Roma Finance has formed a strategic partnership with Rise Up Development, becoming the official lending partner for the organisation’s property development education programme.
The initiative is aimed at helping contractors move from delivering construction projects to running their own developments – a transition that remains one of the biggest hurdles for SME players in the sector.
Rise Up Development, founded by industry veterans Robin Hayhurst and Dave Symondson, provides practical training for contractors who want to scale into development but lack the financial, structural or commercial framework to do so.
Its workshops focus on project appraisal, risk management, sourcing opportunities and building the professional networks required to lead a scheme rather than simply build it.
DEVELOPMENT FINANCE
Roma Finance’s involvement will introduce participants to the fundamentals of development finance, from structuring deals and preparing application packs to understanding lender expectations.
The partnership is designed to close the often-cited knowledge gap between technical construction expertise and the financial acumen needed to secure funding for schemes of varying scale.
Both organisations see the collaboration as a way to strengthen the pipeline of new, well-prepared SME developers who can bring forward high-quality housing projects at a time when capacity and delivery remain under pressure across the UK.
EDUCATION AND PREPARATION
Charlotte Rutter (main picture), Head of Marketing and Communications at Roma Finance, says: “We’re delighted to partner with Rise Up Development and support contractors who are ready to take the next step into property development.
“Education and preparation are key to successful lending relationships, and Rise Up’s structured approach aligns perfectly with Roma’s commitment to responsible growth, transparency, and collaboration.
“Together, we’re helping new developers understand what lenders look for, how to mitigate risk, and how to turn ambition into viable, fundable projects.”
KNOWLEDGE AND NETWORK
Dave Symondson, Co-Founder of Rise Up Development, adds: “Our mission is to help ethical, skilled contractors build a stronger future for UK housing by giving them the knowledge and network to succeed.
“Having Roma Finance as our lending partner brings invaluable expertise to our programme, ensuring that our participants are not only development-ready but lender-ready too.
“It’s a partnership built on shared values of trust, education, and professionalism.”
