A new investment academy is launching to help county businesses realise their full potential.

Advisors at Boost - Lancashire Business Growth Hub's access to finance service - is behind the move to secure equity investment for firms.

An initial 20 business leaders will be guided through the process this September and October in face-to-face sessions.

Key areas like developing a value proposition, how to identify and pitch to investors, concepts around valuing their business and HMRC initiatives will all be covered.

Investment experts, including equity providers, legal and intellectual property specialists, university leaders and branding experts, will offer masterclasses alongside workshop hosted by access to finance team members.

Mark Gibbons, Boost's lead advisor, said: “Since relaunching the access to finance service in February as part of Boost, our expert team has been helping Lancashire businesses find and secure funding through our one-to-one support.

“Equity investment is one of the most difficult forms of funding for businesses to secure but having a deep understanding of your business finances and funding strategy significantly increases your chances of success.

"Our new academy has been designed to provide businesses with this knowledge by working with the very best experts from across the county. By taking part, business leaders will gain a strong understanding of whether they are ready for external investment, the right option for them and how to find and secure it.”

An online launch event will take place on July 10 to given an overview of the academy's aims and invite expressions of interest.

County Cllr Aidy Riggott, cabinet member of economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council said: “Growing businesses create local jobs and wealth.

"External investment gives businesses the fuel to grow quicker than they would organically, however, many of our county’s businesses are not simply not accessing funding.

“Improving Lancashire businesses’ access to investment is a key goal for Lancashire County Council and the new investment academy is an important part of that."

Firms can register for the launch event via the Boost website.