Glamping, Green Gear and Growth: Newquay Business Secures £26k to Meet Soaring Demand

A Crantock-based outdoor activity provider has landed a £26,000 funding boost to help scale up operations and cater for increasing customer demand.

Big Green Adventures, which runs ocean-based experiences near Newquay, secured the investment through SWIG Finance via the South West Investment Fund, backed by the British Business Bank.

Ocean Activities with an Eco Edge

Founded in 2011 by Dale Unnuk, Big Green Adventures offers surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, bodyboarding and kayaking. Dale, who has worked around the world as a surf coach, employs five permanent staff and adds freelance contractors during the busy summer season.

The business has built a reputation not just for fun on the water, but also for its eco-conscious approach. The new funds will go towards increasing stocks of sustainable equipment – including kayaks made from recycled fishing nets and wetsuits created from natural materials.

Expansion Plans on Land and Sea

As well as meeting demand for water-based activities, Dale also plans to expand the company’s offering for corporate teambuilding days. He is working with local landowners to secure spots for pop-up glamping and camping, adding another string to the business’s bow.

The funding was delivered through the small loans part of the South West Investment Fund, managed in the region by SWIG Finance. Dale was referred to SWIG by Gregg Harding at Access to Finance, a support service for businesses in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly seeking investment.

Support That Understands the Season

Speaking about the process, Dale said:

“The process was really easy and the support from SWIG Finance and the South West Investment Fund means we can grow to meet demand.”

He also praised the personalised approach:

“You feel like you’re treated as a person, not just another bunch of numbers popped into a system. The personal support from my business manager, Nicki, was fantastic – she really cuts through the usual financial jargon, and it was great to talk to a lender who understands the nuances of seasonal businesses.”

Local Business with Deep Roots

SWIG business manager Nicki Kimberley said:

“It’s a pleasure to be able to support Big Green Adventures. From the outset, Dale’s passion for his business and knowledge of his sector was clear. While a mainly seasonal business, it is embedded within the local area, working closely with other organisations to encourage beach safety and proper care of the natural environment it operates in.”

David Tindall, Senior Investment Manager at British Business Bank, added:

“We’re pleased to see the South West Investment Fund supporting Big Green Adventures as it scales up to meet growing demand. This funding will help the business expand while staying true to its strong environmental values. By improving access to finance, we’re enabling more small businesses throughout the South West to grow, innovate, and create jobs.”

The South West Investment Fund aims to drive sustainable economic growth by backing new and growing businesses across the region. Loans range from £25,000 to £2 million, with equity investment available up to £5 million.