Finance in Cornwall 2024 – top results

This year’s Cornwall Finance was another real success! We had fantastic feedback from delegates and there was such a buzz in the room.

Our presenters from the funding landscape reflected well on the range of funding options available and the business networks that make Cornwall such a vibrant place to do business.

Top six takeaway products

1. Confidence in business among South West small businesses rose in the first quarter of 2024, following sustained declines, to the highest level since October 2021 (FSB).
2. Grant funding it became rarer with the delivery of the Shared Prosperity Fund on hiatus. The government has not yet announced any national fund to replace it.
3. you it becomes a part of everyday life in the business world. It’s a divisive issue, with many companies adopting it to maximize efficiency, while others prefer to stay away. There are opportunities available for business leaders who want to hone their digital skills to enter the world of AI.
4. Challenger banks and alternative lenders are on the rise across the country, proportionately Cornwall is perhaps slightly behind the trend. Challenger banks and alternative lenders are definitely looking to lend in our area, so don’t be defeated if your main bank says no.
5. Lack of grant funding and increased borrowing costs result in equity financing becoming more attractive to companies. There are opportunities for investors and investable businesses to come through the new Cornwall Angel Network (details to follow later this year). There are also other intermediaries such as Folk to Folk and Crowdcube for individual business investments.
6. Achieve investment ready if you’re looking for funding to grow your business, it’s important to start checking whether your business is investable now. This will ensure that you are ready when opportunities arise.

Event slides and watch events

Slides from the event can be found by clicking the buttons below, with sessions generally covering: