Banks prep for SME growth

Research from NatWest and the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) indicates that 33% of SMEs see growth as an immediate priority for their company, writes Cambridge Network.

In response, the two UK banks have released an online support and advice Web site designed to help businesses trade their way out of the recession.

“We've listened to our business customers and are pleased to offer this new support to help them make the most of future opportunities,” says Peter Peter Ibbetson, chairman for small business, NatWest and RBS.

Blue Sky Private Equity has unveiled a $50 million EC2010 PE Fund in Brisbane, says the Queensland Business Review.

The fund targets institutional and self-managed fund investors to build on Blue Sky's SME space.

Blue Sky says it typically takes a significant minority stake in its invested companies and works with the owners to grow their business rather than provide them with an immediate exit.

Saskatchewan, Canada, is inviting Indian entrepreneurs to take over small to medium-size enterprises (SMEs) with no succession plans, reports Calcutta Tube.

“Nearly 40% of SMEs do not have succession plans. In order to have continuity of business, we invite Indian entrepreneurs to explore the acquisition of such SMEs,” says Rob Norris, minister for advanced education, employment, labour and immigration.

The province is also urging students to stay back and pursue businesses and professions.