Case study
Tuscany and Taste, a brand dedicated to bringing authentic Tuscan truffle excellence to London, was funded with £84,000 in growth finance by Let’s Do Business Finance through Community ENABLE Funding, supported by the Growth Guarantee Scheme. This funding enabled the founders, Marco Ponsicchi and Egizia Gargini, to realise their long-held dream of opening their first truffle boutique and wine bar, Tartufo e Vino Toscana, in Hammersmith, West London.
| Region/Nation | London |
|---|---|
| Sector | Consumer Goods & Services |
| Programme | Community Enable Funding Programme |
| Partner |
Founded in 2020 during a time of global uncertainty, Tuscany and Taste was born from a desire to create something meaningful and authentic. The brand introduced London to premium truffle-based products, rooted in Tuscan gastronomic tradition, and built a loyal following through food markets, events, and collaborations with chefs and private clubs. Their mission has always been clear: to promote the excellence of Tuscany and preserve authentic flavours.
After five years of building their reputation through markets and events, Marco and Egizia were ready to take the next step to open a physical store that would serve as both a luxury truffle boutique and a wine bar. However, securing the right location, paying deposits, and stocking premium products required significant investment. Traditional finance options were limited, making access to flexible funding essential for growth.
Working with BizBritain and Let’s Do Business Finance, the founders secured £84,000 in growth finance, including an extension of their previous Start Up Loans they had accessed. Delivered through the British Business Bank’s Community ENABLE Funding programme, supported by the Growth Guarantee Scheme, this support allowed Tuscany and Taste to overcome financial barriers and bring their vision to life.
When first being introduced to Marco and Egizia, it was very clear that their passion, vision and product were going to make the next step of their growth a success. On visiting the store on their opening night, it was amazing to see their dreams come to reality. - Gary Belton Business Development Manager, Let’s Do Business Finance
The funding enabled Tuscany and Taste to open Tartufo e Vino Toscana, a refined space where customers can purchase truffles and fine Tuscan wines or enjoy them in an authentic setting. The boutique reflects the simplicity and elegance of Tuscan cuisine, a place where quality ingredients and conviviality take centre stage.
The loan gave us the confidence and resources to take this big step. It allowed us to create something authentic and beautiful, and to share the taste of Tuscany with London. - Egizia Gargini Co-Owner, Tartufo e Vino Toscana
With their first boutique now open, Tuscany and Taste is looking ahead to further growth. Their vision is to replicate this model across London, other UK cities, and eventually, internationally. By supporting this venture, the Community ENABLE Funding programme has helped create jobs, strengthen cultural connections, and bring a unique gastronomic experience to new audiences.
The story of Tuscany and Taste is a great example of how the Community ENABLE Funding programme can help ambitious businesses overcome barriers and achieve their goals. By providing access to finance, we’re enabling growth that benefits communities and celebrates cultural heritage. - Oliver Pollard Associate Director, British Business Bank
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