Angels encouraged to spread their wings in Kent
20 October 2009
This month saw the successful launch of a new Kent-based business angel network at Maidstone Studios. Run by regional funding organisation Finance South East the Kent Investment Club (KIC) aims to raise awareness of business angel investing across the county and encourage high net worth individuals to consider investments in small exciting businesses.
Almost 100 guests were introduced to the Kent Investment Club and the opportunities it will offer them by Sally Goodsell, CEO of Finance South East. She had this to say:
“We have high hopes for the Kent Investment Club and are excited by the prospect of successful business people using their wealth and expertise to help fund businesses and entrepreneurs with great ideas. Kent needs more people like this and this launch event is just the beginning of what we hope will be dramatically increased business angel activity in the county.”
The club is funded by Kent County Council and their Chief Executive, Peter Gilroy was present to talk about the ambitions for the region:
“Kent needs growing companies that can compete with the best in the world and fly the flag for the county as the place for investment. Bringing together Kent private investors like this presents a great opportunity for Kent businesses. If they have the aspiration and determination to grow, the Kent Investment Club will have the support and expertise available to help them to find the right investment partners. I especially want to see young businesspeople take advantage of this.”
The British Business Angels Association (BBAA) has also shown their support for this new initiative. Chairman Anthony Clarke added:
“Business angels are the most significant source of investment in early stage and high risk companies, bringing both finance and business building skills. The BBAA is delighted to support the launch of the Kent Investment Club to attract new and exciting angel investors to support local businesses in Kent.”
Following its successful launch the Kent Investment Club will now provide comprehensive support to first time and experienced investors with a programme of training and development which will focus on the opportunities and challenges of investing in this market.
The first meeting of the KIC will take place in Maidstone on Tuesday 10 November. For more information contact Florian Schumacher, florian.schumacher@financesoutheast.com, 01276 607307 or visit www.financesoutheast.com
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