The challenge of finding enough cash to fund enterprise tops the agenda at a conference of business angels next week.

The fourth annual conference of the British Business Angel Association (BBAA) is being held at Brands Hatch on June 19.

It offers a chance to learn what investors really want and hear how companies have raised money.

Guest speakers include Government minister Baroness Shriti Vadera, Jeremy Hand, chairman of the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), and Professor Russel Griggs of the CBI, the business lobby group.

The event, hosted by Finance South East, will examine the so-called Ladder of Finance said to be available for businesses at every stage.

The Government recently unveiled a new enterprise strategy that aims to give easier access to investment.

Delegates will look at the challenges still facing ambitious businesses needing finance to grow.

Experts will debate the issues in an attempt to match the needs of businesses with the demand for financial returns from investors.

Finance South East is a not-for-profit organisation that works with the private and public sectors to invest in ambitous, high-growth companies. It is backed by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).

Over the past few years, it has invested more than £5m a year in businesses across Kent, Medway and the rest of the South East,

Finance South East chief executive Sally Goodsell said: "Finance South East is hosting this conference as part of our commitment to developing the informal investment market in the UK and Europe.

"If British enterprise is to develop companies must be able to win the funding support they need while investors benefit from a healthy return on investment. Together academics, government, businesses and all of us in the investment community can achieve a connected marketplace."

Ticket details are available at www.bbaa.org.uk