East Anglian Financial Planning (EAFP) has been named winner of the Start Up of the Year award at the EADT Business Awards 2024. 

Based in Langham, near Colchester, EAFP provides bespoke independent financial planning to individuals, trusts and businesses across the region.

It prides itself on its ability to work with fellow professionals, solicitors, accountants and tax advisers to help deliver the best holistic outcomes for clients.

The company’s team of experienced chartered independent financial advisers (IFAs) provide advice in a wide range of areas including pensions, investments, retirement planning and financial planning in divorce.

Its aim is to help clients preserve and build their wealth through innovative investment solutions and bespoke financial planning.

The firm’s approach is based on a deep understanding of its clients’ needs and goals, and it is committed to delivering high-quality client service.  

Established in 2022, EAFP secured corporate chartered status within its first year and was named one of New Model Adviser’s top 100 IFA firms in the country.

It was also awarded Best Emerging Bespoke Financial Firm and East Anglia Client Service Award at the SME News Finance Awards.

The judges said EAFP is already making a “significant impact” on Suffolk’s business community, having “grown exponentially and profitably in a short space of time”.

They added: “From the get-go, the company has sought to minimise its environmental impact and has mapped a very exciting growth trajectory in the years to come.”

The judging panel also commended EAFP’s “loyal customer base” and “impressive set of accreditations for customer reassurance”, noting that the business puts “exacting service” at the core of everything it does.

Neil Hewitt, director at EAFP, said: “It’s been a real year, a rollercoaster of emotions – fear, excitement, worry – and to get to this point and to be recognised for what we’ve done is just fantastic for us and the whole team.”

Grant Buchanan, director, added: “One of the big things for us is making sure we can look after clients and give good customer service.

“We’ve been really lucky to grow substantially, so the next stage is to continue growing, but now we need to grow the team to make sure we look after clients and give them the service that they demand and that they should have.”

The finalists

Curious Retreats
Launched in 2023, Woodbridge-based Curious Retreats aims to curate premium, tailored holiday experiences that capture the true spirit of Suffolk. 

The business works to put property owners and guests first, emphasising quality over quantity. 

The judges described Curious Retreats as “a company being truly innovative in the holiday let sector” and praised its focus on “outstanding service”.

Lanman Solar
Lanman Solar is a fully accredited solar energy installation specialist located near Ipswich. 

Its services range from solar panel installation and battery storage systems to solar servicing, repair and maintenance – as well as EV charging points. 

The judges said the business “puts customer service at the core” and has achieved “impressive financial turnover in a short period of time”. 

Satsuma Group
With headquarters in Wherstead, near Ipswich, Satsuma Group is a full-service creative agency with staff working remotely and flexibly across the UK. 

Single parent Ellen Widdup founded Satsuma to utilise the talented workforce that do not fit the typical nine to five. 

The judges said Satsuma is “a thriving business” that has empowered other women in similar positions to get back into work.

Find out more about all of the winners here.

For more information on next year's EADT Business Awards, please keep your eyes peeled for updates at eadtbusinessawards.co.uk