Shak Asghar knew from experience that accessing funding could be difficult and, at times, even unpleasant - and he wanted to make a change.
When Shak launched Nudl in March 2021 with colleague Zara Ford, his intention was clear – to put the fun into helping firms secure financial support. And known for its quirky branding and approach to breaking down barriers when it comes to growth plans, the North East funding consultancy has gone above and beyond in its first six months.
After investing in its own future and expanding to a team of eight, Nudl has continued to work with clients from a range of sectors to secure somewhere in the region of £15-20m of investment to the UK economy. The company, which has offices in Newcastle, Hull and Middlesbrough, offers a variety of services centred around business growth; consultancy, investment decks, funding application support, in-depth financial planning, cashflow forecasting and more.
Chief operations officer Annmarie Antunes, who joined the team in May, says: “We are a helping hand, there to provide one-to-one support for local people and the local area. “It’s the human approach that we add. You end up with a portfolio of business reports, and we highlight why it is important. You won’t get very far seeking funding if you haven’t got a plan.”
Nudl’s expertise and unique approach has ensured massive steps have been taken already, while also making clients comfortable along the way.
CEO Shak says: “Most people are setting up a business because they are good at it. But I might be a good electrician, it doesn’t make me a good businessperson. We apply business knowledge and the supportive landscape. “If you need to raise investment for your company, we will put the documentation together to help you unlock that, and help you get those thoughts you need to get where you want to be.
Nudl has recently been working with a Middlesbrough construction company, trading nationally, on a project that is at the cutting edge of research and development. Shak explains: “We have previously helped this business to secure funding, and we’re now utilising our networks and expertise to help them set up a research and development programme, in collaboration with various other organisations and international investors.
“We have regular discussions with contacts in the United States, Middle East, Europe – we have conversations going on all over. We are working with strategic consultancy, funding and some of those we are working to bring to the Tees Valley. As well as working with private companies, Nudl has also developed strong links with the public sector through its consultancy work. Shak says: “We’ve worked with local authorities and combined authorities to help design different support mechanisms. Ultimately, we hope to shape and influence how grant funding is distributed.”
While his 15 years’ experience in the sector have taken him to various places, Shak’s Teesside roots mean this is an area he is keen to develop as much as he can. “We are North Easterners ourselves, so we like to promote the region as a potential destination to invest in. “It has economic benefits to the wider region and helps us in general if we get more businesses in this area.
“The North has a place in our heart, which is why we’ll always fly the flag.”
