Inclusive lender
with a rich heritage
We are a not-for-profit, FCA-accredited finance provider offering loans to both start-ups and established businesses across the UK.
Over the last 36 years, as a multi-award-winning organisation, we have a proven track record of helping businesses that struggle to secure funding from high street lenders, particularly those in underserved and underrepresented communities, including women-led businesses, ethnic minority-owned businesses, and those facing social or economic challenges.
£96 million +
invested in small businesses
5,257
small businesses supported
8,605
jobs created or safeguarded
Since 1989, I’ve seen how inclusive finance can change lives, especially for those overlooked by traditional lenders. Supporting ethnic minority entrepreneurs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities has been our mission from the start, and remains just as vital today.
Empowering businesses since 1989
We were established as First Enterprise Business Agency in 1989 in partnership with Nottingham City Council to encourage and support the local ethnic minority community into economic activity after the riots of the 80s.
By 1993, we broadened our support to the whole business community and became independent of the council. Since then, we’ve grown considerably and now work with a range of partners to support businesses across the East Midlands, South East Midlands and West Midlands.
Today, we promote inclusive business and work with our funding partners to ensure everyone can access the business advice and finance they need for their business to succeed.
Message from our Chairman
More than a lender,
we are your partner in growth!
Tailored financial
solutions
Our loan solutions are crafted to match the unique needs of each business, ensuring access to the right support at the right time.
Personalised support
at every step
You'll be assigned a dedicated advisor who provides one-on-one guidance, ensuring you have expert support whenever you need it.
Decisions made by people, not algorithms
We take a human approach - real people review each application, looking beyond numbers to see your business's true potential.
A relationship built
on trust
We do more than provide funding - we build lasting relationships. We believe in the people behind the business and stand by them as they grow.
Get to know our team
Our Board of Directors
Hassan Ahmed
Executive Chairman
Leslie Ayoola
Board Member
Shamsher Chohan
Board Member
Ernest Wright
Board Member
Azad Choudhry
Board Member
Nasim Chaudhry
Board Member
Mohammed Rashid
Board Member
Our Leaders
Investment Managers — Business Loan Team
Business Advisors — Start Up Loan Team
Operations Team
Our Network of Partners
We work with trusted partners to help small businesses secure the financing they need to grow and succeed.
Trusted - Certified - Awarded
We are proud to earn industry recognitions and join leading programmes, so we can keep delivering the best support and funding to our clients.
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