For the first 15 years of my career, I worked with top global banks, evaluating and structuring multi-million-pound loans for businesses, culminating in my role as Head of UK Corporate Banking at a prominent Japanese bank. I then transitioned into financial publishing, where I built a startup into a European market leader, which was later acquired by a major USA company, leading to my appointment with them as Managing Director for Europe.

 

However, I've also faced business setbacks. I launched a startup in New York with angel and VC funding, which unfortunately failed due to the dot-com crash in 2000, teaching me invaluable lessons at a significant cost. Additionally, I created one of the first online estate agencies, but it struggled to gain traction due to resistance from traditional agents, who pressured advertising platforms to exclude us. Later, I founded a social enterprise in renewable energy with corporate backing and served an advisor to the UK Government on community energy. And, recently, have worked with a grant provider reviewing charity applications and for a consultancy firm assisting tech startups with grant writing.

 

In summary, I have a wealth of diverse experiences, both positive and negative, in various sectors and countries, which have deepened my understanding of the challenges of starting and running a business. Having worked with funders and secured funding myself, I know what they seek and how they think. I also recognize that the UK fundraising landscape is flawed, with around 80% of grant applications and 90% VC applications, failing. That's why at 73, I founded Fundability, to leverage my expertise in helping startups secure funding and support their need for growth. I also advocate for improvements in the fundraising system.

 

If you believe my insights could assist you on your fundraising journey, please feel free to schedule a time for an exploratory conversation. I'm eager to help you grow your business!