Practical guidance on investment readiness, funding opportunities and how to make a compelling case to lenders, investors and grant bodies.

Growth costs money, whether you need investment to hire your next employee, upgrade your equipment, launch a new product or simply smooth out the peaks and troughs of cash flow, access to the right finance at the right time can be the difference between a business that grows and one that stands still.

The challenge most businesses face isn't a shortage of funding options. It's knowing which ones are right for them, whether they're actually ready to apply, and how to make the strongest possible case. Walk in unprepared, and even a strong business can be turned away.

This fully funded session cuts through the complexity. You'll hear from people who know the funding landscape in Tees Valley inside out, understand exactly what funders are looking for, and leave with a clear view of what you need to do next, whether that's a grant, a loan, equity investment or something else entirely.

What you'll take away

An honest assessment of your current investment readiness

A clear overview of the funding landscape available to Tees Valley businesses right now

Practical guidance on how to strengthen your application before you submit it

The questions funders will ask and how to answer them confidently

Direct connections to relevant support, advisors and funding pathways

Who this is for?

Businesses actively seeking growth funding

Those planning capital investment in the next 12 months

Owners who’ve been turned down before and don’t know why

Businesses navigating cash flow challenges alongside growth ambitions

📅 Date: 03 September 2026 | ⏰ Time: 09:30 - 16:00 | 📍 Location: Stockton-on-Tees Employment & Training Hub, Wellington Square, Stockon, TS18 1RH | 👥 Facilitator: Lifted Ventures

This session is delivered by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, with places fully funded for eligible participants across Tees Valley (Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees) through the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Note: By signing up you are giving Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council permission to share your details with Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), our Local Authority partners and Lifted Ventures, to support with the organisation and delivery of these events. Your details will not be used for marketing purposes.

Description supplied by the event organiser.