Challenge Capital Ventures

Challenge Capital Ventures was formed in response to requests from clients for us to get more involved in the business and not merely be to be there to guide them through a transaction.

We don’t have a prescriptive approach so the following examples are intended to provide an illustration of how we already operate rather than to set out a limited menu of what is available;

Support in a non-executive capacity

When we provide advisory support, we do more than run a process; we take a proactive role in challenging and forming the strategy for the business and the shareholders. After all, if we are to find a funder or new owner who will see the value in a business, the core business strategy is at the heart of that value. When the transaction is done, the need for that support doesn’t go away. We can help on an ongoing basis in a non-executive capacity, providing

When the transaction is done, the need for that support doesn’t go away. We can help on an ongoing basis in a non-executive capacity, providing constructive challenge on the way in which the strategy is implemented and its continuing appropriateness.

We bring a wealth of experience across a range of business sizes and sectors. One of the things that is common to all is the fact that leadership can be a lonely place. Sometimes the company of someone who has been there and done it is as valuable as what they have to say!

This support doesn’t only follow on from a transaction. It can come as part of the preparation for an imminent deal or part of a long-term plan. Often itissimply part of business as usual.

Taking an executive role

We don’t run away from the challenge of rolling up our sleeves and getting involved in the hard work. Where appropriate, and usually in an interim role, we are happy to act in an executive capacity. We will only do this when we have something to offer and there is a clear mutual understanding of what we are being asked to deliver.

There aren’t many advisors who are prepared to take this step. We think it works both ways; it makes us better advisors because we truly understand our client’s challenges and it makes us better executives as our varied background allows us to bring a much wider perspective to a role.

Other roles

We are open minded; if we can add value, we are prepared to consider a wide range of other roles.

It will come as no surprise that we have wide and varied networks that we haven’t made available to LinkedIn! In a number of situations, we have proactively engaged our networks to help clients enter a new market; we have even entered into a formal sales agency with one of them, where we are working hard to deliver sales and to build their presence in that new market.