The event celebrates the Midlands’ mergers and acquisitions profession and has become a go-to commercial finance event in the region, with more than 750 people in attendance each year.

UKSE’s shortlisting recognises the significant, meaningful impact that the social impact funder has had in the West Midlands since it completed its first deal in the region in October 2023.

Focussing on SMEs unable to secure support from High Street lenders but with strong opportunities to create growth and deliver employment opportunities through innovation, UKSE has already enabled a diverse range of firms to begin the next phases in their journeys.

Steve Grice, UKSE area manager for the Midlands, commented: “We are very pleased to have made the shortlist for the Midlands Dealmakers Awards.

“UKSE is committed to making a positive contribution to the region through investments in businesses that make up the backbone of the local economy, all while supporting community projects as part of a drive to give back.

“We want businesses across the West Midlands to know there is help out there for them.”

Providing strategic loan and equity packages of up to £1m to generate growth, create local job opportunities and bolster the economy, UKSE’s West Midlands team based in Cannock was set up in 2023 to support SMEs across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire and Telford.

UKSE provides investment in a range of scenarios including business acquisitions, management buyouts, company expansions or the purchase of new equipment.

Since it was established in 1975, UKSE has invested over £115m, supporting 8,000 businesses, stimulating the creation of an estimated 83,000 new jobs.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Insider Midlands Dealmakers Awards. The winners will be unveiled at an awards ceremony on 12 September at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel.