These are just some of the funds and investors that might be able to give your business a helping hand. 

Seed and early-stage funding:

Northwest Business Angels is a scheme that aims to connect young and growing companies with investors who are actively looking for opportunities in the region. Investment of between £10,000 and £500,000 is available, and almost half of those selected to present to the network are able to raise investment. 

Start Up Loans is a government scheme which provides funding and support for individuals looking to start or grow a business in the UK.

Next stage follow on funding:

Innovate UK offers government funding for UK-based businesses that want to research and develop a process, product or service, test their innovation ideas and collaborate with other organisations. 

Arts Council England offers funding to those who can help it achieve its mission of great art and culture for everyone.  

Creative England supports and invests in digital creative companies in England, outside of Greater London. 

Business Growth Fund (BGF) is the UK and Ireland's most active investor in growing businesses, and invests in companies in the early and growth stages, as well as in listed businesses. 

Eden Ventures invests in high-growth tech companies in Europe.

Beringea offers funding for businesses in growth areas.

Palatine is a private equity business that wants to back entrepreneurs. 

Northedge Capital invests in ambitious business and management teams with the potential to shape global markets from regional powerhouses. 

ECI Partners invests in medium-sized UK growth businesses. 

NVM primarily targets small management buy-outs and growth investment in different areas of the UK. 

Seneca Partners advises and invests in the UK's "brightest" SMEs.

Who else should be on this list? Let us know by contacting [email protected].