Support scheme for tech start-ups

A GROWTH programme has opened for applications from South West-based tech startups to benefit from advice from successful entrepreneurs in the region.

Loop was launched last year by a group of Bristol-based organisations to offer tech business founders practical advice from local experts across a range of business services, including product development, marketing, PR, accounting and finance, grants and investment.

The initiative’s founders, including recruitment company Adlib and accountancy firm Affecton, are seeking to help tech startup owners who are struggling with the challenge of setting up a business and allow them more opportunity to focus on the product or service they have created. Applicants for this year’s programme will be offered 12 sessions run over six months with experts offering advice that would normally be valued at more than £10,000.

The adviser panel will feature entrepreneurs from the scheme’s founder businesses, including software company Cookies HQ, PR firm Purplefish and design agency Sim7.

Roy Millman, founder of Affecton, said: “We are delighted to build on the success of Loop 2020 and the array of support for tech startups in Bristol.”

Joanna Randall, founder and managing director of Purplefish, added: “The 2020 initiative proved very successful and we are seeing many of the participants launching their businesses across a range of sectors. It’s been great to follow their journeys and offer practical guidance and support as an adviser.”

Applications for the 2021 Loop Programme will close on Friday, May 21. There is an initial participation charge of £195 to cover direct out-of-pocket costs.