Northern companies given the chance to put their case to high-profile investors

THE NORTH’S most innovative high-growth businesses have the chance to pitch to a roomful of London investors.

Entrepreneurs of the North is set up to give businesses the opportunity to travel to London and meet investors who are proactively looking to expand their portfolio. Organised by the North East Innovation SuperNetwork and supported by UK Business Angels Association (UKBAA) and British Business Bank, the process will involve a rigorous selection process based at the Bank of England’s headquarters in London on Wednesday, February 21.

Last year’s event attracted 75 investors ranging from angel investors interested in early-stage ideas through to large international funds and potential deals were identified for many of the companies.

Businesses across all sectors and of any size can apply and must be based in the North-East, North-West, Yorkshire and Humber or Tees Valley.

They must also have reached the second or third stage of finance (looking for £250,000 to £2.5m in equity investment).

The selected 30 entrepreneurs will each have one minute to pitch their business and funding requirements to potential investors.

This will be followed by a networking session to allow investors to speak to businesses in more detail.

Simon Green, CEO at the Innovation SuperNetwork, said: “Entrepreneurs of the North provides a unique platform for investors to come face to face with a large number of exciting businesses all in the space of one afternoon. The North of England has a thriving business community with great potential waiting to be unlocked.”

Companies wishing to be considered to take part in Entrepreneurs of the North 2018 must visit www.supernetwork.org.uk/ entrepreneurs-of-the-north/ to complete the application form by noon on Friday, January 26 and email it to estelle@super network.org.uk.