MAJOR FUNDING MILESTONE FOR ROSEBUD FINANCE

Fund manager at Rosebud Finance Jonathan Nelson, has expressed admiration for the "variety of brilliant businesses" in Lancashire after the company achieved a key funding target. During the fiscal year beginning 1 July 2022, the alternative lender has provided £1 million to 14 enterprises across the 12 districts of Lancashire. Rosebud's loan offering, managed via GC Business Finance, range in size from £10,000 to £300,000, with a goal of producing more than 100 jobs each year. Its investment areas include aerospace, advanced manufacturing, digital and creative, energy and environmental, health innovation, and financial and professional services. The team has £1.5 million of loans underway, a 158.6 percent rise in loans compared to the same period a year ago.

Jonathan Nelson, fund manager, said: "From high-end restaurants to home security providers, children's play centres and IT recycling firms, there's no end to the variety of brilliant businesses across Lancashire.

"We are proud to play our part in supporting the business ecosystem and helping to drive wider economic growth. For some businesses, it is increasingly difficult to access mainstream funding. That's where we step in, providing support to build confidence and unlock business potential."

Amin Vepari, programme manager for Rosebud, added: "Playing a vital role in boosting the Lancashire economy, by creating jobs and supporting the growth ambitions of some of our most exciting businesses, Rosebud is an essential service both for business owners, and for the wider Lancashire community.

"This milestone is a signifier of the success of the fund, and the year-on-year growth is evidence that Rosebud will continue to support business owners when mainstream funding may not be an option."