A recent report by Beauhurst highlights a concerning trend in the UK's startup and scale-up landscape. Investment levels have dropped due to factors like inflation and fluctuating interest rates, making it harder for businesses to secure funding. Although the number of investment deals only dipped by 7%, the total investment amount plummeted by 16% in 2022. London-based companies continued to dominate the funding landscape, receiving a significant 69% of investments.
Regional Funding Disparities
A stark regional disparity is evident, with the South of England securing a substantial 72% of investments, while regions like the North received just 12%. Despite this, some areas outside of London, such as Yorkshire and The Humber and the South West, saw an uptick in funding activity, hinting at potential growth opportunities beyond the capital.
The Challenge of Access to Finance
This funding landscape poses challenges for start-ups and early-stage businesses looking to secure capital. With changing investor preferences, a focus on sectors, impact investments, and sustainable practices, access to finance programs must adapt and stay aligned with market dynamics.
Knocu Ventures - A Supportive Partner for FSB Members
Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, Knocu Ventures is partnering with FSB to improve access to finance for early-stage businesses, particularly outside London. Their tailored programs aim to fill the crucial gap in funding availability for start-ups and early-stage businesses.
The Demand for Early-Stage Capital
There is a growing demand for early-stage and innovation-led capital, especially among university spin-out organizations and innovative businesses. To encourage businesses to be more ambitious in their funding approaches, they need to be well-prepared to present their business case effectively. Creating an accessible access-to-finance ecosystem is vital, as many organizations struggle with navigating the complex finance landscape.
Welcome to Knocu Ventures
Knocu Ventures, operating under Knocu Limited, offers a comprehensive suite of services to support businesses at any stage of their journey. Their goal is to empower founders and executive teams with the tools, strategies, and connections needed to secure investment and foster remarkable growth.
The Knocu Investor Readiness Programme
Their team, with over 100 years of combined experience in access to finance and investment, brings a wealth of knowledge spanning from start-ups to private equity and exit strategies. The Programme includes:
• Proven Success: Developed by industry experts, our program offers top-notch guidance and support throughout your business journey.
• Tailored Support: Our program adapts to your unique requirements, whether you seek equity investments, loans, grants, or blended financing options.
• Exceptional Mentorship: Learn from seasoned mentors, coaches, and investors with a track record of driving business success.
• Strategic Workshops: Interactive workshops cover essential topics in business, innovation, leadership, and emotional intelligence.
• Investor Network: Gain access to our extensive investor network, connecting your business with potential investors eager to add you to their portfolios.
• ESG Principles: Our program embeds Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices to drive sustainable growth and responsible business practices.
Programme Details
Day 1-4: Coaching, Mentoring, and Support Programme
• Personalized coaching, mentoring, and support.
• Empower founders to become effective commercial leaders.
• Enhance leadership skills, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• CEO Readiness Assessment for sustained growth.
• Start-up workshops: Empowering Entrepreneurs for Success.
Day 5: Investor Readiness Programme
• Equip businesses with the knowledge and skills to confidently present to potential investors.
• Craft compelling pitch decks.
• Navigate investor due diligence.
Day 6: Access to Finance
• Explore financing options tailored to business needs.
• Introduction to investment for equity, bank loans, grants, and blended finance.
Day 7: Investment Readiness and Documentation
• Ensure investment readiness.
• Prepare investor due diligence documentation.
• Develop exit and business strategies.
Day 8: Final Day
• Pitch Event for founders to present to the Knocu Ventures investment team and network.
• Gain real-world experience and feedback.
Meet the Leadership Team
• Jordan Dargue - Founder: A visionary entrepreneur with a proven track record in early-stage investments and leading multi-million equity-based investment rounds.
• Kate Cooper-Fay - Founder: The Most Influential CEO of 2022, renowned for driving sustainable business practices and exceptional results in global organizations.
Conclusion
Knocu Ventures' programs are a vital step towards addressing the challenges faced by early-stage businesses in accessing finance outside of London. Our comprehensive program is designed to empower founders, bridging the investment gap and supporting businesses on their journey to securing funding and achieving remarkable growth. We are committed to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship across the UK's diverse regions, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and thriving business ecosystem.