24/06/2026
Behind every business loan is a person with an idea, a goal, and a determination to build something of their own.
Over the last year, we've been proud to support hundreds of entrepreneurs across the UK through the Start Up Loans programme, but the impact we've seen in the West Midlands has been particularly significant.
Of the 289 Start Up Loans we provided to female-led businesses during 2025/26, 135 were awarded to women entrepreneurs in the West Midlands.
Even more encouragingly, 63 of those business owners were from minority communities.
These aren't just statistics. They represent people taking a chance on themselves, turning side projects into sustainable businesses, creating jobs, supporting their families, and contributing to the local economy.
The region also accounted for nearly half of our total Start Up Loans lending. Of the £10.5 million we delivered throughout 2025/26, £5.1 million was invested into businesses across the West Midlands.
Access to finance remains one of the biggest barriers facing many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
That's why these figures matter.
They show what can happen when finance is accessible, support is available, and people are given the opportunity to pursue their ambitions.
We're incredibly proud to play a small part in those journeys and to continue supporting the diverse and ambitious business community that makes the West Midlands such a vibrant place to start and grow a business.
Here's to the entrepreneurs building the future of the region, one business at a time.
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