New online funding resource for Devon businesses

Businesses in Devon and Somerset are set to receive improved access to funding opportunities, guidance, best practice and finance support thanks to a new project launched by the Heart of the South West LEP.

Access to Finance SW is a free community platform for growing businesses in the Heart of the South West region and is powered by Exeter-based Tech South West.

From regular business mee tups to ‘ask the expert’ sessions, any business can join for free, connect with and learn from other businesses and access a range of funding and finance expertise covering equity, non-dilutive funding, loans and debt, along with financial planning, grant opportunities and more.

Karl Tucker, Chair of the Heart of the South West LEP, said: "Access to Finance SW is a fantastic tool to help leaders of small and medium-sized businesses get the funding and finance expertise they need. 

“It helps businesses connect with and learn from other successful business leaders, along with funding and finance experts, ask questions, gather information, connect and progress their business. You could be a startup, established company, or a community interest company or social enterprise. It’s a dynamic marketplace of advice and support and we are delighted to help fund this vital platform. I’m convinced it will help the small business community to achieve their goals and enhance their positive impact on the South West and beyond.”

The platform makes it easier for business leaders across all sectors to access funding news and opportunities, gain an understanding of the different types of finance available and how to access them, and build a network of contacts that can support their growth journey.

Access to Finance SW is completely sector-agnostic and open to businesses working in all sectors including retail, hospitality, agriculture, technology, professional services, logistics, manufacturing and more.

As part of the platform’s launch week, business leaders and finance professionals in the region are invited to an online event this Wednesday 20 September, 9.30-10.30am, to learn more about the new South West Investment Fund and the opportunities it provides. The event will include a discussion and Q&A with fund managers involved with the deployment of the fund, including FW Capital, Maven Capital Partners and The FSE Group. 

The event is free to join by signing up to the community’s online platform at accesstofinancesw.co.uk

The project has been developed with support from Tech South West, a support network for technology companies in the South West, and other stakeholders.