At the Development Bank of Wales, we provide loans and equity investments to Welsh businesses, or those willing to move here.
Established by the Welsh Government, our aim is to unlock the potential in the Welsh economy by increasing the provision of sustainable, effective finance. Through our work with the business community, we invested £80million during the last financial year, with private sector investment reaching £126million.
Having helped thousands of businesses to secure investments that support their growth journey, here are some things to consider when preparing your business for a funding injection:
- Is a loan the best option or is the business suitable for equity investment?
- Is it only money that you require? Or would you also benefit from the expertise of an investor? Proven industry experience, advocacy and connections may well be just as important as the actual funding.
- How much money do you need? Will the funding cover the full cost of a project or only part of it? Will you be able to combine it with funding from other sources?
- Can you clearly define the business proposition explaining your business strategy and the potential for growth to a potential investor?
The Development Bank offers finance options from £1,000 to £5million+. Whether you’re buying a business, starting your own venture, or looking to grow your market, people or premises, we have funds which can help you.
Start-up loans
We’ve worked closely with hundreds of start-ups, helping them get off the ground and supporting them as they grow and expand.
We offer micro loans of up to £50,000. If you need more, we can also help. We can work with sole traders, small employers and technology start-ups.
To get started, we need to see a business plan to tell us how you plan to use the money. But we work closely with Business Wales who can help to give you access to business support for this.
Funding options for established businesses
We work with companies at all growth stages and offer a range of finance options which work with other providers. You can combine a loan with equity finance or other types of funding, to provide a solution that’s right for you.
Businesses that have been trading for two years or more, can get a fast-track loan. Fast track loans provide a quick cash injection and could help you if you need to fund an unexpected business opportunity, or if you’ve recently secured a large contract for example. For loans up to £10,000 you could get a decision within two working days.
Private investment
For those seeking private investment, we have the biggest angel network in Wales. Angels Invest Wales offers entrepreneurs and businesses access to more than 150 angel investors and syndicates – putting you in touch with the right investor for your business.
As a unique resource for SMEs, we’ve helped thousands of businesses start up, strengthen and grow. One innovative technology business we’ve supported, is transforming the way that clinical trials are conducted by enabling patient data to be collected in real-time using wearable devices and disease-specific mobile apps. Our funding and wider connections enabled it to raise £1.45million to hire key leadership and further develop its products, helping the company to secure new contracts and continue its expansion.
Another business, a specialist mechanic and tyre fitting service, used a six figure loan to support the buy-out the existing partnership and continue the company, helping lay the foundation for ambitious plans for the future of the business.
These are just a few examples. For further details, take a look at our website or call 0800 587 4140.
;
