A collaborative partnership between the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) and Rivers Capital Partners is set to help businesses secure access to finance.
The pair will host sessions on a fortnightly basis, attended by a business support adviser from the BIC and a member of the investment team from Rivers Capital, which will aim to break down the barriers to finance for micro and small businesses.
Jonathan Gold, managing director at Rivers Capital, said: "We know that it can be frustrating trying to find funding to accelerate your ambitions and the next big thing can have the smallest beginnings.
"We bring a unique perspective to our investment decisions and we want to assist as many ambitious businesses as we can to access the funding they need to thrive. Working closely with the BIC will help more regional businesses achieve their vision."
Paul McEldon, chief executive at the BIC, added: "I am delighted that we have been able to turn a very successful working relationship into a partnership that will benefit businesses at whatever stage.
"For more than 20 years the BIC has supported business growth and access to finance is a big part of that. These sessions will help businesses to consider the best way to raise finance and fund their business growth."
Pictured (L-R): Louise Hardy, business development manager at The BIC; Jonathan Gold, managing director at Rivers Capital; Paul McEldon, chief executive at The BIC, and Kristine Murane, investment executive at Rivers Capital