My name is Maria Ramsdale, and I am an Access to Finance specialist with over 30 years of experience in banking and finance. As a Cumbrian lass born and bred, I am passionate about the region and its businesses. This is the very reason I joined Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Cumbria Business Growth Hub, as I knew I could make a difference by providing support on raising finance, helping with grant applications and other funding to our hugely successful business community. I have worked with various industries, including shipbuilding, nuclear energy, and a wide range of innovative manufacturing, encompassing everything from baby milk to jet engine components, door manufacturers, submarine builders, robotically engineered machines used by NASA, playground equipment manufacturers, papermakers, architectural designers, and many skilled precision engineering companies. Fantastic food and drinks production – everything from award-winning cheese, cakes, and chutney to an extensive array of gins and whiskies. Additionally, I've helped several excellent tourism-based businesses, ranging from small bed and breakfasts to renowned hotels with all the services that support this sector.

What I love about my role is combining my passion for Cumbria with my drive to support local businesses.  The funds I’ve raised have been used to help companies grow through purchasing new machinery, expanding premises, hiring new staff or providing growth capital. I pride myself on being able to understand and relate to not only the day-to-day obstacles and challenges faced by a Cumbrian business owner, but also the challenges and the funding requirements that can come with growth.

In my opinion, there is nothing more satisfying than watching a business I have supported go from strength to strength. Growth can only happen if it is adequately financed, and the funding also comes with many additional benefits, such as advice, support, and signposting, either through my extensive network of contacts or via Cumbria Business Growth Hub.

I’m a practical deliverer and can help businesses build a strong cash flow, write a business plan, understand their accounts, and introduce them to several funders who can turn their goals into reality. When I’m not raising finance, I work on my other business, a successful Airbnb in Spain, and spend a lot of time walking my dogs and enjoying the local countryside.