Starting and growing a business is rarely a straightforward journey. For many entrepreneurs, securing the right support can make all the difference. Lizzie Gray, Founder and Director of Gray and White Consultancy Limited, understands this first-hand.
With a background in communication, business analysis, and coaching, Lizzie had the expertise to help businesses refine their messaging, but taking her own company to the next level required additional funding.
That’s where The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) came in. Through our interest-free business loan, Lizzie was able to invest in key areas of her business, laying the foundation for long-term success.
About Gray and White Consultancy
Based in Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, Gray and White Consultancy is dedicated to making words work for businesses.
“I specialise in copywriting, tender writing and brand messaging, helping businesses communicate clearly and persuasively, whether that’s through bidding for contracts, refreshing their website copy, or refining their brand voice generally,” Lizzie begins.
“It’s a mix of strategy and storytelling, ensuring their words don’t just sound good but actually get them results.”
Discovering The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity
Lizzie first learned about STWLC through networking with the Charity’s marketing consultant. He introduced her to the opportunity, and the idea of an interest-free loan to support business growth immediately caught her attention.
“I first heard about STWLC through Martin Hageman while networking. He mentioned it as something I should look into, and it stuck with me,” Lizzie recalls.
“The idea of an interest-free loan to support business growth isn’t something you come across every day, and it came at the right time for me when I was looking to take Gray and White to the next stage.”
The Application and Interview Experience
Applying for funding can often be a daunting and lengthy process, but Lizzie found the STWLC application simple and accessible. “It was surprisingly straightforward!” she says.
“The interview wasn’t an interrogation; it was a good conversation about my business, where I wanted to take it, and how the funding would help. Sarah Hope (STWLC Operations Manager & Clerk) and the Trustees were really supportive, and they obviously want to see businesses like mine succeed.”
“The funding gave me the breathing space to make investments in my business, but more than that, it was a huge confidence boost.”
Using the Loan to Drive Business Growth
The interest-free loan from STWLC allowed Lizzie to lay a strong foundation for her business.
“I used it to establish physical premises, update my marketing, qualifications and website, and invest in a car to travel more easily to meet clients,” Lizzie explains.
“That face-to-face time has been a real game-changer. It’s made a huge difference in building relationships and securing work.”
The Impact of STWLC on Gray and White Consultancy
For Lizzie, the loan was more than just financial support – it also helped to increase confidence.
“The funding gave me the breathing space to make investments in my business, but more than that, it was a huge confidence boost,” she reflects.
“Knowing that an organisation believed in my business enough to back it really helped.”
Lizzie wholeheartedly recommends STWLC to other business owners who meet the criteria and need funding to grow: ” I always recommend STWLC to other business owners. If you need funding to grow and meet the criteria, it’s well worth looking into.”
If you’re an entrepreneur looking for a way to take your business to the next level, STWLC could provide the support you need to turn your vision into reality.
If you’re aged between 18-45 and reside in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland, please click here to find out if you’re eligible for our interest-free business loan.
To contact Gray and White Consultancy, email lizzie@grayandwhiteconsultancy.co.uk