A Bristol-based sustainable sanitary products company has secured half a million pounds to expand internationally.
Grace and Green was founded by Frances Lucraft in 2019 after a decade spent in the water and sanitation sector and witnessing the "damaging impact" of period products on the environment.
The registered B Corporation sells its products online and in retailers including including 150 Boots stores across the 海角视频.
The cash injection from the British Business Bank's South West Investment Fund - via fund manager The FSE Group - will be used to support the growth of the business including the development of a new sustainable product range, international expansion and a move into the incontinence market.
Ms Lucraft said the funding, which was part of a 拢1.3m raise, would help bring the company's "ground-breaking... sustainable products" to more businesses and individuals.
She said: 鈥淭his investment marks a hugely important milestone for Grace & Green. FSE鈥檚 belief in us, commitment to supporting our journey, and patience throughout the fundraising process has been invaluable.
"Only 1.8% of funding goes to women-led businesses, so support from FSE is not only fantastic, it鈥檚 vital in helping to close that gap. We鈥檙e grateful to both FSE and the South West Investment Fund for this crucial funding."
Anna Staevska, investment manager at The FSE Group, said: 鈥淭his innovative business, with its solid operational foundations, strong IP prospects and high sustainability credentials, demonstrates great potential for growth.
"The Grace & Green team have exciting plans, including strategic partnerships with key distribution chains, and we鈥檙e delighted to be supporting this female-founded and led business.鈥
Paul Jones, senior investment manager from the British Business Bank, added: 鈥淕race & Green combines a clear social mission to provide accessible and inclusive menstrual care, with a deep commitment to minimise the environmental impact of menstrual products."
The purpose of the South West Investment Fund offers a range of commercial finance options with smaller loans from 拢25k to 拢100k, debt finance from 拢100k to 拢2m and equity investment up to 拢5m.
