Investors' Conference Is 'Just Capital'

A major event is to take place later this month that will see Irish businesses briefed on funds of as much as £275m from investors.

The Stormont Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has just launched InterTradeIreland's ninth Venture Capital Conference, to be held in Belfast's Waterfront Hall on Wednesday, 26 May.

It will bring investors - who together can access over £275m worth of funds - together with entrepreneurs seeking finance.

The conference will showcase the current sources of equity capital available from various venture capital funds, private investors and business angel networks that have funds to invest in early stage, high potential companies.

Delegates will also have the chance to hear from other companies that have successfully secured equity investment, learn what investors are looking for and get practical advice on how to improve their business plan.

Over 250 delegates have already registered to attend the conference, which is supported by the Northern Bank as principal sponsor and Crescent Capital, Kernal Capital and Tughans Solicitors as associate sponsors.

Arlene Foster said: "High growth businesses are a key driver of growth, not just because they generate significant employment, but also because their dynamism stimulates competition and innovation throughout the economy as a whole."

At the launch of the event, InterTradeIreland's Director of Programmes and Business Services, Margaret Hearty also said: "Raising new equity investment can be tough, particularly for those companies in their early stages of development.

"InterTradeIreland's range of equity supports such as the Venture Capital Conference aims to help companies in becoming investor ready and to network with potential investors."

Northern Bank's Head of Corporate Acquisition, Ivan McMinn said: "We are delighted to support this important conference, which comes at a challenging time for businesses across the island."

(BMcC/GK)