A Solent-based entrepreneur has received £25k in Start Up Loan funding.
Donald Iro, founder of management consultancy business Hamilton Berkeley, who has more than 10 years of experience in the technology sector, has taken the leap to start his own consultancy firm.
The funding supported the setup operations and investment into branding and marketing.
Hamilton Berkley provides management consultancy services for public and private sector businesses across the UK.
The business specialises in digital transformation. With three core service areas, the business focuses on business strategy, operation strategy, and project management.
Subsequently, from inception to delivery, Hamilton Berkeley helps its customers to resolve some of the most challenging issues in operations, data, and digital technology
The business began trading in 2020 upon delivery of the first round of funding. Additional funding was obtained in 2021. Since then, the business has tripled its head count.
Of the funding, Donald said “After working in the technology sector for over `10 years, I decided to start up a technology consultancy. Therefore, I needed a funding vehicle tailored to a start-up business. SWIG finance, through the Start-Up loan fund, was a perfect option. Mark Thayre was very knowledgeable, proactive, and supportive of my requirements. It has been a pleasure and reassurance to have the funding support ”
SWIG Finance’s Start Up Loans Senior Business Manager, Mark Thayre said “Donald is an ambitious and accomplished entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in the technology sector. So when Don approached us for Start Up Loan funding, it was clear that he was capable of leading the business forwards. Furthermore, there was clearly a demand for his services. We were delighted to be able to support him with starting his own venture”.
About SWIG Finance
SWIG Finance is a people-based lender that provides loans and support to help smaller businesses in the South and West Country grow. We base our lending decisions on potential rather than collateral, which means that we can often support businesses when others can't.
We’re growing every year. In 2024/25, we lent £14.8m to 501 businesses, helping to create and secure over 1,272 jobs and generate £75.7m in social impact. Download the report here.
If you’d like an informal chat about your funding requirements, get in touch with our friendly and professional team to see how we can help: info@swigfinance.co.uk / 01872 227 930