Giants general manager John Elliott described Canadian software businessman Jim Yaworski's backing as a huge boost.

"This is a fantastic piece of news for our club, and indeed for sport in Northern Ireland," said Elliott.

"We are in the final stages of a complex investment deal which, when completed, will see Jim Yaworski as a new shareholder in the Giants."

Meanwhile, Elliott said he hoped to announce a successor to last season's coach Tony Hand soon.

The 2005-06 fixtures is also due to be announced with the Giants having to play most of the home fixtures in the early part of the season.

This is because the Odyssey is not available in late February and most of March 2006 as the Mama Mia musical is on.

Elliott said Giants would not be taking part in the Challenge Cup next season, as the problem with the home venue would have meant too demanding a schedule on the players.