Launched ahead of a free business event next month, the new digital resource guides Midlands businesses to sources of funding from six leading regional finance providers, including Chamber members BCRS Business Loans and UKSE, each experienced and regionally focused with a shared understanding of the intricacies of running and scaling a business.
As well as explaining the opportunities available to businesses, the website summarises the distinct offerings from each of the finance providers, encouraging them to visit each funder website to find out more about their support.
Midlands SME Finance is a group effort bringing together community development financial institutions ART Business Loans, BCRS Business Loans and Coventry & Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust alongside invoice finance lender FlexABL and community-based lenders UKSE and Frontier Development Capital.
Rather than operating as a formal legal entity the group is a collaboration working to a simple mission: to make it easier for Midlands businesses and entrepreneurs to grow, thrive and achieve their ambitions.
The website explains how the six finance providers all offer debt finance through a relationship-based approach, with particular emphasis on supporting economic growth in disadvantaged areas across the West Midlands region.
Each provider specialises in lending to businesses unable to secure finance from traditional high street sources.
The website launch coincides with the group's upcoming 'Funding without the jargon' event at the Black Country Living Museum on October 7 from 10.30am to 1.30pm, which will feature an interactive panel discussion with all six finance providers.
Businesses can register to attend the free event, which will help small companies cut through the jargon to get a clear picture of the funding available for Midlands businesses as well as an understanding of the criteria used by lenders when deciding who to back.
The session will explain how to prepare so your business is finance-ready and bust common myths about funding.
The event, held in association with British Business Bank as part of Business Finance Week, which helps smaller businesses learn about the different finance options available, will include networking opportunities and complimentary refreshments.
Businesses planning to grow, invest in new opportunities, or simply understand their funding options are encouraged to attend.
Paul Stokes of FlexABL said: "Our new website reflects our commitment to cutting through complexity and connecting businesses with the right funding solutions. It is designed to be the first port of call for any Midlands business exploring their finance options."
Steve Walker, Chief Executive of ART Business Loans, commented: "This digital platform represents our shared vision of making business finance truly accessible. The website provides clear pathways to funding while our upcoming event offers face-to-face interaction with decision-makers."
Stephen Deakin, Chief Executive of Wolverhampton-based BCRS Business Loans, said: "The website embodies our collaborative approach to supporting regional economic growth. It is a resource that businesses can use at any time to understand their funding landscape and prepare for their growth journey."
Sheridan Sulskis, CEO of Coventry & Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust, added: "With the October 7 event coming up, this signposting platform fills a crucial gap in the market. Many businesses do not know where to start when seeking alternative funding so our website provides that essential first step and ongoing guidance."
Andy Green, Deputy Fund Principal at Frontier Development Capital, said: "The website demonstrates our collective commitment to transparency in business finance. It is particularly valuable for businesses in disadvantaged areas who may have struggled with traditional funding routes."
Steve Grice, Area Manager Midlands for UKSE, commented: "This digital resource complements our relationship-based approach perfectly. Businesses can explore their options online and then connect with us directly at events like our October 7 session to discuss their specific needs."
