A SCHEME to help hi-tech Oxfordshire businesses to track down cash backing was launched today, writes David Duffy.

Business Link Heart of England has brought together a panel of finance executives to examine proposals for funding and help to make businesses "investment ready".

Business Link finance adviser Paul Coleman said: "We have set up this service to help businesses expand and grow. It can take a lot of time and effort to find and approach investors and it is often difficult for a busy manager or owner to understand the sort of priorities they need to present.

"That is why we have set up this panel of experts who will look at the business plan, talk to the owner/manager and give genuine impartial advice".

The panels, which will meet at regular intervals to assess business cases, are made up of representatives of Grant Thornton, the Oxford Investment Opportunities Network, Barclays Bank, Egan and Talbot and Business Link Heart of England.

Mr Coleman said each member of the panel had agreed to provide impartial advice without any bias to their own organisations.

The service is aimed specifically at Oxfordshire businesses with a technological bias, whether in manufacturing or service, and at any stage of development.

The first panel meets on the May 16 and businesses are invited to submit applications to Mr Coleman at Business Link by May 11. He can be contacted on 01235 468000.