Member Article

Teesside Uni works with regional fund manager to support new startups

The Launchpad programme at Teesside University, a driving force behind Teesside-based, startup ventures, has created a new space to encourage entrepreneurship and enterprise in the region.

Launchpad has created a space where people with innovative ideas and the drive to create a new business can meet, share and collaborate with like-minded startup founders.

Part of its offering allows businesses to connect with investors to access funding to grow their business.

Rivers Capital Partners, will be working closely with Launchpad to engage with more Teesside-based entrepreneurs, have in turn re-located their Tees Valley-based operations. The regional fund managers hope the move to the Victoria Building at Teesside University will better serve its remit of supporting startups around campus.

Hosting one-to-one ‘Venture Investment’ sessions from the co-working space in the Victoria Building, the Rivers investment team will be on hand to discuss any matters relating to accessing funding for your business.

Steve Dougan, Head of Graduate Enterprise at Teesside University said, “Teesside Launchpad exists to create the space and conditions within which innovation can thrive and investment is a key component of that strategy.”

“Jonathan and his team at Rivers will add huge value to what is fast becoming a vibrant entrepreneurial community located in the heart of a confident and ambitious University with big plans for the future.”

Jonathan Gold, Managing Director at Rivers said, “We are delighted to Teesside University, a natural fit for Rivers, with so many companies from our portfolio already working from this space.

“This university is a hotspot for entrepreneurship and enterprise. The team and I are looking forward to working alongside Launchpad to support the growth and innovation of more Teesside-based businesses.”