North Shields-based metalwork business, AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd has received a five-figure investment to help scale up production and drive growth.
Having established AMS in October 2024, founders and long-time friends Ali Balçin and Scott Hall began to look for funding to help the business acquire the equipment necessary to expand operations.
The Start-up Funding Route
Guided by TEDCO’s Bill Hartshorne, Ali and Scott applied for a loan from Business Enterprise Fund delivered through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. As a result, they were able to secure a five-figure loan and enable the business to take on bigger and more ambitious contracts in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and nuclear.
The funding has since enabled the company to invest in better machinery and upgrade production processes. Speaking on AMS’s early months in business and the importance of the start-up loan, Ali says,
“Starting my own business was a leap of faith but securing the Start Up Loan gave us the boost we needed.
Investing in the right equipment has made a huge difference, and having the freedom to build something with Scott has been incredibly rewarding.
We’re excited for what’s ahead as we grow and take on bigger projects.”
“Scott and I have been really lucky that we gained traction quickly through word-of-mouth referrals and strategic networking, but the Start Up Loan is going to help us propel things even further.”
The fledgling company already provides welding, fabrication and repair services nationwide and is now eyeing a larger premises to support its expansion.
Claire Constable, investment manager at BEF, who helped Ali secure the Start Up Loan, added: “It’s been fantastic working with Ali and seeing his business flourish.
“His dedication to his craft and vision for AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd is inspiring.
“We’re proud to have provided the funding that will help him take the business to the next level.”
TEDCO’s Bill Hartshorne on their Start-up Funding
“AMS is a business that is going places quickly. It’s been fantastic to work with Ali and Scott through the early months of their careers as new business owners and I’m confident that they will go from strength to strength over the coming months and years.
“Their start-up story also highlights the value of the Business Enterprise Fund, which makes vital funding available to early stage businesses that need investment in order to accelerate their growth.”
If you’re thinking about starting a business of your own, TEDCO is here to help. Register at www.tedco.org