Computer and technology repairs company Fortress Computers has been awarded the money from the Finance for Business North-East Microloan Fund managed by Rivers Capital Partners.
The Ponteland-based company plans to use the money to support future expansion and will also purchase new equipment to improve its community focused maintenance and repairs service.
Owner Alan Pattinson worked from home for ten years before opening his technology repairs shop in November 2014.
Keen for his business to become an integral part of the Ponteland community, Alan, who has experience as a dementia support worker, wanted to create a home service for elderly people who may struggle with technology.
Fortress Computers also recovers data, fixes computers, repairs handheld devices and sells refurbished PCs.
In need of a cash boost to hire more staff for home visits and purchase initial stock for repairs, Alan was encouraged by financial advisory service What Partnership to apply to the Microloan Fund.
He said: “It was a easy, quick process guided by people with friendly personalities.”
Alan hopes to open up a branch in Newcastle, employing more staff and eventually have a van permanently on the road providing a home service.
He is also keen to provide low signal areas, such as Belsay, Stampfordham and Matfen, with better broadband.
Rivers Capital Partners James Holloway said “It is rewarding to work with a thriving business that aims to be an integral part of the community, as well as providing reliable, high quality services.”
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