LOCAL BUSINESSES aiming to grow are still looking for funding – even in this so-called ‘double dip’ recession.  And experts from McBrides Chartered Accountants will be considering the options open to them.

Directors of the firm, which has 40-years’ experience of helping businesses in North Kent and South London, will be speaking at the Marriott Hotel, Bexleyheath,  as part of the ‘Boosting your Business in Bexley’ event, being organised by Bexley Council in conjunction with the Bexleyheath Business Partnership.

Nigel Kimber, corporate finance director at McBrides, said: “Obtaining business finance in today’s economic climate is no mean feat. Traditional sources such as the banks are increasingly unable to lend without excellent security in place and strong supporting evidence that loans will be serviceable in the future.  Business people therefore need to think outside of the box and be creative in sourcing new outlets.”

In the two seminars – at 8.50am and 2pm on Tuesday May 22 – Nigel and fellow director Mark Grady will explain how to attract new stakeholders to support your business.

They will also point out the positives, and possible pitfalls, of web–sourced financing, from organisations such as The Funding Circle.

Despite the uncertain financial times, McBrides believe business confidence in the South East remains buoyant. “In a year of fiscal austerity there has been continued stability in the South East,” said Nigel.  “It is possible for businesses to press ahead and plan for growth, even in these difficult times, but it is knowing where to look to find access to all important financing that can be most difficult.”

Boosting your Business in Bexley takes place at the Marriott Hotel, Bexleyheath, on May 22 from 8am to 4pm. For further information, visit www.bexley.gov.uk/22may Special guest speaker is Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Black’s.

Finance and Business is our quarterly breakfast club for FDs/CFOs, CEOs and professional advisers (legal, accounting, banking or finance).

It costs nothing to join, but membership is limited so an early response is recommended.

Our next meeting takes place on Wednesday, 11 July 2012, 8am to 9:30am at our Sidcup office.

We focus on developments and opportunities relating to tax, accounting, employment and other financial aspects of running a business.  We also have a guest speaker who will speak on a topical issue of the day.

Don’t miss out on this FaB networking opportunity, as well as the chance to enhance your finance and business knowledge, for free. Please email our FaB coordinator Shirley Caddock on shirley.caddock@mcbridesllp.com and we will confirm your registration.