The North East Fund has proactively supported local SMEs before, during the pandemic and now, as the region navigates its way through a period of economic recovery.
The Fund’s ethos has always been to get behind companies the best way it can, assist with growth opportunities, and provide owners and management teams with the means to access investment and advice when needed the most.
Engagement officers, James Holloway and Andrew Gibson, have, over the last few months, been offering free one-to-one sessions in order for business owners to obtain the correct information as to what financial support is out there and how to access it. This is still available to companies based in Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and County Durham as SMEs across all sectors aim to rebuild, restructure, take advantage of new market opportunities or grow in a changing business landscape.
James explained, “We have seen a significant number of business owners and management teams take up this opportunity and seek our advice as to what loans, grant schemes and financial assistance is out there for them. It is a challenging time for the majority of companies, whether restructuring to survive, adapting their offering or servicing a rapid spike in demand for their products, and we’ve seen this combination across most sectors.
“However, the North East Fund has also helped to secure £10m+ of investment for regional SMEs since the start of lockdown, therefore we’d advise anyone needing support and advice to get in touch.”
Both James and Andrew can also advise on UKwide schemes such as Innovate UK grants and the Future Fund, and are familiar with what is on offer across the whole North East region. Working very closely with local authority economic development teams, support organisations and the wider business community, they have access to information which could prove critical for company owners in an ever changing business environment.
To arrange a virtual one-to-one appointment with North East Fund representatives, please email: James.holloway@northeastfund.org (for Sunderland, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Newcastle-based companies). Andrew.gibson@northeastfund.org (for County Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Newcastle-based companies).
