ART Business Loans increases annual lending by more than 20%
Now in its 30th anniversary year, the Birmingham-based lender shared the results in its latest annual report, presented at its AGM on Friday, September 25th.
ART Business Loans increased lending by more than 20% year-on-year during the 2025/26 financial year.
Now in its 30th anniversary year, the Birmingham-based lender shared the results in its latest annual report, presented at its AGM on Friday, September 25th.
The report showed ART increased lending by more than 20% year-on-year, helping businesses across the West Midlands and adjoining counties to grow, protect and create jobs, invest in their teams and contribute to their local economies.
More than 75% of loans were made to businesses in underserved areas and communities.
ART also recorded an increase in its average deal size and in the number of larger deals delivered alongside other finance providers.
The Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) provides loans of between £10,000 and £250,000, focusing on businesses unable to secure all the funding they require from traditional lenders.
Dr Steve Walker, chief executive of ART Business Loans, said: “As we prepare to celebrate our 30th anniversary in 2027, there is a real sense of optimism about what comes next for ART.
“We have a strong team, growing demand and the funding in place to help more viable businesses access the finance they need.
“We are incredibly proud of what ART has achieved over almost three decades but our focus is very much on the future.
“There are still too many good businesses struggling to find appropriate and affordable finance, and we want to make sure they know there are other options available.
“The future for ART looks bright and I am excited about what we can achieve together.”
The AGM saw Nick Venning step down as chair of the ART board after 10 years in the role.
He said: “It has been a real privilege to be part of ART over the past 10 years.
“We have faced some significant economic challenges during that time, but ART has continued to adapt, grow and, most importantly, support businesses that might otherwise struggle to access the finance they need.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as chair and I leave knowing ART is in a strong position for the future.”
New chair Graham Nicoll, who was formally appointed at the AGM, added: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of chair at such an exciting time for ART.
“There is a strong foundation to build on and a clear opportunity to reach and support even more businesses across the Midlands and beyond.
“I am looking forward to working with Steve, the Board and the wider ART team as we move into this next chapter.”
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