Conference to address business development and growth with key UK experts

10/10/06

The ambitions of new and existing Welsh companies to grow can often be restrained through the need to identify and raise the necessary funding. But some of the UK’s leading business experts will this month tackle the issue head-on during a major conference and exhibition at the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport.

Experts including Doug Richards, founder and Chairman of Library House and a former Dragon in the BBC’s Dragon’s Den programme; Sir Digby Jones, former Chief Executive of the CBI; John Bates, Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at the London Business School; and Sally Preston, founder of Babylicious, will focus on key issues faced by businesses seeking growth during the Financing Growth Conference, organised by Finance Wales, on the 26th October 2006.

During the conference, Andrew Davies, Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Networks, will also highlight the Welsh Assembly Government’s commitment to Welsh businesses when he is interviewed by BBC News journalist and presenter, Peter Sissons, who will Chair the day-long conference and exhibition.

Mr Davies said: “The Financing Growth Conference is an ideal opportunity to learn more about finance and investment opportunities, as well as hearing from some well-known business people who have ‘been there and done it’. It will provide an insight into the best way for a business to grow based on the right economic conditions, appropriate level of support, as well as sound financial investment.”

“This is a unique opportunity that will bring a range of people together under one roof to discuss and identify issues and solutions.”

Finance Wales, the organisation created by the Welsh Assembly Government to provide commercial funding to Welsh businesses, has organised the conference with aim of helping the burgeoning number of businesses requiring private investment to grow but unsure about how to move forward.

Peter Wright, Investment Director of Finance Wales, said: “The initial development of any business is often full of difficulties, much of which relates to finance and investment issues. The Financing Growth Conference will address these and provide advice that relates directly to entrepreneurs and businesses developing their businesses.

“We want to encourage an ambition and culture with Welsh SME’s to maximise growth opportunities. Finance Wales is committed to this and we have a major role to play in attracting and providing private equity investment into Welsh businesses and subsequently into the Welsh economy.”

Barclays, PricewaterhouseCoopers and M&A magazine are the lead sponsors of the conference. Other sponsors include Brewin Dolphin Securities and the London Stock Exchange.

The conference, which begins at 8.15am, will include an exhibition and networking opportunities throughout the day before concluding at 5pm. It will be followed by the Financing Growth Gala Dinner, a celebration of the achievements of the 50 fastest growing companies in Wales.