Desperately Seeking Finance 2

22 Apr 2008
18.15 - 21.00
Venue:
British Library, 96 Euston Road
London
NW1 2DBFind on Google maps

You have a great business idea. You have the passion and determination to turn it into a real business. You've done your market research. Your business plan is in place. Now it's time to tackle that crucial question: how do you finance your new business?

The funding choices that face aspiring entrepreneurs can be bewildering. Bank loans, private investment from business angels, venture capital, friends and family, all can be a source of finance for start-ups.

Even if you believe you can raise finance, other key issues arise: should you give away equity in your business? If so, how much is appropriate? Should you offer personal guarantees against your loans?

The decisions you take could make the difference between success and failure.

For this unique event the British Library brings together four leading business advisers who will reveal how to find sources of finance from the public and private sectors. The audience will have the opportunity not only to learn from the panel's experience, but also to put their own questions to our experts.

As part of this, three budding entrepreneurs will make a Dragons' Den style pitch to illustrate the dos and don'ts of raising finance.

Your panel of experts

Doug Richard is the founder and chairman of Library House and one of the original Dragons in the BBC 2's Dragons' Den. An experienced entrepreneur and investor in the technology and software sectors, both in the US and in the UK, Doug is highly respected for his no nonsense style and understanding of the secrets of raising finance for new businesses.

Julie Meyer is the founder of Ariadne Capital, the investment & advisory firm, which specialises in new, cutting-edge businesses in the technology sector. Julie was the founder of First Tuesday, the hugely successful internet networking group that defined the dot-com era. Today she is one of the best-connected women in the UK and has a keen eye for the next big thing in business.

David Sullivan is financial relationship manager at the London Development Agency and a highly experienced banker. During his career, he has looked after a variety of customers including small and medium-sized enterprises. David joined Business Link for London in 2003 as a member of its Access to Finance programme, which transferred to the London Development Agency in October 2006.

Noel Quinn is HSBC's head of commercial finance, Europe, making him one of Europe 's top bankers for small businesses. He has many years experience of helping start-up businesses to raise finance. Noel has held a range of positions at HSBC in the UK and US since he joined "the world's local bank" in 2000.

Moderator

Matthew Rock is founder-editor of Real Business, the UK's leading magazine for entrepreneurs. He is a founder of Caspian Publishing, the £10m-turnover media business and a regular commentator in the media on entrepreneurial and investment issues.

For further information and to book tickets visit http://www.bl.uk/bipc/inspiring.html

This event is originated by the British Library.