Luxury gifting company lands £200,000 funding line

Imp and Maker, the Lincolnshire luxury food and drink gift company, has secured £200,000 in funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II) and Regional Growth Fund (RF Fund).

The deal has been supported by FundingRound Commercial Finance Specialists and First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans.

Imp and Maker is owned by founder Sarah Louise Fairburn, who has over 20 years of experience in food retail and production.

The funding will be allocated toward stock, marketing and staff costs.

Fairburn said: “It was clear that my business needed additional finance to achieve the ambitious seasonal plans we had as Christmas approached. Whilst I had started discussions with banks, I wasn’t getting the result we needed.

“FundingRound played a pivotal role in positioning our requirements, introducing us to First Enterprise and securing the funds which will support our success. Lenders like First Enterprise are much needed to support the backbone of UK businesses. And we will always be working with FundingRound moving forward as they are the best at understanding entrepreneurs.”

Julia Wilkinson, director at FundingRound, said: “The current market requires lenders who will support expanding SMEs based on forecast-led growth, particularly bearing in mind the environment they’ve operated in over the past few years. CDFIs like First Enterprise play a crucial role in supporting businesses like Imp and Maker, and we are pleased to have First Enterprise fund them and other clients.”

Nabeel Akhter, investment manager at First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, said: “Working with Sarah on the loan application for Imp and Maker has been an inspiring experience. Her passion for quality and innovation in the food gifting industry is truly remarkable. Sarah’s dedication not only to her business but also to sustainability and empowering women in the industry sets her apart. I’m confident that with her leadership and vision, Imp & Maker will continue to thrive.”

David Tindall, senior manager at British Business Bank, added: “We are pleased to be able to support Imp and Maker in its growth journey. This demonstrates how the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II aims to support the region’s businesses by providing alternative financing options and helping companies scale up and grow.”