New “Investment Room” Initiative Launches to Support MK Entrepreneurs
A new Milton Keynes-based initiative is aiming to reshape how local entrepreneurs access support, bringing together experienced business leaders to offer a combination of investment, mentorship and real-world guidance.
The Investment Room has been launched as a collective of operators who have built and led businesses themselves and are now working together to support ventures across MK postcodes.
The concept is rooted in a simple idea: many early-stage businesses struggle not just because of a lack of funding, but because they lack access to people who have navigated the realities of building and scaling a company.
Rather than operating as a traditional angel network, The Investment Room has been designed to go further than capital alone. The group is focused on actively working with founders, sharing insight, opening up networks and providing hands-on support throughout the growth journey.
The initiative has been brought together by Milton Keynes business leader Colin Gleghorn, who believes the region is rich in entrepreneurial talent but often lacks the kind of practical, experience-led backing that can make a lasting difference.
“Milton Keynes is full of ambition and innovation,” he said. “But many entrepreneurs are trying to build businesses largely on their own. What we want to provide is a room full of experienced people who have faced those challenges before and can help others navigate them.”
The collective brings together a range of backgrounds spanning entrepreneurship, international trade, consultancy, corporate leadership and business transformation.
Among the founding members is Shalom Lloyd MBE, founder of Naturally Tiwa Skincare and Emerging Market Quality Trials, known for building internationally recognised businesses with a strong focus on ethical supply chains and social impact.
Charles Mong, a Cambridge-educated engineer, adds experience from investment banking roles at UBS, Lehman Brothers and Nomura, alongside leading international business operations across African markets.
Joanna Fay, co-founder of consultancy firm FAYTH, brings more than two decades of experience delivering transformation and growth programmes across private, public and non-profit sectors. Her work includes supporting organisations through complex change and helping smaller businesses launch and scale, including ventures such as FAYTH Health in Olney.
Together, the group aims to create a more connected and supportive environment for entrepreneurs in Milton Keynes, combining funding with the kind of insight and trusted relationships that are often critical to long-term success.
The launch comes at a time when many startups face increasing pressure. Research suggests that around 60% of UK businesses fail within their first five years, often due to limited access to guidance, experience and networks. By contrast, businesses that receive structured mentorship are significantly more likely to survive and grow.
The Investment Room will now invite entrepreneurs from across the MK postcode area to submit an Expression of Interest via its website. Selected applicants will be invited to present their businesses at a Pitch Day event in Milton Keynes later this summer, where opportunities for investment and support will be explored.
Further details of the event are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Entrepreneurs interested in learning more or submitting an Expression of Interest can visit The Investment Room website or email [email protected].
Main Image: Top row: Shalom Lloyd MBE, Charles Mong and Joanna Fay. Bottom row: Colin Gleghorn.
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