TV Dragon and Branson launch new lender

A TV Dragon has teamed up with the founder of Virgin for the launch of a brand new lender.

E2Exchange, a body of UK entrepreneurs, has teamed up with the Welsh Innovation Center for Enterprise, to launch an FCA-authorised crowdfunding platform known as Ice Dragons.

Both Richard Branson and TV Dragon Duncan Bannatyne are on the board of E2Exchange, according to the firm’s website.

The platform will be a source of finance for high quality start-ups and early-stage businesses, linking experienced investors with high-net-worth professionals.

A minimum of £100 can be invested in businesses on the platform; no maximum limit has been imposed. A number of businesses have already listed for funding.

E2Exchange is reported to be working with a collection of international partners to boost Ice Dragons into a global crowdfunding network.

Shalini Khemka, CEO of E2Exchange, commented: “We are extremely proud to be partnering with the Welsh ICE to launch the Ice Dragons crowd funding platform, which will be an excellent option for our members seeking equity-based finance.

“Despite the nascent economic recovery in the UK many early stage businesses are still finding it difficult to raise funding and the this new initiative, based on the proven crowd funding model, should provide them with a further route to access the capital they need to take full advantage of the opportunities the economic recovery will undoubtedly deliver.”

The concept of the platform was first invented to assist in providing finance for E2Exchange members and Welsh ICE affiliates, as well as the UK’s entrepreneurs.

E2Exchange’s membership includes other UK leading business figures including Darryl Eales, CEO of private equity house LDC.

Adrian Walker, CEO of the new platform commented: “Having the backing of two such outstanding entrepreneur organisations as the Welsh ICE and E2Exchange makes Ice Dragons a unique and compelling crowdfunding proposition.

“Welsh ICE is renowned for its skills and expertise in nurturing early stage businesses, while E2Exchange has a strong track record of supporting entrepreneurs and SMEs by providing the business services and advice that enables them to thrive.

“This gives both organisations excellent insight into the funding issues of SMEs, which makes them such fitting partners for Ice Dragons. Working together, we are confident that we can connect many high-quality businesses with the early stage funding that they need to flourish and expand.”