Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is calling on local businesses, that are looking to raise equity investment, to get in touch. The LEP is partnering with Dorset-based funding specialist, Focused For Business, to offer heavily subsidised places on their Funding Accelerator programme starting in January 2024.
The tailored 3-month online programme supports startups in preparing and gaining feedback on all their investment documents, including pitch decks, financial forecast and business valuation. Participants learn how to develop and run a funding campaign, including how to identify and pitch to the right investors, and receive an investor “hit list”. They also gain invaluable insights into selecting investors, negotiating the terms based on evidence and benchmarking and banking the cash.
Dorset LEP is heavily subsidising the online accelerator programme, paying two thirds of the total £3,000 fee per business. Successful applicants will need to fund the remaining £1000 +VAT themselves.
Funded places are limited and, as the programme starts in January 2024, businesses interested in joining are encouraged to apply immediately to confirm their eligibility, by completing the Startup Investment Scorecard, which quickly and easily assesses how “investment ready” their business is, highlighting where they need support. Only businesses that apply and receive confirmation of their acceptance onto the programme will receive the part-funding.
Any questions about the Funding Accelerator programme should be directed by email to Funding@Focusedforbusiness.com