Funding chance for ventures that have a global outlook

BANKING giant HSBC yesterday announced that it hoped to offer further support to Yorkshire entrepreneurs who aren’t afraid to think globally.

The bank has launched Global Connections, an initiative which highlights the importance of international business.

Across the UK, the top 10 international and innovative businesses could be awarded a share in £60m worth of funding. The finalists will also be invited to take part in international exchanges for networking and business development.

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David Beaty, HSBC’s regional commercial director for the North, said yesterday: “Through our many meetings with business leaders across the region, we know that Yorkshire is home to many entrepreneurial, forward thinking companies.

“And, in a tightening domestic economy, international trade offers a great opportunity for many businesses seeking growth.

“Our Global Connections initiative seeks to help UK businesses compete at the forefront of international trade. Not only can we help through providing funding but also through introducing them to other entrepreneurial businesses both in the UK and around the word.

“Once you bring businesses together, you can tangibly see partnerships forming as they share challenges, insights, and find synergies to help each other grow. It is a privilege to facilitate these connections and to help UK businesses achieve success on a global scale. Trading across borders is not only critical for the future success of businesses in Yorkshire but is also critical to the UK economy.”

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HSBC has previously taken businesses from across the UK on ‘Thought Exchange’ trips in some of the world’s most dynamic areas of economic growth – Hong Kong, Brazil, New York, United Arab Emirates and Paris – allowing them to meet other businesses and investigate international trade opportunities.

This year’s competition will be linked into a global initiative allowing more businesses to connect. However, the competition element will be unique for UK businesses.

HSBC said it was “inviting forward thinking, ambitious businesses in Yorkshire to demonstrate the quality of their thinking”.

Businesses are able to submit an application detailing their business plans and funding requirements online at www.hsbc.uk/globalconnections by the closing date of Friday July 13, 2012.