Rosebud event sees leaders commit to unlocking ambition through collaboration

Over 70 leaders from local governments, businesses, and innovation sectors in Lancashire came together to share a vision aimed at fostering ambition, growth, and investment through collaborative efforts.

The event occurred on December 4 at Brockholes Nature Reserve and was organized by Rosebud, a component of the Business Growth Service for Lancashire County Council.

It acted as a motivating prompt, urging attendees to work together to build a setting where companies can flourish.

It highlighted how collaborations between different sectors, including public and private partnerships, along with improved networks, can lead to progress and generate enduring benefits for both companies and the community.

This event marked one of the initial significant meetings following the government's announcement of Lancashire's devolution agreement. It highlighted the importance of working together to boost economic development, assist local businesses, and achieve the region's bold objectives.

Councillor Phillippa Williamson, the head of Lancashire County Council, stated: "This devolution agreement allows us to unite our efforts, and now it's time to turn our words into action."

Councillor Aidy Riggott, who is in charge of economic development, shared this view and stressed the importance of working together. He talked about the county's growth strategies and pointed out how important initiatives such as the Lancashire Business Board, the Early-Stage Investment Board, and the Business Growth Service are for boosting the local economy.

The attendees also listened to representatives from Lancashire's business assistance, finance, and funding sector. This included insights from Rosebud, which provides loans ranging from £25 to £100,000 for local businesses, as well as Access to Finance and fhunded, who discussed the promising investment opportunities available to companies.

For more than 35 years, Rosebud has been a crucial part of the local business community.

While on stage, entrepreneurs James Cole from Panache Cruises and Derry Green from The Secret Garden Glamping Company emphasized how important Rosebud has been to their success and urged everyone in the audience to share this message.

The occasion signified a significant milestone in the fund's enduring history, as Rosebud shifts its attention back to startups and expanding companies. This change is aimed at spurring economic development, getting these businesses ready for investment, and creating new opportunities.

Participants seized the chance to network, share insights, and seek collaborations within Lancashire's dynamic business and investment community, all while being surrounded by the stunning natural scenery of Brockholes.

Looking back on the success of the event, Councillor Aidy Riggott remarked, "This gathering highlighted the unique qualities of Lancashire and showcased the potential that emerges when the private sector collaborates with the public sector. The positive influence of Rosebud on the businesses it has backed was clearly visible throughout the afternoon."

There are numerous thrilling possibilities for business expansion in Lancashire.

Our Business Support Service is robust, and we are excited about the new possibilities that come with the establishment of the National Cyber Force, along with the strategic advancement of initiatives such as Lancashire Central and the Samlesbury Enterprise Zone.

A new Business Board made up of key figures from various industries has been established to enhance the participation of the private sector in developing local growth strategies. This initiative aims to foster extensive input from small businesses by utilizing established networks.

Martin Emmott, the manager of the Rosebud fund, expressed his excitement, stating, "It was wonderful to witness so many individuals come together in a collaborative spirit."

Rosebud is available to assist businesses in Lancashire in reaching their full potential by providing loans between £25,000 and £100,000, along with strategic guidance throughout the entire process.

"We're aware that there are many other companies similar to Panache Cruises, The Secret Garden Glamping Company, and our other thriving investments, and we're eager to connect with them."

The event also featured a number of notable speakers, including Simon Lawrence, the director of growth and regeneration at Lancashire County Council; Professor Miranda Barker OBE DL, the CEO of East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce; Nikki Whittle, a partner at Brabners; Ann Jordan Dean MBE DL, who chairs the Lancashire Digital Skills Partnership; former Lancashire High Sheriff David Taylor CBE DL; and Amin Vepari, who leads business and financial growth initiatives at Lancashire County Council.

The discussions highlighted various subjects, such as ways to provide more opportunities for female and diverse entrepreneurs, strategies for fostering ambition, and the importance of promoting Lancashire's strengths more effectively. They also emphasized the involvement of additional financial backers like the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

After this event, there will be additional gatherings where Lancashire County Council will discuss its goals, strategies, and major initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth.

It will collaborate with Lancashire Business View for the Festival of Business on January 30 and will also be organizing the Convention of the North on February 27 and 28.

Rosebud supports the most driven businesses in Lancashire as they expand. Its goal is to empower local companies and residents to reach their full potential, contributing to the economic development of the region. By offering essential resources, tools, and networking opportunities, Rosebud helps ambitious enterprises succeed and flourish.

Rosebud provides various services to help businesses with their financial needs and growth. This involves personalized assistance, professional advice, and customized financing options or co-investment opportunities for companies throughout Lancashire, spanning multiple sectors and industries, that are aiming to expand and develop.

Businesses that meet the criteria—specifically, those functioning as limited companies and located within one of the 12 local authority areas of Lancashire County Council—can take out loans ranging from £25,000 to £100,000. These loans come with interest rates that can reach up to 14 percent and are available for a duration of up to five years.

To learn more about Rosebud, check out their website at www.rosebudfinance.co.uk.