Get investment‑ready with this 3‑part series on funding options, investor expectations and effective pitch storytelling

Delivered by Lifted Ventures, this practical 3‑part programme is designed to help founders understand their funding options, prepare their business for investment, and build a compelling pitch and financial narrative.

The first two sessions take place online, with the final session delivered in person.

Who this series is for

Founders, early‑stage entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners who want to strengthen their growth strategy, understand the funding landscape, and develop the confidence and tools needed to pursue investment.

Event schedule

Session 1 – Funding options and financial strategy

Date: 18 March 2026

Time: 10am to 12.30pm (online

Topic: Understanding grants, loans, equity, and choosing the right funding route for your stage of business

You will: 

• Gain clarity on the UK funding landscape
• Understand which finance options best suit your goals and business stage
• Build knowledge and confidence around grants, loans, and equity
• Connect with other founders on the investment journey

Session 2 (this session) – What investors look for: preparing your business for investment

Date: 20 March 2026

Time: 10am to 1pm (Online)

Topic: Strengthening your business model and positioning your venture for investment.

You will:

• Understand how to shape a business model for growth and funding
• Learn what investors expect from early‑stage businesses
• Discover practical steps to improve your investment readiness
• Build a clearer strategic roadmap to secure funding

Session 3 – Investor‑Ready Business: Pitch Planning and Financial Narrative

Date: 26 March 2026

Time: 10am to 1pm (in person)

Location: Stockton-on-Tees Employment and Training Hub, 40 Wellington Square, Stockton, TS18 1RH

Topic: Developing your pitch deck, business narrative, and core investment materials.

You will:

• Craft a compelling business and investment narrative
• Learn the key elements of a high‑quality pitch deck
• Shape the foundations of an investor‑ready business plan
• Improve your ability to communicate vision, traction, and financials
• Get real‑time support and the opportunity to ask questions

Important Information

• This is a 3‑part series. When booking a ticket, you are committing to attend all three sessions.
• The sessions build on each other, so attendance at all dates is required.
• Sessions 1 and 2 are online, and Session 3 is in person in Stockton‑on‑Tees.

This session is part of the Tees Valley Business Masterclass Series, delivered by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

✅ Fully funded for eligible Tees Valley based participants.

Note: By signing up you are giving Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council permission to share your details with Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), our Local Authority partners and Lifted Ventures, to support with the organisation and delivery of these events. Your details will not be used for marketing purposes.