Bringing investors and firms together (From The Advertiser Series)

Bringing investors and firms together

9:23am Thursday 22nd January 2009

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A PROJECT that has helped launch 1,000 technology companies and generate hundreds of millions of dollars in the US is being established in the North-East to help fledgling firms thrive during the economic storm.

Connect North-East launches today to help young technology companies pair up with investors and venture capitalists that can help them realise and achieve their potential – despite the global downturn.

A series of networking events and workshops, as well as an investment conference, will help young companies meet potential backers, while through the connectnorth east.com website, businesses can complete a company profile that will then be seen by investors.

The Connect concept was founded in San Diego, California, in 1985, since when 1,000 technology companies have been started and more than $600m has been dedicated to funding 300 companies.

The model’s introduction into the UK is being sponsored by Lord Sainsbury and will be delivered in the North- East by networking society The Bridge Club.

Caroline Theobald, of The Bridge Club, said it remains an optimum time to look for business investment.

“Despite what we hear about a recession, there is money out there,” she said.

“There is always the money to support good ideas. But it’s about marrying the right ideas with the right people.”

The Bridge Club will work with partners including Finance Tree, Newcastle Science City, North Star Equity Investors and NETPark, in Sedgefield, County Durham, to deliver Connect North-East.

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