From bold ideas to scalable brands – a £250,000 growth opportunity for equestrian and pet innovators

For many entrepreneurs in the equestrian and pet sectors, the challenge is not a lack of ideas or ambition. It is bridging the gap between a strong concept and the commercial, operational and financial support needed to build a sustainable business.

That gap is exactly what a new investment initiative from David Mitson, owner of HLM Investment Group, is designed to address. With up to £250,000 ringfenced, the opportunity invites start-ups and early-stage businesses to pitch not only for funding, but also for hands-on, long-term commercial backing.

After the introduction, David is clear that money alone rarely creates lasting success. In specialist sectors such as equestrian and pet, growth depends on experience, infrastructure and strategy as much as capital.

Why This Opportunity Was Created

David and his team are regularly contacted by innovators with strong products or services who are struggling to gain traction. Common barriers include limited capital, lack of operational support, challenges around logistics and supply chains, and uncertainty about how to access the market.

Traditional funding routes exist, but David believes they often fall short. Loans can provide cash, but they do not offer the commercial insight or operational expertise needed to scale. With so many passionate entrepreneurs and strong ideas in these sectors, creating a platform to support the next stage of their journey felt like a natural step.

More Than A Dragons’ Den Pitch

While the format includes pitching for equity investment, this is not a rigid, television-style process. The platform is intentionally flexible, with no one-size-fits-all approach.

Businesses are encouraged to be open about what they need, whether that is financial investment, marketing support, route-to-market guidance or operational infrastructure. The aim is to build tailored partnerships that support long-term growth, rather than short-term wins.

Lessons Learned From Building Global Brands

David’s approach is shaped by experience. He has helped take evoke and Science Supplements from start-up brands to globally recognised, award-winning, multi-million turnover businesses.

Having a great product and clear identity is only the starting point. In a relatively small and competitive industry, long-term success relies on understanding the market, defining a clear commercial position and ensuring products are viable at scale. David has seen many brands fail, not through lack of quality, but through lack of strategy and operational planning.

Who Should Put Themselves Forward

This opportunity is open to a wide range of businesses. Early-stage start-ups, fledgling brands and more established companies looking to accelerate growth are all encouraged to apply.

What matters most is passion and potential. Applicants do not need to have everything in place, but they do need belief in their product or idea and a willingness to take their business further. Services and technology platforms are equally welcome, reflecting the evolving nature of both sectors.

What Will Set Strong Applicants Apart

When shortlisting, David places passion at the top of the list. If founders are not excited about what they are building, it is unlikely to inspire confidence elsewhere.

Beyond enthusiasm, applicants should demonstrate a clear vision, understanding of their market and competitors, and realistic knowledge of pricing and margins. A strong pitch will outline a credible three- to five-year plan and show that the groundwork has already been done, even if the strategy is still evolving.

Confidence also plays a key role. Founders need to believe in their business and be ready to articulate why it deserves investment and support.

Flexible Investment And Hands-On Support

With £250,000 available, HLM Investment Group may choose to invest in one business or several. Equity levels and deal structures will vary depending on individual requirements and potential.

Successful applicants will receive far more than funding. Support will span logistics, sales, marketing, legal and wider operational functions, matching the level of backing provided to HLM’s existing portfolio businesses.