A group from Westminster visited Bristol to see the success of businesses following support from SWIG Finance.

US Delegates from the Global Entrepreneurship Collective in Milwaukee came to the city following an invitation to the UK by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Ian Duncan Smith, to discuss the innovative model of support provided to entreprises.

SWIG Finance Managing Director, John Peters, Executive Director, Peter Casey and Fund Manager Sarah Osborn introduced the delegates to Bristol entrepreneurs who received loans and business advice to get their businesses up and running.

Melody Beard and Thomas Coppen started their businesses after applying for SWIG loans and continue to be supported by their mentors.

Ms Beard opened the Hungry Caterpillar Play Café in Bedminster at the end of November after becoming frustrated by the time constraints of playgroups, and instead turned to cafes to meet with other mums. A first-time entrepreneur, she received business advice from BRAVE in putting together her application for a start-up loan and is continuing to receive mentoring from advisor John Hector.

Mr Peters said: “We were keen to show the delegates the effect on people of support for businesses and entrepreneurs. We have helped many businesses in Bristol which have flourished thank to access to business finance and advice from organisations like BRAVE, Outset and Business West.”

The original article appeared in the Bristol Post.