Success stories

We've already helped tens of thousands of individuals to start and grow their business. Learn how with our library of success stories.

We've already helped tens of thousands of individuals to start and grow their business. Read on for the full story on some of our most inspiring loan recipients: why they became their own boss, the challenges they faced and overcame along the way and how a Start Up Loan helped them to achieve their dreams.

 
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Start Up Loans

Krapow Thai Restaurant

Phil enjoyed a 17-year career in the British Army. He met his Thai partner Chanisara seven years ago and that sparked their dream to open a restaurant together. Chanisara started serving her cuisine with a Thai food stall in the town’s central market and discovered that demand was high for her freshly made products.

Start Up Loans

Vicky’s Brasserie

The Start-Up Loan allowed Ferris to completely refurbish the Grade II building and the restaurant opened for business in December 2023.

Start Up Loans

Melin Llynon

Restoration of Wales’ last working windmill sees sails turn again on Ynys Môn. Melin Llynon is restored to former glory following funding from Isle of Anglesey County Council and British Business Bank

Start Up Loans

Mama Bobo Africa

A Nigerian restaurant owner has been amazed at just how popular traditional African cuisine has become with Northern Ireland diners. Mama Bobo Africa thriving after receiving support from Start Up Loans.



Start Up Loans

Lyme bay Seafood Company

Learn how Simon Baker started their business Lyme bay Seafood Company with help from a loan from Start Up Loans.

Start Up Loans

Hello Good Pie

Learn how Clare Lewis started her business Hello Good Pie with help from a loan from Start Up Loans.

Start Up Loans

The Wine Hall

Learn how Vanessa Tortella started their business The Wine Hall with help from a loan from Start Up Loans.

Start Up Loans

Bliss Retreats

Learn how Joanne Jepson started their business Bliss Retreats with help from a loan from Start Up Loans.

Start Up Loans

EZ Hampers

Lisa Storey, founder of EZ Hampers, a sustainable gift company which sources sustainable products solely from positive impact businesses.

Start Up Loans

Ardmore Shepherd’s Hut

A Gen Z 23-year-old hotel worker is embarking on her own hospitality venture, after securing funding to purchase and restore a rustic shepherd’s hut on the North Coast 500.

Start Up Loans

Layer’s Treats

Tom Newey, aged 22 helped start his business with a Start Up Loan. Established in 2020, his award-winning dessert business, Layers Treats offers handmade Belgian chocolate treats for all occasions

Start Up Loans

The Mixer

Joel Jones, 24, from Cornwall applied for a £20,000 Start Up Loan, provided through SWIG Finance, to convert a classic VW campervan into a mobile cocktail bar and launch his business, The Mixer, aimed at weddings and parties.

Start Up Loans

The Scran Man

Blake Bentley, aged 22, took out a £5,000 loan for his business, The Scran Man, in March 2021.The business, based in Great Barr in Birmingham, is dedicated to bringing customers authentic, fresh and tasty American street food such as Philly cheesesteaks, fried chicken and signature burgers.

Start Up Loans

Dandelion Coffee House

Former RAF Senior Aircraftman Emma Swiggs opened the Dandelion Coffee House thanks to a £6000 Start Up Loan from X-Forces Enterprise.

Start Up Loans

Quarter

Best friends of 22 years Fabian Clark and Rohan Radhakrishnan co-founded the business in 2021 after seeing a gap in the existing all-or-nothing booze market. The low-alcohol, low-calorie gin product gives customers a great tasting alternative, without the possible side effects of the higher-alcohol options.

Start Up Loans

Coffeesmiths

Learn more about Coffeesmiths, a locally sourced coffee shop in Norfolk, Norwich.

Start Up Loans

Bar Buoy

Learn more about Bar Buoy a cocktail manufacturer in Exmouth that received £50k from Start Up Loan funding to scale up their business.

Start Up Loans

Ramen Electra

Learn more about how James Fraser, owner and chef of Ramen Electra turn his newfound skill into a business opportunity.