Established in 2002, GC Business Finance has a proven track record in supporting SMEs. Through our alternative finance products, we help growing businesses, unable to obtain funding through a mainstream lender such as a high street bank, to achieve their goals.
A Year of Dates Secures £75k Funding to Fuel Growth and Global Expansion
Bolton-based gifting brand A Year of Dates has secured a £75,000 loan through the NPIF II – GC Business Finance & River Capital Smaller Loans, delivered as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).
Founded in 2016 by Kate Greenhalgh, A Year of Dates is built on a simple but powerful idea – helping people make time for each other. The business creates experience-based gift sets that encourage meaningful moments, whether through cosy nights in or adventurous days out.
The inspiration began with a heartfelt Christmas gift from Kate’s husband John: a jar filled with 52 envelopes, each containing a date idea for every week of the year. The thoughtful gesture resonated with friends and sparked the idea for a business. Two years later, Kate launched A Year of Dates while on maternity leave.
Today, the company has grown from a single product to over 50 variations – including birthday editions, couples’ challenges and family-focused gifts – available on its own website and popular platforms like Etsy and Amazon. With more than 100,000 units sold globally, the business now operates from its Bolton headquarters with a team of seven.
However, like many seasonal businesses, A Year of Dates faces stock and cash flow pressures during busy periods such as Christmas and Valentine’s Day. To help navigate these challenges and invest in future growth, Kate secured the £75k NPIF II loan.
This funding will support restocking ahead of peak periods and enable Kate to expand the product range and reach new international markets – including the US and Australia.
“A Year of Dates has come so far over the past few years, and we’re eager to continue growing both in the UK and internationally,” said Kate Greenhalgh, founder of A Year of Dates.
“Expanding the business was always a goal, but I was concerned about the current economic state and cost-of-living crisis. However, the support I received from GC Business Finance has been incredible – they guided me every step of the way. I’d encourage any business looking to grow to explore the help that’s out there.”
Andy Nichols, Investment Manager at GC Business Finance, added:
“Kate has built a fantastic business that helps people create lasting memories. Through NPIF II, we’re proud to be supporting her next chapter. Backing female founders like Kate is key to a more diverse and thriving business landscape in the North.”
Sue Barnard, Senior Manager at the British Business Bank, said:
“It’s great to see a Bolton business using NPIF II to create local jobs and pursue global growth. This fund is helping unlock potential across the region and bring Northern talent to an international stage.”
About the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II
The £660 million NPIF II provides business loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to support small and medium-sized businesses across the North. Its goal is to drive sustainable economic growth by backing innovation, creating local jobs, and increasing access to finance for businesses that may otherwise be overlooked.
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GC Business Finance