"Virgin StartUp has now distributed more than £100 million in Start Up Loans funding since the partnership began more than a decade ago. Over that period the not-for-profit organisation has supported more than 6,500 entrepreneurs to launch and grow businesses across a wide range of sectors."
"According to Virgin StartUp, the loans delivered through its programme have generated an estimated £550 million in economic value for the UK, equating to a return of £5.50 for every £1 invested."
"69 per cent of businesses supported through its Start Up Loans funding remain trading after five years, significantly higher than the national average of 43 per cent, suggesting founders who access the programme are around 60 per cent more likely to survive their early years in business."
Virgin StartUp has allocated £20 million in funding for the 2026-2027 financial year through the government-backed Start Up Loans programme, representing the organisation's largest annual investment since partnering with the British Business Bank in 2013. This milestone follows the distribution of over £100 million since the partnership began, supporting more than 6,500 entrepreneurs across various sectors. Notable businesses backed include Castore, Upcircle, DASH Water, Magic AI, and Oddbox. The programme demonstrates strong economic impact, generating an estimated £550 million in UK economic value with a £5.50 return per £1 invested. Significantly, 69 per cent of supported businesses remain trading after five years, compared to the national average of 43 per cent, indicating founders are approximately 60 per cent more likely to survive their early business years.
Read at Business Matters
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