We want to help risk takers succeed
THE North East Cheshire Business Awards celebrate the best in business across Macclesfield and East Cheshire, and take place for the sixth time in November.
This year there are 11 categories open to the region’s businesses, with entries welcome from all businesses regardless of size – you just have to get your nominations in before the deadline of September 30.
As part of our coverage of the area’s biggest celebration of local enterprise, the Express is talking to the category sponsors each week to see why they are supporting the event.
This week we talk to Gary Cain, director and co-owner of Reach Com- mercial Finance, which is part of the Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group.
Gary leads a 10-strong team in the North West who are known and trusted experts in commercial finance brokerage. He has more than 15 years’ experience in the commercial finance arena and his team provides customers with access to a plethora of funding options and other solutions to support their businesses, whether they are looking to raise start-up finance, to fund the next stage of growth or to help them through a difficult period.
Gary set up a company called Pathstone Finance in 2009, then joined forces with Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group in 2014 and rebranded the business as Reach Commercial Finance.
Which award are you sponsoring?
Reach Commercial Finance are representing Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group, which is sponsoring the NECBA Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Why have you got involved in the business awards?
This is our first year of sponsorship and we are delighted to be joining a very successful scheme that seeks to find and reward up-and-coming businesses across North East Cheshire.
This is a prime area of focus for us this year so we have got involved to introduce ourselves to new SMEs operating in the region and to help educate business owners on how best to source and manage finance solutions at the right time to drive growth.
Why did you choose to sponsor that particular award?
Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of business communities at all levels, challenging the status quo, taking calculated risks and often changing the way we view the world. These are exciting businesses to be alongside and have needs for soundly-funded business growth plans which we can help with.
Any award scheme which brings these entrepreneurs into the limelight and gives them a chance to celebrate their achievements – and of course create employment opportunities for others – needs supporting in our view.
Why is East Cheshire such a great place to do business?
Although not often in the headlines, East Cheshire is a key part of the Northern Powerhouse in terms of business growth and employment, as well as having a strong economy and many thriving businesses through inward investment and business support. It’s a good place to base a business and for business owners to live. That makes a difference.
What is your best piece of business advice?
To believe in yourself and not be afraid to listen to the advice of others (provided they know more than you!). The business awards provide a great platform to reinforce self-belief by acknowledging great progress to date and introduce businesses to commercial finance experts like Reach who can really help move a business forward.