Local entrepreneurs can seek expert advice and news on interest-free loans at a free networking event next week.

Participants can network with like-minded people, hear about an interest-free business loans scheme and speak with companies who have already made successful applications.

The scheme, called Escalate, will offer interest-free loans to existing companies in west Kent and east Sussex to encourage them to create jobs and expand.

A total of £5.5 million is available and is coming through the government’s Regional Growth Fund.

The aim of Escalate is to create and protect 1,250 jobs through more than 150 businesses, helping those who have struggled to secure bank loans.

The loans must be used for specific projects that create jobs, support business expansion and help attract additional private investment.

Cities minister and Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark said: “This is a great boost for business in west Kent.

“This is a great boost for business in west Kent" - Greg Clark...

"Business finance is still a big issue for many companies that want to expand.

"The loan fund provides a new source of funding for ambitious firms in west Kent that really want to grow and take more people on.”

A free breakfast will be provided at the meeting on Friday, October 3 at the Brands Hatch Thistle Hotel in West Kingsdown from 8am to 11am.

To register visit: www.bsk-cic.co.uk/events/time-to-escalate-your-business

Cllr Roddy Hogarth, the Council’s cabinet member for business, said: "Not only will business advisors be on hand to explain how the fund works and how to apply, but there will be a chance to network with like-minded people and what’s more, a free breakfast to start the day off the right way!"

The event will cover:

• West Kent - where ambitious businesses are going to grow

• Creating a modern, social business

• Escalate – the fund and how to make it work for your business

• Why alternative finance is growing so quickly

• Panel – Escalate success stories

• Keynote speaker – senior Government Minister

It is hosted by the West Kent Partnership partnering with Kent County Council, Business Support Kent and the Federation of Small Businesses.