New Investment Readiness initiative proving to be a big hit with businesses

Published: 20 March 2024

One of the many challenges for any entrepreneur, start-up business or established business, is securing the capital financing that enables them to grow and thrive. The Investment Readiness programme works with both new and established companies who want to learn about what is right financially for their business, as well as high growth companies looking to raise investment.

Aiming to provide businesses, who want to grow and expand, with independent advice and expertise in how best to secure external finance – whether be that debt, equity or other sources, the locally based Investment Readiness delivery teams provide education before intervention.

Mobilised in October last year, the programme is part of Business Growth West Midlands' suite of business enhancement opportunities, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice and C&W Business Solutions, and has already engaged and supported more than 250 businesses. The programme is fully funded, meaning businesses do not pay towards the service.

Photo of participants learning at an investment workshop

Commenting on their experience, Vivean Pomell from Learn With Lolonyo stated, “These sessions have been invaluable. The peer and mentoring support has been very helpful. I have gained a greater understanding of access to funding and the pitch process. This has been a timely input as this knowledge will greatly help to bring businesses to the next level.”

Another comment from Gilbert Pomell at Logos West Midlands CIC said, “The programme content, pace, relevance and delivery was excellent. I have increased my knowledge regarding how best to 'scale-up' the business whilst finding ways to maintain its sustainability.”

There are two stages of support available; Stage 1 includes business engagement, information and advice sessions delivered through local workshop sessions by a team of Business Finance Specialists. Stage 2 provides a more in-depth approach, providing mentoring support to develop businesses' investment pitches.

Across both stages, the programme also introduces business owners to a host of specialists, acting as a connector for the business finance ecosystem and the delivery team provide advice and guidance, working with ambitious businesses on a one-to-one basis.

Programme Manager Heather Coupland from Oxford Innovation Advice commented, “This programme has been designed to not preach in front of a presentation, but rolling up our sleeves alongside business owners and getting them financially fit.

“The main benefit is to improve companies' financial skills and help them to become investment ready. We are positive that this tailored approach will continue to bring sustainable and positive results for SMEs and the economic growth of the West Midlands.”

The Investment Readiness programme brings together the ecosystem of support from national, regional and local banks, grant funding pots, loan providers, angel networks, investment opportunities and more.