The Prince’s Trust has a network of 150+ business people, Solicitors, Accountants and other professionals. The Prince’s Trust itself gives advice and funding to young entrepreneurs who are starting up their own business. The mentors, along with the dedicated qualified business team, then give the 140 businesses we start every financial year the support and encouragement they need to survive and flourish with their business. As the Programme Manager I am able to contact all 150+ mentors and over 400 businesses we have on our books in Birmingham and Solihull to ask them for advice and also any guidance anyone needs with regard to any business idea they may have. We are also looking for any new people who would be interested in supporting a young entrepreneur. If this sounds like you then please contact Dave Lewis on 0121 689 6904.

The Pie Finance methodology (international patents pending) was conceived to bridge the early (idea to investable) stage funding gap. Using our sophisticated resource and funding micro-investment matching system, we aim to help individuals and businesses obtain the resources they require to bring their ideas, ventures and projects to market. If you are looking for early stage funding, interested in investing resources or funds, please register using our Facebook application at http://apps.facebook.com/piefinance/ or via our web site.

CIDA is the leading support organisation for the creative and cultural sector. Our activities are primarily focussed within the London boroughs of Hackney, Newham and Tower Hamlets but many of our current projects are open to those based in the wider London area. We help thousands of creative individuals, businesses and arts organisations at varying stages of development through our range of innovative projects, services and events. Information – Our website and regular e-bulletin keep people and businesses up to date with the latest creative opportunities and events. Business support & professional development – Our training sessions offer practical guidance from specialist advisers and industry experts. Networking & showcasing opportunities – Our events bring creative professionals together to share knowledge, build contacts and get their work to new audiences and markets Cultural production and commissioning – Our commitment to nurturing, commissioning and developing talent is borne out through our emerging partnerships with leading organisations such as the East London Design Show, London Metropolitan University and BBC London.

Innovation Central awards 12 bursaries (of £3,500) each year to enable innovative start-up businesses in Camden and Islington to make their business ideas a reality. Applicants much have a business idea based around an innovative product or service, be based in Camden or Islington (home or work base) and have been trading for less than 18 months. The next deadline for applications is Thursday the 18th of December 2008. Please see our website to download an application pack.