Connect Midlands Investment Showcase

The tenth annual Connect Midlands Investment Conference (CMIC) will be held at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry on 18th November 2010.

We are currently looking for the Midland’s most exciting technology and high growth companies, seeking investment of up to £5m, to present to an audience of venture capitalists, business angels and professionals in corporate finance brokering.

What is CMIC?

The Connect Midlands Investment Conference brings together the most exciting technology enterprises from the East and West Midlands and provides the premier showcase for ‘investment ready’ companies to present to investors and network with the investment community.

The benefits to you:

The sole purpose of the day is to give entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their business and their current practical and financial needs to investors, advisors and potential partners.

At the Conference each presenting company will have:

· an 8 minute presentation slot to present the basics of their idea, their business plan and their business needs

· allocated time in the programme to conduct further discussions with investors

· a professional exhibition stand to display their products and enable further discussions and networking with investors

· a 2 page summary of the company and their proposition in the event pack

· a 200 word summary of the company and their proposition on the Connect Midlands website

Furthermore

· our experienced staff and assessors will help all presenting companies to prepare and rehearse prior to the conference

· the restricted numbers for presenting companies ensure that each company is given high profile and gains the full attention of delegates

Are you eligible to present?

	Early stage (typically in first 5 years) with an established corporate structure
	Based in the East or West Midlands
	Potential for significant growth (i.e. to provide a return on a risk investment)
	Clear product and business model
	Typically have already received some seed funding (perhaps through soft funds) and are looking for 2^nd or 3^rd stage investment in the region £500k - £5m
	Investment ready - clear on why investment is needed, how much is needed, what new investment will be used for, how this will bring growth and rewards, and proposed exit routes for new investors

If your company meets the following requirements, apply now to secure your place at the Connect Midlands Investment Conference.

If your company does not fit these criteria?

We have alternative programmes and events available. Please contact us on 02476 323309 and let us assess whether one of our many events will be the right vehicle for you to raise the funds you need.

The audience

The audience is made up of early-stage venture capitalists, regional business angels and networks, business advisors and large technology companies looking for partnerships or investments.

The process

On receiving your application, an assessment of your suitability will be made by Connect Midlands and our expert team of advisors. During the assessment we may ask for further information.

All information supplied to us during the application process will be treated as confidential. The event itself should not be treated as confidential. The number of presenter places is limited and the application process is competitive. As a result, some applicants may be advised that more preparatory work is required.

The assessment will be based on a number of criteria. In particular:

· the uniqueness and readiness of the technology

· the potential market size, the competition and your current market position

· your business model and route to market

· the growth potential of the company

· your experience and your commitment to the idea

If your company is accepted, we provide rehearsal opportunities and training to help finalists to give a clear, concise and credible pitch on the day.

Your commitment

We will require your participation in assessment and training panels and at the Connect Midlands Investment Conference itself. This is a full day and companies will be required to arrive early.

We will also keep in touch and ask you to report quarterly on your progress during the 12 months following the Conference.

Costs

The cost, which applies only if you are selected to present at the Connect Midlands Investment Conference, is just £500+vat. This includes all training and presentation practice prior to the event, plus an exhibition stand and two delegate places for the Conference itself, including lunch and all refreshments.

Presentation at the Conference is also conditional on companies entering into an agreement with Connect Midlands. This agreement includes terms stating that if, as a result of participating in the Investment Conference, your company receives an acceptable offer for funding in a term sheet or similar document, whether by way of equity, debt or grant, then your company shall pay a fee of 2% of funds raised to Connect Midlands in consideration of the services provided.

Additional delegate places (that is, more than the two allocated), expenses, travel and accommodation are not included in this price.

To register your interest

If you are interested in presenting at the Connect Midlands Investment Conference, you should apply as soon as possible. Places are strictly limited and early applications mean that we are able to help you to refine your business plan and investor pitch for the Conference.

For further information or to apply, contact

West Midlands Companies richard@connectmidlands.org 02476 323320

East Midlands Companies paul@connectmidlands.org 01509 228706

For more information on the Connect Midlands Investment Conference including the programme and directions, please visit our website at www.connectmidlands.co.uk

Present at CMIC