Trade Minister Ian Pearson is to launch a new £20 million fund for businesses in the West Midlands.
The MP for Dudley South, who was appointed to his new position in the post-election Government re-shuffle, will unveil the Advantage Enterprise & Innovation Fund.
Established by Advantage West Midlands, with joint backing from the European Regional Development Fund, the AEIF is aimed at providing successful and growing businesses in the region with the capital they need to succeed.
As a generalist fund the primary focus is on equity investment opportunities from £500,000 to £2 million but the AEIF can also consider projects up to £10 million as part of a larger syndicate.
The launch event, for business leaders and members of the professional services community across the region, takes place at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham next Wednesday.
As well as Mr Pearson, the speakers will be Nick Paul, chairman of Advantage West Midlands, and Clive Austin, a director of Catapult Venture Managers, who manage the Fund.
Mr Paul said: "We recognise that there is an equity gap in the region and one of the Agency's key roles is to provide access to finance that can remove this barrier to business growth.
" The AEIF will help established businesses expand, diversify and modernise - and make the West Midlands economy stronger and more dynamic."
Mr Austin said: "We see a real opportunity in working with local advisers and co-investors to support the best businesses in the region.
" Private equity is exactly the fuel they require to help them grow and, through our new Birmingham office, Catapult is in prime position to provide this."
