TENDER OPPORTUNITY: ACCESS TO FINANCE/RAISING FINANCE SERVICE PROCUREMENT

Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has for over the last ten years ran business support activity through Cumbria Business Growth Hub. Cumbria Business Growth Hub now has a need to strengthen its existing offering by adding an Access to Finance offer to our current suite of activities. We are looking to offer bespoke, flexible and tailored support, signposting to products and providers which will unlock business growth. Support will be offered to established businesses as well as start-ups through Cumbria Business Growth Hub and our Business Start-Up Support programme. We're looking for someone who can deliver an experienced and knowledgeable Access to Finance service including: • 1-2-1 support to assess financial position and funding requirements • 1-2-1 support to develop business plan and financial forecasts • 1-2-1 support to become investment ready including developing the investment proposition • 1-2-1 support to identify the most relevant sources of funding and assisting in discussions with potential investors • Financial planning and help to navigate the latest funding channels • Pitch & presentation development for investment opportunities including an initial elevator pitch • Signposting and introductions including micro fund, start-up loan, bank funding, large debt financing, grant funding, R&D and equity finance • Support in engaging with finance providers and providing relevant information through Cumbria Business Growth Hub channels Your submission should cover as a minimum: • At least 5 years experience of raising finance including external markets • Proven track record of developing and understanding business plans • Understanding and articulation of business objectives - short/medium/long • Understanding of management structures, financial cashflow and financial sensitivities • Ability to develop and interpret cashflow forecast, profit & loss and balance sheet • Proven track record of raising finance which can be demonstrated • Demonstration of links to various A2F provider organisations • CV detailing relevant qualifications and experience including examples of similar work and at least two relevant referees • Overall knowledge of the funding/finance landscape • Ability to engage effectively with finance providers and clients • Areas of the county you are able to cover (full coverage required) • Hourly rate • If applying to deliver support under the BSUS programme you need to demonstrate start-up experience and understanding of this area

Submissions should be sent by email to Lesley Robinson [email protected] marked 'Confidential - Tender Enclosed'

Additional information: Submissions must be submitted by email to Lesley Robinson, Business Support Manager Manager, [email protected] by no later than 9am on 22nd April 2022.

Any tender received after the deadline will not be scored.