Accessing finance remains one of the biggest hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), yet it’s also one of the most crucial steps toward growth, innovation, and long-term resilience. With over 30,000 SMEs in Gloucestershire alone, and 99.05% of UK businesses falling into this category, the need for clear, accessible financial guidance has never been greater.

To support local businesses in navigating the complex world of funding, The Growth Hub is teaming up with Gloucestershire County Council’s Banking and Finance Business Group to deliver a two-part event series: Unlocking Business Finance.

This initiative is designed to help entrepreneurs, start-ups, and SMEs understand their options, build a compelling Business Plan, and connect directly with funders who are actively seeking to invest in Gloucestershire’s business community.

What will I Learn?

A strong Business Plan is the foundation of any successful funding application. Through two focused sessions, this event series offers:

Session One: Grants, Loans & Equity – Completed
Learn about the different types of funding available, how to prepare a persuasive Business Plan, and get practical advice to kickstart your funding journey.

Session Two: Meet the Funders – Wednesday 26 November | 10:00am – 11:30am

  • Pitch your business case to real investors
  • Receive expert feedback and guidance
  • Build valuable connections to move your idea forward

Please note: Attendance at Session One and creation of a Business Plan are required to participate in Session Two.

Who Should Attend?

  • Entrepreneurs and start-ups
  • Growing businesses seeking funding
  • Anyone looking to demystify business finance

Event Accessibility

The Growth Hub is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. Please contact The Growth Hub Cirencester team on cirencester@thegrowthhub.biz or call 01285 889850 to request disability accommodations. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs so we request you contact us at least five working days before the event whenever possible.

How to Book

If you’re having difficulty signing up, it’s likely that the details you are trying to register with were initially entered prior to the launch of our new website in April 2024. You will therefore need to re-register for a new account, before booking a place to attend an event. If you are still having problems, please get in touch with a member of the Growth Hub team who will be happy to help: talktous@thegrowthhub.biz