Yorkshire accountancy firm scores with support of £3m Soccer Manager investment

A Yorkshire-based accountancy firm has supported a Northern gaming business to secure multi-million pound funding.

With support from Garbutt + Elliott, online soccer management game Soccer Manager has £3m to increase its presence in global markets.

The Preston-based company secured the funding in a round led by existing investor Mercia, with participation from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund and the government’s Future Fund.

Founded in in 2004 by brothers, Andy, Chris and Steven Gore, the company employs over 40 staff.

The firm plans to use the new investment to expand its reach in the Middle East and Far East, as well as further develop its SM 2022 game - due to launch this autumn - and relaunch its original multi-player game SM World with new apps and features.

Andy Gore, CEO of Soccer Manager, commented: “We founded Soccer Manager with a vision to create high-quality football games that the whole world could play.

“We have always had the view that football, mobile and the internet is a powerful combination to achieve this vision.

“After years of building out our IP, technology, and games to millions of people worldwide, this investment will add significant fuel to our current growth trajectory and ambitions.”

Ken Cooper, managing director at British Business Bank, added: “The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund continues to provide vital funding to innovative businesses across the region.

“We are working with Mercia and our other appointed fund managers to make a real impact on business communities, creating jobs and supporting innovation by providing access to funding and unlocking the North’s potential.”