Channelglaze Ltd, based in Tyseley in Birmingham, secured £60,000 in funding from business investment specialists UKSE and a further £20,000 grant via Central Business Finance to invest in a 3D printer.

Established in 1979, Channelglaze Ltd are members of the Inland Waterways Association and design, manufacture and supply aluminium windows for narrowboats, canal boats and barges.

The 3D printer will enable the business to print the tools needed to produce the aluminium porthole frame, streamlining the existing manufacturing process and reducing unnecessary waste. It is hoped that the investment in the new equipment will create two additional roles.

Providing strategic loan and equity packages of up to £1m to generate growth, UKSE’s West Midlands team create local job opportunities and bolster the economy by supporting SMEs across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire and Telford.

Central Business Finance are commercial finance brokers based in St Paul’s Square, Birmingham – helping SMEs of all sizes with a full range of commercial finance products and grant funding.

Welcoming the investment, Channelglaze Director David Pearson commented: “At Channelglaze, we pride ourselves on producing windows for the Inland Waterways for over 40 years. We have extensive knowledge and expertise within the team and the investment in a 3D printer will allow us to continue to innovate provide the unrivalled quality service we are known for.

“We will now be able to print our tools inhouse, rather than use external manufacturers, which will reduce waste and speed up the manufacturing process.”

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank UKSE and Central Business Finance for their support.”

UKSE Regional Executive Mike Lowe commented: “We are pleased to have delivered the funding that Channelglaze need to innovate and grow the business.

“Channelglaze is a great example of a manufacturing business who are looking to grow, innovate and prosper to secure their future.”

Central Business Finance Director Alison Bradley added: “I’m particularly pleased that we have been able to help Channelglaze to innovate, through sourcing suitable finance. This is exactly where we can add value to a business that is seeking funding or finance and it’s been a pleasure to work with Dave to secure both the loan and the grant.”