Bristol-based Naval Architect and Boat Design business, ENPLO Ltd, is one of the latest to receive SWIG Finance funding via The Start Up Loans Company.
The £15,000 loan will be used to provide working capital to cover initial repair costs and marketing expenses while the business establishes its profile.
ENPLO Ltd is a unique business which provides consultancy on all aspects of ship and boat design, including repairs and new designs for their customers.
Business owner, Despoina Karanta, is passionate about sustainability and this value is translated into the business by converting heritage vessels into greener battery powered designs, making the boats more efficient while reducing the carbon footprint.
Despoina is a qualified naval architect and marine engineer, she has also obtained a professional diploma in yacht and boat design. Her robust background will play a significant role in the success of her business.
Of the funding, Despoina said “I am very grateful to Sarah and SWIG Finance for their assistance in securing this Start Up Loan, the funding will play a pivotal role in launching the business. Sarah is very knowledgeable and was able to provide advice throughout the application process”.
SWIG Finance Business Manager, Sarah Osborn, led the deal. She commented “This is an exciting and unique female-led business that has been launched into a male-dominated industry. We believe that Despoina will be very successful with her venture and we look forward to seeing how the business evolves”.
Richard Bearman, Managing Director at Start Up Loans, said: “Start Up Loans is here to help people like Despoina Karanta gain access to the funding and support they need to start a business. What Despoina has achieved with ENPLO Ltd is commendable and I’m proud Start Up Loans has played a part in helping her and so many others across the country to realise their ambition of business ownership.”