East of England Co-op launches investment fund

A SUPERMARKET has launched a regional investment fund for small businesses in the region.

The East of England Cooperative Society says investments could range from a few thousand pounds to hundreds of thousands or more.

Doug Field, executive officer for finance and technology at the Coop, said: “We know how tough it is for growing businesses to get the finance and support they need to flourish. We want to find the great businesses of the future, where we believe we can make a positive impact and help them grow.”

He added: “The society has a broad range of business interests. With the launch of this Regional Investment Fund we are not only looking for ‘more of the same’ but also new areas of interest.”

The fund was launched at the Colchester Food and Drink Festival, where guests included the society’s local suppliers and business organisation.

The criteria for a successful application for funding will be linked to the society’s ethical code and its support for businesses based in the region with the potential for growth.

Sectors of particular interest include existing and potential suppliers to the Society and organisations involved in renewable energy, e-commerce, technology and the environment.