Raising Finance | Venture Capital | Start-up Finance | Financial Management | Government grants | Funding for Businesses

From the founder of Glasses Direct to the CEO of microlending company Wonga, GB talks to the leaders of five of the UK's hottest VC-backed companies about how they raised the cash and what they're doing with it.

Are fundraising prospects improving?

Mark Tasker, a specialist in the technology sector at corporate law firm Fox Williams, considers the current outlook for businesses seeking funding.

Assessing government VC funds

A report from the National Audit Office slamming the performance of state-backed venture capital (VC) funds has caused an outcry from sections of the VC community. GrowthBusiness investigates.

Flotation

The return of the IPO

The IPO market shows signs of emerging from hibernation, despite the much-publicised cancellation of a few big-name floats.

AIM Adviser Index

In association with Business XL magazine, we present our ranking of the brokers, nomads, auditors and lawyers most active on AIM.

Why standard listings are a mistake

James Crux, editor of Growth Company Investor, argues that a new LSE listing category is decidedly sub-standard.

Debt Finance

The downside of factoring

Sue Stedman, founder of Sue Stedman Corporate Clothing, explains why she’s always avoided invoice factoring.

The truth about bank lending

Tighter security terms. Higher borrowing costs. Personal guarantees as standard. But don’t worry, the banks are still ‘open for business’. Or are they?

Convertible loan notes explained

Raising money in 2009 is tough, and convertible loan notes (CLNs) may offer a possible solution.

Start-up Finance

Funding a technology business

A guide to raising finance for early-stage technology companies.

Brits hit the Bay Area

UK entrepreneurs cross the pond to woo wealthy West Coast investors.

Who really funds innovation?

Mariana Mazzucato, professor of economics at The Open University, believes the state plays a greater role in entrepreneurship than it gets credit for.

Financial Management

Currency control

Exporters and financial experts explain how to make currency moves work in your favour.

Sticking to those new year’s resolutions

Although most people will have made and broken their personal New Year’s Resolutions by 24 January, there are seven good habits every business should stick to.

The rise of the renminbi

Hugh Metcalf, senior economics lecturer at Newcastle University Business School, sheds light on the factors affecting China’s currency.

Startup business account from Lloyds TSB

We'll give you a dedicated relationship manager to support you, a range of free guidance services and 18 months free day-to-day banking; so you can spend less time worrying about your banking and more time building your business.

Trying to raise business finance?

The Vistage Guide to Raising Finance in The New Economy. It tells you what your options are and how best to present your case for business finance. Simply visit www.neweconomyblog.co.uk/rf2 to request your free copy.

Barclaycard Commercial – Ease your business cash flow

Our Visa and MasterCard credit and charge cards give you greater control over your expenses, help with cash flow and could safeguard your business by providing extra financial protection. Find out more about our credit and charge card solution.

Research

Directors' Pay AIM 2009

What should an AIM company pay its CEO or FD?
What should a non-executive director or chairman expect to be paid?
What benchmarks should AIM remuneration committee members be using when
setting pay?

VCT Special Report 2009

This reports principle aim is to provide business owners seeking funding with information about the amount of funds that VCTs have to invest.

Cash Shells Special Report 2009

A comprehensive overview of cash shells on AIM and PLUS, companies that have become a significant feature on the market landscape.

5 Things You Need to Understand About Your Nexus Footprint

Understand how to monitor your business activities as well as how states enforce Nexus.

ABA Banking Journal

Covers the commercial banking industry in the United States, focusing on a wide variety of banking technologies and solutions.

Accountants World Daily Newsletter

Provides a large collection of relevant news stories that are sourced from over 2,000 different publications daily.

Barclays Business Start Up Account

Everything you need in one place from help with planning to getting more customers, to FREE seminars and a credit checking service to help you get paid quicker. Plus, up to 2 years FREE banking (conditions apply). Apply online

Barclaycard Commercial – Visa Gold and Platinum Corporate Charge Cards

Get up to 38 days’ interest-free credit, providing balances are paid in full. Exclusive discounts with the AA, Rymans, Daisy Telecom and reclaim international VAT. Access great travel benefits including Travel Accident Cover, 24 hour international support helpline, exclusive concierge service and discounted priority pass membership. Plus, 90 Purchase Protection, Extended Warranties, and cardholder Misuse Insurance. Find out more...

Selecting the right IT strategy in 2010

Owner managers and CEOs of fast-growing companies want IT-applications that accelerate competitive advantage and improve operational efficiency. This free whitepaper helps you plan and choose the right IT strategy for your business in 2010. Download ‘Selecting The Right Software Vendor’.

Compare public liability and business insurance quotes now

Compare quotes in minutes from leading insurers, including Zurich, Aviva, AXA and Hiscox. Tailor your cover levels with public & employer’s liability, business premises, professional indemnity or business interruption cover among others. Find out more now

Get started with Barclays Business Banking

Choose from 3 great Start-up packages offering a range of business and banking solutions, from cashflow management software (QuickBooks or Sage) to VAT management solution. Plus, up to 2 years FREE banking (conditions apply). Apply online.

The Perfect Accounts Package?

Finding the right Accounts Software and the right partner to provide it needn't be a challenge. Our free service delivers tailored quotes from the best providers. Compare quotes now.

Secure early payment for your unpaid invoices with Simply Business

Simply Business works with a carefully selected panel of the UK's leading factoring and invoice discounting providers. Find out your cash flow options in minutes, you could have 90% of your invoices paid in 24 hours. To find out more click here

Weekly Advice & Tips on Raising Capital

Free weekly information and advice on raising capital for your business, easing cash flow or boosting your bottom line. Find out more or sign up today.