THE TALKING Since launching just three months ago, one Tees Valley funding consultancy has helped local businesses access nearly £4m-worth of grants. And it's not stopping there.
Nudl, which was set up in March by Shak Asghar, helps businesses cut through red tape to access the cash they need to support their growth. In the three months since its official launch, the nine-strong Nudl team has helped companies to access around £3.9m worth of grant funding, on projects worth a total of £8.4m. “We’ve worked with SMEs across a massive range of fields, including health and wellbeing, digital marketing and construction,” Shak explains. “We’ve helped firms access funding for some amazing projects, including an ultrasound machine, portable accommodation and even a nine-tonne dumper truck. “It just goes to show that the funding is out there, it’s just a matter of knowing where to look – and how to apply.” Shak – who is also a renowned DJ – is passionate about keeping his finger on the pulse of all available opportunities, as well as supporting businesses with applications. He gives the example of Large Capital Grants, which are available, typically for sums from £50,000 of grant monies, although they are often accompanied by a complex application process. Shak says: “They are quite widely available and, in the main, the big difference is the amounts that can be secured to help get an investment or project over the line in order to grow a business. “Naturally, it can be expected that with such significant amounts of money, there will be a corresponding increase in the level of detail required applications, which is where Nudl can help.” With 20 years of experience in business support, Shak has learned that many business owners find the process daunting at any level – which was the key driver in creating Nudl. “What I’ve learned is that many people don’t know about business support and, if they do, they may feel uncomfortable talking to accountants or local authorities. “I think it’s a perception of approachability, as well as the amount of technical jargon thrown around, so we strip all of that out and present it in a simple and friendly way. “What we seem to be hearing is that people really like our fresh approach and proposition, as well as the fact that we have an offering that nobody else has. “So, while this approach was a bit scary to launch initially, it has been received really well and now proven can be built upon.” Which is just what Nudl is doing; the company has just taken on a growth consultant and is currently recruiting for a relationship manager. Geographically, the team covers from Yorkshire to the Scottish border, with offices in Newcastle and Hull ready to be utilised for further growth and plans to be in 10 regions by end of its first year. While Nudl is so far clearly succeeding in its aim to put the fun into funding, what advice would Shak give to businesses who are still unsure? “It’s important to pick someone you feel comfortable working with and don’t be scared to be completely open as there is no such thing as a silly question,” he said. “But most importantly, relax and have fun with it – it’s all about using your Nudl!”
