MEET THE EXPERTS: Finance & Funding

Exclusive Members-Only Event
Let’s talk money – and how to get it working for your business.

Looking to grow your business, invest in new equipment, or expand into new premises? Finding the right funding can be a challenge – and knowing what’s out there (and what’s right for you) can make all the difference.

At this exclusive members-only event, you’ll hear from three leading experts with years of experience in business finance and funding. They’ll be discussing the current landscape, sharing practical tips and insider insights – followed by a Q&A session where you can ask your own questions.

Meet the Experts

Susie Warran-Smith CBE DL
Founder of the award-winning Breakthrough Funding (sold to EY in 2020), former Executive Director at EY and Non-Exec Director at HMRC, Susie is a passionate champion of small business. Named a Commander of the British Empire for her services to SMEs, she now sits on the board of the British Library and is a familiar face on TV and radio. Expect big insights from someone who knows the funding landscape inside and out.

Iain Hawthorn – Aravis
Iain delivers a professional advisory, consultancy & support service to a wide range of food & drink businesses in the field of growth funding (start-up, scale-up and stay-up), working capital management, and liquidity (cash flow) risk management - learned from a 40+ plus year career in corporate & business finance. He specialises in working with entrepreneurs, Start-up, Scale-Up & Stay-up businesses, and those are looking to diversify. He is highly experienced in working with Food & Drink Manufacturers, Agriculture, Vertical Farms, Agri-Food, Vineyards, Glasshouses, and all forms of Advanced & Protected Horticulture.

Andrew Pledger – Barclays Eagle Labs
As Ecosystem Manager for Barclays Eagle Labs in Kent, Andrew works directly with entrepreneurs and SMEs to support innovation and business growth. He brings a wealth of knowledge around start-up funding, business support programmes and connecting businesses with the right networks and resources to scale.

Why attend?

Get expert advice on funding options and financial planning
Understand what lenders and investors are really looking for
Ask questions specific to your business needs
Connect with other Kent-based SMEs in the same boat

Not a member yet?

Join Produced in Kent today to access this event and a whole range of support to help your business thrive.