London-based, and looking to raise £10,000 or more?

On first glance, I mistook Access to Finance (A2F) as the London Development Agency’s version of Santa Claus, writes Adele Barlow.

“Money, money, money… all the things I could do, if I had a little money…” ABBA lyrics went through my head as I browsed the new online portal for Access to Finance.

As I began to read the text, I quickly realized how wrong my Santa analogy was. First of all, Santa analogies generally do not belong in finance territory - the purpose of an investment is a return (Santa never asks for presents himself, as far as I know).  A2F is a programme that helps you to prepare the presentation of your business to lenders, and makes introductions to lenders for feasible propositions.

Those eligible for funding are any new London-based start-up businesses looking to raise £10,000 or more, or existing business employing less than 250.

There is a confidential and impartial review of your business with a dedicated business advisor, as well as a minimum of three days of business support towards the development of a high quality and viable business plan.

There are also local events exploring the different types of business finance available as well as introductory workshops run by experienced business advisors.

This is the opportunity to have an experienced outsider, fluent in investor-speak, examine your business and prepare you for investment pitches. While the programme is highly subsidised, a £200 contribution fee is required to access this programme.

Further information can be gained from visiting the A2F website.