Applications have opened for businesses in Stockport and across Greater Manchester to take part in the third cohort of the GC Angels Venture Forward investment-readiness programme.
The scheme supports early-stage founders in the North with an eight-weeks of support, and the chance to secure up to £500,000 in equity funding. The programme is free, based in Manchester, and includes expert-led workshops, one-to-one coaching, and real investor exposure.
The third cohort of the Venture Forward programme, backed by Innovate UK, and will run from September to November 2026. Support will will provide business owners with the tools and know-how to optimise for securing investor funding.
Over eight weeks, workshops will cover key areas of the fundraising process, including funding options, strategy, financial modelling, valuations, term sheets and building out a robust fundraising campaign. There will also be support to deep dive into businesses’ individual value and investor propositions.
GC Angels are especially keen to reach founders who are underrepresented in the investment world including female founders, founders from diverse or low-income backgrounds, LGBTQ+ founders, and founders with disabilities.
The deadline for applications is 24th August, and details of how to take part can be found here.
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