Investment help offer to small firms

Small firms and start-up businesses in Sunderland are being urged to consider seeking help from a support fund.

The North East Fund has completed investments in 30 city-based companies – helping them raise approximately £12m in funding.

With new development projects like Sunderland Riverside, the emerging central business district at St Mary’s Boulevard and Seaburn with new commercial and hospitality venues, the Fund anticipates more investments in the near future.

James Holloway of the North East Fund, said: “We are keen to support Wearside-based SMEs.

“Sunderland is a strategic location and these new projects also provide a great opportunity for much smaller, community-based enterprises to become part of a growing economy, from sole traders to family-run businesses developing innovative technologies and products.”

He added: “We’re offering free confidential and no obligation 1-2-1 sessions for any business owners who would like to discuss their requirements.

“These sessions are held daily and we urge anyone in a such a position to book a time slot.”

The sessions are held weekdays between 9am and 5pm and are available by phone, videoconference, or in person once Government Covid-19 guidelines allow.

SME wishing to book a session can contact James Holloway at the North East Fund on 07395 791 653, or by email at James.holloway@northeastfund.org or go to www.northeastfund.org