Entrepreneurialism is a tough game; forming contacts and gaining access to investment can be a real slog even at the best of times. But for young entrepreneurs who might be making their first foray into the world of business, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Fortunately, there are plenty of organisations out there looking to give them a helping hand, including MMC Ventures and the Institute of Directors (IoD), which have announced a new partnership to support the next generation of high-growth businesses.
In a nutshell, the new programme will bring together members of the IoD 99, a network for young business owners and entrepreneurs, and MMC Venture’s Growth Generation Fund, a fund that provides the next generation of investors with access to low cost, venture capital investment opportunities. Its main focus will be on creating a series of events attempting to break down the barriers for entry for young entrepreneurs, with the first on the slate being a joint session focusing on finding funding for a business idea.
“We’re looking forward to working with the Institute of Directors and their 99 Club cohort,” said Bruce Macfarlane, managing partner of MMC Ventures. “The growth of young entrepreneurial spirit in the UK is great news and it is important that we work together to support young talent with the barriers they may face.”
“We’re really excited about this partnership with MMC Ventures,” said Simon Walker, director general of the IoD. “Our two organisations certainly share the same values around nurturing young, entrepreneurial talent and we’re confident that both 99 Club members and Growth Generation Fund investors will reap the benefits of this partnership.”
Any scheme that aims to help young entrepreneurs or investors is admirable. But bringing them together definitely seems like a great way to stimulate the aspiring stars of the start-up community. 
