Metal firm forges ahead with funding boost

A North Shields metalwork business is scaling up after securing funding to boost production.

AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd, founded by long-time friends Ali Balçin and Scott Hall in 2024, has received a five-figure Start Up Loan via the Business Enterprise Fund. 

They say the support, delivered through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, has enabled the business to invest in machinery upgrades including a bandsaw and enhanced production systems that have “made a huge difference”.

The improvements have boosted efficiency and paved the way for the company to take on more ambitious projects across sectors such as pharmaceuticals and nuclear. 

Ali said: “Starting my own business was a leap of faith but securing the Start Up Loan gave us the boost we needed. 

“Investing in the right equipment has made a huge difference, and having the freedom to build something with Scott has been incredibly rewarding. 

“We’re excited for what’s ahead as we grow and take on bigger projects.

“My family has always inspired me to work in the trade sector and having studied welding and fabrication at college before spending five years working for others and building up my knowledge and skills, I knew it was time to kickstart my own business. 

“Scott and I have been really lucky that we gained traction quickly through word-of-mouth referrals and strategic networking, but the Start Up Loan is going to help us propel things even further.”

AMS Welding and Fabrication already provides welding, fabrication and repair services nationwide and is now eyeing a larger premises to support its expansion.

Claire Constable, investment manager at BEF, who helped Ali secure the Start Up Loan, added: “It’s been fantastic working with Ali and seeing his business flourish. 

“His dedication to his craft and vision for AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd is inspiring. 

“We’re proud to have provided the funding that will help him take the business to the next level.”

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