BT’s leasinng scheme to help start-ups

TELECOMS group BT has launched a finance scheme offering start-ups across the North West the chance to lease up to £15,000 worth of technology and telecoms equipment.

Under the ‘KickStart Scheme’ in conjunction with Shire Leasing, new businesses trading for under three years will be eligible for funding subject to credit checks.
 
The KickStart Scheme, available through the BT Local Business network, aims to help small businesses raise funds in a challenging economic climate and to avoid having to rely on bank loans, overdrafts or credit cards.
      
The scheme is open to all industry types and has very flexible underwriting, aimed at delivering higher acceptance levels for new-start companies. An average £3,000 loan will cost less than £20 per week and can be added to as the business grows.

Mike Blackburn, BT’s North West regional director, said: “The UK has an average of 270,000 start-up businesses every year, with around 24,000 launched in the North West in 2009 alone.

“In light of the current economic climate we want to help these businesses access the products and services they need to get their new venture up and running. Our ‘KickStart Scheme’ offers finance over a fixed term, at a fixed rate, making it easier for customers to budget.”

More information is available at www.btlocalbusiness.co.uk