Impact and achievements

We've successfully supported thousands of individuals across the UK and distributed millions of pounds to help build British businesses.

The Start Up Loans scheme has had a transformative impact on the lives of thousands of individuals, our local communities and the nation as a whole. For every £1 invested in the scheme, £3.30 of value is delivered back into the UK economy.

Check out the infographic below for our latest lending statistics, including our work with individuals who might have struggled to start up without our support.
Briefcase icon

93,966

Businesses backed so far

Pound sterling icon

£862.5m

Money lent so far

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£9,178

Average loan size

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25

Businesses backed per day

          MEN60%
          WOMEN40%
MEN
60%
WOMEN
40%
  • 14%  18 > 24
  • 26%  25 > 30
  • 47%  31 > 49
  • 13%  50+
Male and Female avatar characters

34% Neets

as % of 18 > 24
 age group only

  • 80%
    white
  • 20%
    ethnic minorities
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5%

Unemployed before
applying

  • England 87% of lending volume
  • Scotland 6% of lending volume
  • Wales 5% of lending volume
  • Northern Ireland 2% of lending volume
  • England 87% of lending volume
  • Scotland 6% of lending volume
  • Wales 5% of lending volume
  • Northern Ireland 2% of lending volume
Map of the United Kingdom with coloured regions.

Will you be next? Find out more about how to apply for a Start Up Loan

How to apply

Our success stories

We’ve already backed thousands of businesses around the country with a Start Up Loan. Read on to find out about some of our success stories and how our support helped them turn their dreams into reality.