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

Woof The Yorkshire Dog Shop

Natalie Press is the founder of Woof The Yorkshire Dog Shop (Woof), which sells a wide range of organic, grain-free and sustainable pet products.

Start Up Loans

Project Harmless

Founder George Greer received a loan from the British Business Bank and Virgin StartUp in September 2022 to expand his line of sustainable dog waste bags, following a surge in demand from consumers in the USA.

Start Up Loans

JPC Specialist Motorsports

Paul Connaughton, founder of JPC Specialist Motorsports, a motorsports business set up to raise vital funds for JPC Community Farm.

Start Up Loans

Ikigai

Laura Suominen, the founder of Ikigai, an eco-conscious and Japanese-inspired homeware store, Ikigai The store is located in Leamington Spa, specialises in sourcing Japanese imported homeware items, yukata and otaku products such as official Studio Ghibli Merchandise.

Start Up Loans

H.E.R Bodywear

Alexandra Perry, founder of H.E.R Bodywear, who designs and sells bodywear for women who have undergone surgery for breast cancer or cosmetic breast surgery.

Start Up Loans

Ashlia

A family-run occasion wear rental service has moved into a new boutique in Muir of Ord on the Black Isle, offering luxury outfits at a fraction of their retail price to hire for special events.

Start Up Loans

Roundwood Gin

Leaving her role as a software engineer in bustling London and moving to rural Cambridgeshire to launch a gin distillery didn’t faze Emily Robertson, co-founder of Roundwood Gin.

Start Up Loans

The Cheese Collective

Sam Elsdon took out a Start Up Loan to open The Cheese Collective, selling artisinal small-batch cheeses that you won’t find in supermarkets.