Bury dressmaker pioneers funding support scheme

A YOUNG entrepreneur from Bury is the first person in the country to benefit from the UK Start-Up Loans for Young People.

Dressmaker Elena Mingas, 24, has won backing from the scheme for ambitious young people with promising business ideas.

The loans for the North West are awarded and delivered by the Business Growth Hub in partnership with Business Finance Solutions and Blue Orchid, giving successful applicants a loan of £2,500 as well as expert mentoring and business support and training.

Elena launched her Tangle Dress Design business this year aiming to make bespoke outfits for women for birthdays, proms, races, awards and other special occasions .

She said: “The Tangle concept is about original design, quality craftsmanship and making unique, tailor made luxury more affordable.”

“Being awarded the Start-Up Loan will give me both the capital and the expert business support and mentoring that I need to tap into the huge business potential of this market.”

Start-Up Loans Chairman James Caan said: “With a start-up loan, entrepreneurs can really take their passion to create a business. With the access to finance, mentors and a range of exclusive business products, we hope to support a whole wave of young entrepreneurs on their journey to success.”

Paul Breen of Business Finance Solutions added:  “Elena’s business passion and vision really shone through her application and she has worked incredibly hard already to set her business up and create a long term plan to make it a success.”