Date: Wednesday 24th March 2027
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Location: Campfield Market Hall, Barton Street, Manchester, M3 4NN
Cost: Free
Access to Alternative Funding – when a bank says no
Whether you're exploring funding now, planning for the future, or simply want to hear more about what's available, it's a relaxed opportunity to hear from the GC Business Finance team, businesses that have successfully secured investment, and ask any questions you may have.
It's also a great opportunity for accountants, solicitors and business advisers to meet the team, make new connections and learn more about the funding options available for the businesses they support.
🥐 Lunch, tea & coffee included
🤝 Free to attend
Access to Alternative Funding with GC Business Finance
Overview
Looking to grow your business or explore new funding options?
Join GC Business Finance for a practical panel discussion exploring the funding available to businesses across Greater Manchester and the wider North West.
Hear from experienced investment managers Alison Darkes and Ashley Alletson as they discuss the current funding landscape, alternative finance beyond traditional bank lending, and what funders look for when assessing applications.
Not sure how to get ready for funding?
Hear from our Access to Finance Network Manager, Heather Waters on how our Finance Support team can help you become funding ready with practical advice on completing Business Plans, Financial Forecasts etc.
The session will cover:
- Funding opportunities from £500 to £100,000
- Start Ups, Early-stage, Growth finance
- Alternative funding options beyond traditional lending
- Eligibility, application processes and what funders are looking for
- The current funding landscape for growing businesses
You'll also hear first-hand experiences from Greater Manchester businesses that have successfully secured investment NPIF II and Start Up Loans funding for uses such as securing working capital.
Following the panel discussion, there will be an opportunity to ask questions, meet the speakers and network with fellow business owners and professionals over refreshments.
Whether you're actively seeking investment or simply want to understand the funding options available, this event offers practical insights and valuable connections.
Need working capital to finance your expansion? What are the funding options available in Greater Manchester and the North West?
Spaces are limited – register now to be part of the vital conversation.
This event is suitable for:
- Businesses looking for or thinking about taking on loan funding to start or grow.
- Organisations looking to become referral partners.
About The Speakers
Claire-Marie Boggiano
STRIDE Facilitator & Leadership Coach
Claire-Marie is a Chartered Engineer holding an MBA from Manchester Business School. Claire-Marie is a guest lecturer in Change Management and Entrepreneurship at Manchester Business School. She is the alumni lead for MBS Women Leading in Business group and regularly hosts the Institute of Directors Women’s Forum in the North West. Claire-Marie is a committee member of the IoD Manchester and has recently commenced working with EEF The Manufacturing Organisation to raise the profile of Women in Engineering. Claire-Marie is an expert in Change Management for many years and delivers the Day 3 workshop of the STRIDE programme – Oakridge’s 6 month leadership programme for female middle management development. Her workshop focuses on the managing business aspect. This is the final element of the programme and supports women attending to learn more about how they can impact their organisation, bring others with them and to become a role model for others. Claire-Marie is a member of the Manchester City Council International Women’s Day Steering Group. To any challenge Claire-Marie brings energy, focus and action. Her core skills include “breaking eggs”, “building gladiators” and “making connections”. Claire-Marie believes organisations and teams succeed by working with the imagination and talents of their people.