We are an inclusive lender with a rich heritage.

First Enterprise is a not-for-profit, FCA-accredited finance provider offering loans to both startups and established businesses across the UK.

Over more than 40 years our multi-award-winning organisation has established 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.

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£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.

Enabling businesses growth 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.

A message from our Chairman

We are much 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.

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Our Impact Report

Recent years have thrown many challenges to businesses across the nation, and at times like these it's critical that we at First Enterprise remain transparent and realistic with partners and clients alike.

Our latest impact report provides a comprehensive overview of our year in review, and we'd love you to read what we've achieved.