HIGH Street lenders will be meeting with Suffolk businesses tomorrow – to tell them that, despite the challenging economic times, finance to support businesses in available.

Representatives from lenders including Natwest, Lombard Asset Finance, RBS and Finance East will meet businessmen and women in Ipswich and explain the range of finance options available to local trade and industry.

Peter Funnell, president of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said: “Following the return of confidence to the markets last week after the eurozone crisis was abated, we are encouraged that representatives of major lending groups are meeting with business here in Suffolk to look at how they can work in partnership with us.”

Finance East works specifically with regionally-based business and looks for innovative ways to back new projects.

Earlier this year, working with Suffolk County Council, it invested in a Lowestoft-based project, Scour Prevention Systems, which needed to complete trials, defend and strengthen current patents and set up a sales and marketing infrastructure.

“Finance East was delighted to have supported this excellent local company,” said Trevor Overall from Finance East. “We would like to hear from other innovative companies looking for investment and private investors wishing to find out more about our work.”

Dr Funnell added: “Getting the right financial backing is key to business confidence and key to success.

“That is why we are delighted that not only is their money available, but some of the biggest names from the finance world are meeting with our members to look at how they can work together.”

Tomorrow’s meeting takes place at the Belstead Brook Hotel in Ipswich from 7.30am until 10am and is free of charge. However, those wishing to attend need to register with Suffolk Chamber at www.suffolkchamber.co.uk .