SME funding to be discussed at special small business academy session

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) small business academy is running a special open to all event on SME Funding.

The event, happening on 27 October from 12.45pm to 1.45pm at STEAMhouse BCU is open to all businesses.

The session is held in response to the frequently asked questions around what support is available and in light of the recent announcements around financial support for SMEs in the region.

It will also aim to dispel some myths about raising finance as an SME and aims to provide clarity and reassurance for business owners that there is help and support available during uncertain times.

It will be delivered by Fiona Latter, Made Smarter programme manager of the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Speaking about the session, she said: “With the recent triple whammy of Brexit, covid and the cost of living crisis, more and more businesses are worried about their financial future.

“Whether you are a start up or an SME, you will require finance at some point. However, there are still several factors to consider about the range of SME funding options.

“SME’s often find it difficult to raise finance for a number of reasons including not having assets on which to secure a loan and banks having risk adverse attitudes to new projects.

“This session aims to break down different finance models available for SME’s in the region to enable business to find the funding it needs to grow, scale and become a sustainable business.”

Jayne Hume, GBCC relationship manager and organiser of Small Business Academy said: “We are really pleased to be running this additional bonus session for the Academy addressing the important and frequently asked topic of how to secure funding and grants to grow a small business and welcome any small business that would like to gain clarity on their funding options.”

STEAMhouse business partnerships manager Sophia Tarr said: “STEAMhouse is delighted to join forces in an exciting collaboration with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for their dynamic Business Academy Sessions. “We're committed to energizing and empowering businesses on their journey to success.”

The GBCC Start up and Small Business Academy offers a business support programme for start-up and small businesses covering business planning, finance marketing, productivity, sales and people. Applications for next cohort will be open in November.

To book a free place at the Funding for SMEs or for more information on the Academy , email Jayne Hume at [email protected]