Release: Immediate SUFFOLK PREPARES FOR BUSINESS TAKE OFF 26 September 2003: Companies across the region are set to profit from an exciting new venture that will put Suffolk firmly on the business map. Suffolk Investors Forum (SIF) has been set up to encourage investment in the county’s enterprises. It draws together the resources of the Suffolk Development Agency (SDA), East of England Development Agency (EEDA), Institute of Directors (IoD), Business Link for Suffolk, Suffolk’s Chamber of Commerce and more than 20 accountants, solicitors, banks and financial advisors. Working in partnership with Beer & Partners Ltd, the UK’s largest private equity group, SIF aims to promote investment opportunities within Suffolk companies. This will be achieved by developing a business network which enables local companies to meet with Business Angels and attend events and educational sessions. Keith Ferguson, member of the SIF launch group and Partner at accountants and business advisors, PKF East Anglia said: “Suffolk Investors Forum represents a great opportunity to really get investment working in the county. The region has a wealth of business professionals who can offer the best financial advice and opportunities to local companies. We need to capitalise on this and make Suffolk an excellent place to do business.” Suffolk Investors Forum will officially open for business on Thursday November 6th when a special launch event is scheduled at The Galleria, Ipswich Town Football Club. Local companies and investors will be invited to hear the wide range of opportunities available through SIF, with the chance to discuss how their business could benefit. John Williams, Chief Executive of the Suffolk Development Agency said: “This is an extremely exciting time for Suffolk. SIF has been set up to create a culture of investment and to make the most of the business potential we have in the county. This is definitely good news for local commerce.” The SIF launch group comprises Keith Ferguson, PKF, Peter Martin, Beer & Partners Mike Carter, Lloyds TSB Corporate, Sue Gull, Scrutton Bland, Keith Page, Barclays Bank, Paul Whittingham, Ashton Graham, Fei-Ni Toole, East of England Development Agency, Graham Shorter, Grant Thornton and John Williams, Suffolk Development Agency. Suffolk Investors Forum is looking for other local companies to support the initiative. If you are interested in becoming a member please contact Peter Martin on 01473 213747. - Ends - Further information: Please contact Rachel Smith, Mosaic Publicity on 01206 548100. |
