First Enterprise Unveils New Look Rebrand and Celebrates £5 Million Lending Milestone Just Two Months Into Financial Year

Helping Midlands Businesses Grow With Compassionate, Human-Led Lending 

First Enterprise, a not-for-profit Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI), has launched a striking new brand identity, reflecting a modern, friendly, and inclusive approach to finance that’s already making a significant impact across the Midlands and beyond.

The rebrand is reinforcing its mission to deliver fair and inclusive lending with a distinctly human approach. This transformation marks a new chapter for an organisation that has been supporting businesses across the Midlands for over 36 years. 

Founded in 1989, First Enterprise was established to tackle inequality in business finance and help people who are often excluded from traditional lending. Since then, it has grown into a leading CDFI, supporting over 7,500 businesses with more than £82 million in loans. 

With a fresh new look featuring a bold navy-and-yellow colour palette that symbolises trust and warmth, and a logo designed to evoke growth and support – like a plant nurtured to thrive – the rebrand signals a renewed commitment to putting people first in business finance. 

This visual shift is more than cosmetic. It reflects First Enterprise’s long-standing human approach to lending, where real people – not algorithms – make compassionate, relationship-driven funding decisions. In communities where traditional banks often say no, First Enterprise says yes by listening to the full story behind each application. 

A Flying Start with over £5 Million Lent, Largely Locally, Just Two Months Into Financial Year 

The rebrand coincides with the launch of a major new £13m lending initiative through the British Business Bank’s Community ENABLE Fund (CEF). In just its first month, First Enterprise has already lent over £2m through the CEF to underserved but viable businesses across the Midlands and beyond.

Across all funding streams, including the Start Up Loans programme, Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II), and CEF, the organisation has lent £5m in the first two months of the financial year. This funding is providing vital support to entrepreneurs unable to secure finance from traditional banks, helping them grow their businesses, create jobs, and boost the Midlands economy. 

“This rebrand is a reflection of who we are and always have been – approachable, supportive and committed to our communities,” said Hassan Ahmed, Executive Chairman of First Enterprise. “We are proud to already be making a major impact with the new fund, helping viable businesses access the capital they need to grow.” 

Committed to Inclusive Lending Backed by Impact 

First Enterprise is a champion of inclusive lending, with a strong focus on supporting women and ethnic minority-led businesses. In the last financial year alone, 36% of lending went to women-led businesses, and 29% to ethnic minority-led enterprises. Over a third of funding was also directed to some of the UK’s most economically deprived areas, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to place-based support and long-term community impact, directly boosting local economies. 

First Enterprise offers Start Up Loans from £500 to £25,000 at just 6% interest rate, and Business Loans from £25,001 to £250,000 at competitive interest rates. Both unsecured and built around personal relationships and realistic growth forecasts.  

Whether it is a new café in Nottingham, a growing tech firm in Leicester or a local service business in Derby, First Enterprise is helping people across the region unlock potential and create lasting impact. 

“We don’t use algorithms. We use conversations,” said Daniel Carrico, Executive Director at First Enterprise. “Our team lives in or near the communities we serve. That connection allows us to truly understand the people behind the businesses – and to say yes where others might say no.” 

“We’re here to unlock the potential of those who are too often overlooked,” added Danielle Davis, Deputy Director at First Enterprise. “Our new look reflects our belief that finance should be inclusive, personal, and empowering.” 

Now is the Time to Grow Your Business. Get the Support You Deserve. 

If you're a local business owner in need of funding, but struggling to access support from mainstream banks, First Enterprise is here to help. 

With funding available and a team that truly listens, now is the time to grow your business with people who care.

First Enterprise invites Midlands entrepreneurs to explore how ethical, inclusive finance can help them thrive. Whether you are starting out or scaling up, First Enterprise is here to help turn ambition into action. 

Visit www.first-enterprise.co.uk to find out more and apply today.