Case Studies
We've already helped tens of thousands of individuals to start and grow their business. Learn how with our library of case studies.
The interest rate on Start Up Loans is changing
From the 1st April 2026 the interest rate on Start Up Loans is changing to a fixed rate of 7.5% for new applications. Eligibility criteria for a first Start Up Loan is being extended to businesses that have been trading for up to 60 months.
We've already helped tens of thousands of individuals to start and grow their business. Read on for the full story on some of our most inspiring loan recipients: why they became their own boss, the challenges they faced and overcame along the way and how a Start Up Loan helped them to achieve their dreams.
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Case study requestDisplaying 1 - 12 of 12 results
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Beer Hatch
Saul Press, founder of Beer Hatch has gone from delivering beers on his bike to setting up the UK’s “smallest off-licence ” to now owning his own craft ale shop in Norwich
Hippy Hut Pottery
Cally James, founder of Hippy Hut Pottery, a ceramics business that offers classes and commissions. Hippy Hut Pottery hosts intimate workshops and hands-on classes for up to eight people, at bespoke studio in Bury St Edmonds.
Cambridge Hydrotherapy Centre
Aimee Plumb, founder of Cambridge Hydrotherapy Centre, is a Start Up Loans recipient. In October 2021, Aimee took out a loan of £2,500 via Norfolk & Waveney Enterprise Services when she was 19 years old. The company, based in Great Abington in Cambridge, offers hydrotherapy for dogs, to help them through the rehabilitation process by building muscle and easing pain.
Finnegan's Whiskers
Shelley Smith, founder of Finnegan’s Whiskers, has opened Suffolk’s only cat café and feline foster home based in Sudbury. Shelley has partnered with local cat rescue centre, Mel’s Rescue, to home cats at the café and alleviate pressure on animal rescue centres. Visitors to the café will also have the option to adopt cats they interact with and participate in animal therapy sessions. These will be arranged at the café on an ongoing basis, along with events such as crafting and a book club.
Coffeesmiths
Learn more about Coffeesmiths, a locally sourced coffee shop in Norfolk, Norwich.
Ramen Electra
Learn more about how James Fraser, owner and chef of Ramen Electra turn his newfound skill into a business opportunity.
Peace and Pure
Alice Wu, founder of Peace and Pure, took out her loan of £19,000 in 2020 to start the business.
Valiant Lingerie
Eleanor Howie took secured finance of £6,500 through Start Up Loans delivery partner Virgin Start Ups in Spring 2020. Her business Valiant Lingerie provides empowering lingerie for women who have been impacted by breast cancer or risk-reducing mastectomies.
Trapped Animal Records
Joel Clayton from Cambridge received a loan through delivery partner Transmit Start-Ups in 2019, which he used to establish a record label, Trapped Animal Records, with two other musicians.
Silverbirch Woodcraft
Peter Rogers took out a loan of £10,000 in 2021 to launch Silverbirch Woodcraft, an online store selling bespoke and restored handmade furniture.
Industry Education in Music
Sam Robson, an entrepreneur from Ipswich, is passionate about music and education.
Shortcuts Children’s Salon
Father of two David O’Neal opened his children’s hair salon Shortcuts with the help of a Start Up Loan.
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