'Don't miss chance of vital funding in Preston'

Funding Circle has helped to create 1,850 jobs in Lancashire and sustained £100m of value added to the economy.

Now it has joined forces with Enterprise Nation to give small businesses in Preston the tools and networks they need to support their growth.

And Chorley businesswman Lisa Thomason has urged firms to go along to the event tonight from 6pm at Society 1 in Cross Street, Preston.

Preston was recently named the UK’s “most improved” city for economic growth, and small businesses play a crucial role within this.

Last year, a total of 114 jobs were created and sustained as a result of loans accessed through Funding Circle, contributing £6million of added value to the local economy.

In addition, 5,227 jobs were created and sustained across the North West.

Funding Circle says that highlights the critical role that non-bank sources of finance play in underpinning the growth of small businesses across the region.

Speaking at the event will be Chorley-based Lisa, founder of WooCreative, a commercial graphics company.

It was established in Lancashire in 1999 and now serves clients across the country.

To help upgrade her systems, buy equipment and reduce her reliance on costly suppliers, Lisa has accessed finance through Funding Circle twice since July 2016.

Lisa said: “Looking around Preston, it’s fantastic to see small, local businesses like ours flourishing.

“With the help from platforms like Funding Circle and Enterprise Nation, we’re fostering a network where we can enhance our support for each other through sharing the lessons we’ve learned in business.

“The fast and helpful support from Funding Circle over the years has allowed me to further grow my business and increase what I can deliver to my clients.”