New data reveals that the Start Up Loans programme has helped to create or support 250,000 across the UK, as businesses funded by the programme have gone on to hire, grow and contribute to their local communities.
The data shows that Start Up Loans is helping founders of all ages start and scale their businesses. Among the under 30s, loans were mostly used to launch customer-facing businesses such as hospitality, retail ventures and fitness. Older entrepreneurs, meanwhile, were more likely to use the programme to draw on their professional expertise, establishing businesses in software development, education support and management consultancy.
As well as releasing new data the programme, backed by the British Business Bank, announced its 2026 Start Up Loans Ambassadors, naming 14 entrepreneurs from across the UK, representing industries from canned fish to aerospace technologies.
This year’s cohort represent a diverse range of entrepreneurs, with founders building businesses that respond to changing consumer needs, local community challenges, sustainability problems and emerging technical opportunities.
Twelve ambassadors represent each of the UK’s nations and regions. These include:
- Flyber, an East Midlands advanced manufacturing aerospace technology business developing composite blades for drones and next-generation electric aircraft
- Period Harmony, a London-based female-health business that creates doctor-formulated, drug-free period relief products and educational content about periods
- Ashlia, an award-winning fashion rental boutique in the Scottish Highlands
- Eden in the Wilde, a luxury reusable floral business in the North West
- RKB Boxing, a women-only boxing gym in Wales.
Additionally, two Ambassadors have been selected from specialist groups. Gen Z Ambassador Mariam Sesay, 26, founded My Hapii, a plant-powered, haircare brand which draws inspiration from Sierra Leone and is designed for afro-textured and curly hair. Former Army Surveyor Tim Jervis, founder of Salt Pig Sandwiches in York, represents the Armed Forces community with a business that revitalises the humble sandwich.
So far, young entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 24 have received more than £135m in Start UP Loans funding, while members of the Armed Forces have been granted nearly £70m in support from nearly 6000 loans,
Louise McCoy, Managing Director, Start Up Loans, British Business Bank said: “Every year, our Ambassadors demonstrate what can be achieved when entrepreneurs with ambition and determination can access the right support, finance, and guidance at the right time. The Start Up Loan Ambassadors show how great business ideas can be transformed into thriving enterprises that create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to the economic growth in communities across the UK.
“This year’s Ambassadors represent the very best of UK entrepreneurship and Start Up Loans is proud to support founders from every devolved nation and region, helping them to take their first steps into business. Over the coming year, they will share their experiences, insight, and advice to inspire the next generation of founders, helping more people turn their ambitions into successful businesses.”
Minister for Small Business and Enterprise Lord Leong added: “Start Up Loans have helped more than 100,000 entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into real businesses. Behind every business is a founder who took a chance – and the jobs created show how far that ambition can go with the right support.
“This success is a tribute to our determined founders, inspiring ambassadors, and the British Business Bank. I congratulate everyone involved. Giving entrepreneurs the chance to succeed creates opportunities that reach far beyond any one business, benefiting families, communities, and the wider economy.”
