Funder hits £13m lending milestone
Lender First Enterprise has reported a major milestone.
The organisation says it provided £13m in loans during the financial year ending 31 March 2025.
Over the year, 712 businesses received funding, marking a 13% increase from the previous year.
The loans came through programmes like Start Up Loans, the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II by British Business Bank, and the Regional Growth Fund.
This support also helped create and protect 1,246 jobs and gave a boost to local communities.
First Enterprise also focused on promoting diversity in business. Of the total funding, 36% went to women-led businesses and 29% supported businesses led by people from minority backgrounds.
Hassan Ahmed, executive chairman of First Enterprise said: “Reaching this £13m milestone is a significant achievement, but what truly drives us at First Enterprise is the impact we have on underserved communities across the Midlands. By providing accessible finance to small businesses that might otherwise struggle to secure funding, we’re helping to create jobs, support local economies, and foster long-term, sustainable growth. We are committed to empowering entrepreneurs who are driving change and innovation in communities that need it most.”
Woodleigh Healthcare, a care provider in Leicester, received £150,000, which helped the company expand, manage cash flow, and open a third site in Nottinghamshire, all while keeping its skilled workforce.
Comfa, a family-run business in Derbyshire, makes sensory-friendly clothing. It secured £100,000 to increase production of its Fidget-Ts, develop more sizes and options, boost marketing, and support day-to-day operations.
Westwood Estate Planning in Lincolnshire received an £8,000 loan through the Start Up Loans programme. The funding helped raise awareness of the business through seminars, newsletters, and partnerships with financial advisors.
Daniel Carrico, executive director at First Enterprise said: “This £13m milestone reflects the growing recognition of the need for accessible finance in the small business sector. The funding landscape is evolving, and as a Community Development Finance Institution, First Enterprise is proud to play a key role in bridging the gap for businesses that may not have access to traditional lending sources.
By working closely with partners like the British Business Bank and regional initiatives, we’re helping to create a more inclusive, resilient economy that benefits everyone.”
