Nottingham-based Vision4Sport Events has secured £300,000 debt finance from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II to support its sports hospitality business.
Founded in 2014 by former professional golfers Chris Newbold and Karl Wesson, V4SE has grown from a side venture into a provider of elite event packages for private clients, including Wimbledon, Formula One, the Ryder Cup, and exclusive golf tours. With demand steadily increasing, V4SE has achieved a strong post-pandemic recovery, reaching a projected turnover of over £3m in 2024.
The £300,000 new investment will provide additional working capital that will help drive strategic growth across key areas, including an expanded presence at global events such as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Las Vegas Grand Prix, and The Players Championship at Sawgrass. To support this growth, V4SE will create new local roles in sales, business development, and finance.
Chris Newbold said: “Like many businesses, the pandemic had a huge impact on us and our ability to operate. The investment from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II and the support Maven has shown will allow us to grow the business to new heights with some exciting projects and events being added to the portfolio.
“In the short time since completion, we have already added to our workforce and look forward to further recruitment over the coming months and years. Investment has often felt like a daunting prospect in the past but the clear dialogue with the Maven team throughout the process along with their clear support for what we do, has been extremely helpful and encouraging.”
Jonathan Lowe, Partner – Regional Debt Funds at Maven, said: “We are pleased to support Vision4Sport as they enter this exciting new chapter. Their resilience and dedication to exceptional service, even through recent challenges, are a testament to their strength in the sports hospitality sector. Our investment will provide V4SE with the capital, expertise, and strategic insight to continue building on a solid foundation, realising ambitious growth plans, and seizing new opportunities in the market.”
Jody Tableporter, Director at British Business Bank, said: “The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II was launched to help ambitious entrepreneurs and small businesses to scale up and grow. This investment in Vision4Sport further highlights the importance of having access to the right type of finance at the right time. It will enable the business to expand, create new jobs, and make a positive impact in the region.”