Helping businesses secure investment

Image: Cllr George Hayes (left) with local business people at the launch of Access2Finance

Cheshire East Council’s Skills and Growth Company has established a dedicated service for local businesses looking to secure financial support and unlock growth.

The arms-length company’s new offering, Access2Finance, was launched in response to a council-commissioned survey which found that 28% of businesses in the area said not accessing finance was holding them back.

According to 40% of respondents, cash flow problems are hampering their expansion plans.

Access2Finance is a bespoke service that will ensure enterprises are “investment ready”, according to the Skills and Growth Company.

The aim is to help businesses navigate the many sources of finance available, including grants, loans and equity.

It could include alternative finance such as the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

Skills and Growth Company chairman Cllr George Hayes said: “The Access2Finance service will provide a much-needed, impartial and personalised approach to ensuring businesses can source the right investment, at the right time, in order to fund their growth aspirations.”