Business Bank support reaches 2,800 smaller enterprises in the South West
Recent figures show that the British Business Bank provided new support to 2,800 smaller businesses across the South West in 2025/26, with this activity expected to create 2,900 new jobs and safeguard a further 31,000.
In its third annual Impact Report published on 21st July, the Bank estimates the supported firms will generate £1.3bn in additional turnover, delivering a forecast uplift in economic output of £500m to the region’s economy over the lifetime of the finance they have received.
The figures demonstrate how the British Business Bank continues to power growth across the South West. Its £200 million South West Investment Fund has already supported hundreds of businesses across the region.
The Bank is also expanding support in the West of England through a new £8.5m innovation cluster, helping drive more equity investment into businesses operating in the eight priority Industrial Strategy sectors.
Meanwhile, the Start Up Loans programme is backing the next generation of entrepreneurs, delivering nearly £14 million in lending across the South West during 2025.
Ed Tellwright, Director, South West, British Business Bank Local Growth Team, said, “These figures show the important role access to finance plays in helping smaller businesses to start and grow, and the significant contribution they make to the South West. By newly supporting 2,800 businesses during 2025/26, we’ve helped ambitious companies invest, create jobs and strengthen the region’s economy.
“Through the South West Investment Fund and new innovation cluster funding, we’re backing businesses with the capital they need to start, scale and succeed.”
The national picture
The report underlines the Bank’s ongoing commitment to the South West as well as other UK Nations and regions. 87% of the businesses newly supported by the Bank in 2025/26 were based outside of London, helping to deliver more than a £100m boost to economic output in each and every UK Nation and region.
Pictured: Ed Tellwright, Director, South West, British Business Bank Local Growth Team
