Specialist lender Roma Finance has announced a new partnership with Rise Up Development, becoming the official lending partner for its property development education programme, which helps UK contractors transition safely and successfully into development.
Rise Up Development was founded by Robin Hayhurst and Dave Symondson, both members of the Chartered Institute of Building and with 50 years combined experience of working in the residential property development industry. The organisation runs practical workshops designed to help ambitious contractors build the knowledge, structure, and partnerships they need to move from delivering projects to leading their own developments.
As Rise Up’s lending partner, Roma Finance will provide insight and guidance on development funding, helping course participants understand how to structure deals, access finance, and prepare for lender engagement. The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between skilled contractors and the funding support required to grow into trusted, profitable property developers.
Michael Allison, Commercial Director at Roma Finance, said: “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.”
Dave Symondson, Co-Founder of Rise Up Development, added: “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.”
The Rise Up programme combines one-day foundation workshops with advanced development assessments, giving contractors a structured pathway from site sourcing, delivery to development leadership. With Roma Finance now integrated as a lending partner, participants will gain direct access to funding insights from an experienced specialist lender that understands the realities of SME development.
