Cheltenham African events catering business boosted with start-up loan

An African events catering and coffee shop business based in Gloucestershire is set to advance, thanks to a £25,000 start-up loan from SWIG Finance.

The money will support the launch of the catering business at ACELBA, including premises and equipment costs, as well as marketing and inventory.

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ACELBA in Cheltenham, which opened at the end of August, is led by Angele Baku-Attipoe, an experienced chef and kitchen manager. It specialises in Togolese and Ghanian cuisine.

Over the next 12 months, she will be growing her team to include a barista and kitchen assistants.

Angele said: "This funding is an invaluable resource to my business. Without it, I may not have been able to move forward with my business idea.

"My advisor, Suzy, helped me with the application process and thanks to SWIG Finance, we can now get things done!"

Meanwhile, SWIG's start up loan officer, Suzy Lowe added: "Having worked previously in senior positions within the catering industry, Angele has built a strong reputation in her local community and is well-known for her high-quality and interesting menus.

"This new enterprise is based on ambition and sector experience, coupled with a huge dose of enthusiasm – working with Angele on her application has been a breath of fresh air!"

SWIG Finance is a people-based company that provides loans and support to help smaller businesses in the South and West grow.