The York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub has announced the launch of the new cohort for the highly successful ‘North Yorkshire Stars’ Investment Readiness Programme.

Following the significant achievements of the previous cohort, this initiative aims to support and prepare a fresh group of regional start-ups and early-stage businesses for investment opportunities.

The North Yorkshire Stars Programme is a fully-funded 12-hour support initiative that offers a blend of in-person and virtual workshops. It is open to businesses across all sectors.

The course aims to help founders refine their business models, access funding, and pitch effectively to investors.

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David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “The North Yorkshire Stars Programme has proven to be a vital resource for our entrepreneurs. It not only equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to attract investment but also fosters a spirit of innovation and inclusivity. I am confident that this new cohort will continue to build on the success of the previous one and further strengthen our local economy.”

The programme will be delivered by business advice company Lifted Ventures, which was co-founded by Helen Oldham and Jordan Dargue, whose mission is to increase early-stage capital for founders outside London.

Jordan said: “After the fundamental success of the first North Yorkshire Stars Access to Finance programme, we are delighted to be supporting the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub for a second time. The programme aims to support all businesses across the region, guiding participants through the process of making their businesses investment ready.”

The comprehensive support provided by the programme has been lauded by past participants.

One testimonial stated: “The Lifted Ventures North Yorkshire Stars programme has been instrumental in our journey, providing unwavering support, valuable introductions, and the opportunity to meet so many other great founders and advisors. Jordan and Helen’s dedication has been pivotal to our progress and success.”

The programme schedule includes a series of workshops and events starting from September 23.

It will focus on developing business plans, exploring funding options, financial forecasting, legal requirements, and crafting effective pitch decks.

The course will culminate in a pitch event on December 3, where participants will present their investment opportunities to a panel of seasoned investors from the North Yorkshire Angel Network.

This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The funding was allocated by North Yorkshire Council and is available exclusively to businesses registered in the North Yorkshire Council area.

For details and to apply, go to: https://ynygrowthhub.com/blog/news/north-yorkshire-stars/