The British Business Bank's total financial capacity will be increased to £25.6bn, enabling a two-thirds increase in investments to around £2.5bn each year.
Barrow-in-Furness has emerged as the North's small business hotspot with its microbusiness density score growing 78% over the past year, supported by £25m Town Deal.
"Despite challenging trading conditions for small businesses across the UK, the growth in the pet sector is pawsitively encouraging! As many pet owners adjust to new hybrid work schedules, these services have become essential."