The fund aims to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunities for new and growing businesses throughout the South East.

The South East Investment Fund offers two commercial finance options: loans ranging from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investments of up to £5 million. The fund supports businesses across the entire South East, including rural, coastal and urban communities.

For similar funding in other regions, click here to see a full list of the British Business Bank’s investment funding, covering all areas of the UK.

The fund is increasing the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for smaller businesses across the South East, by providing funding to businesses that might otherwise not receive investment and helping to break down barriers in access to finance.

ESG considerations have been embedded into the funds design, supporting the UK economy’s transition to net zero.

Funding available

Debt Finance from £25,000 – £2 million: for smaller companies that can demonstrate growth potential

As small businesses grow, large injections of capital are often needed to move them to the next level. The South East Investment Fund could help smaller business owners to deliver their business ambitions, including:

• Leasing new commercial premises
• Hiring a new team
• Funding marketing costs
• Purchasing new machinery or equipment
• Launching a new product or service

Equity Finance up to £5 million: for businesses with potential for high growth

Equity finance can be particularly important for new and innovative companies with high growth potential as it can provide long-term backing to fund business growth through to revenue and profit. In simple terms, equity finance is raising capital through the sale of shares in a business.

The South East Investment Fund has particular interest in supporting equity investments, helping the region to become a vibrant and sustainable venture capital market. An equity-based investment could be right if you run an established business with ambitious plans, or a large start up with high growth potential.

How to apply

To apply for funding, visit the British Business Bank at the link below, and select the type of funding requested. You can then contact a regional fund manager to discuss your application further.