Two new businesses have been given a financial boost after successfully applying for Start-Up Loans.

Thanet-based Kayjaiz Gaming Lounge and the Liberty Group have received £35,000 between them through the Government scheme that supports entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 30.

Start-Up is headed nationally by entrepreneur James Caan, the former Dragons’ Den star, and helps new businesses get off the ground.

In addition to the loans, the budding business people are given mentoring support from experienced professionals who help with business planning and provide advice throughout the loan application process.

Kayjaiz Gaming Lounge is an online social gaming lounge providing interactive gaming and networking software. Business partners Hefain Bygrave and Roxanne Williams also use the platform to encourage exercise and a healthy lifestyle amongst the gaming community, as well as career and educational opportunities within the industry.

The Liberty Group includes three distinct areas covering residential support for young people to prepare them for independent living, courses for anyone not in education, employment or training and outreach support for vulnerable young people. The team of Jojo Rassekh, Michelle Vine and Tobie Heather receive referrals from social services and work closely with a range of other care agencies.

The Let’s Do Business Group (LDBG), the official delivery partner in the South East, brokered the deals with both businesses.
Chief executive Graham Marley said: “The Start-Up Loans programme is making a terrific difference to people who simply need a bit of help to get their business off the ground. This is a substantial investment in Thanet for two very different businesses, but all the people involved possess the same passion and commitment to building their operations into successful long-term companies.”

“In the last seven months, we have supported more than 130 new enterprises in the South East including the award of loans with a value of well over £500,000.”