Business finance provider ART Business Loans is preparing to help more businesses to grow and increase employment after reporting annual lending growth of more than 20 per cent.
Now in its 30th anniversary year, Birmingham-based lender ART Business Loans shared its results for the 2025/26 financial year in its latest annual report, presented at its AGM on Friday (September 25).
The report showed ART increased lending by more than 20 per cent year on year, helping viable businesses across the West Midlands and adjoining counties to grow, protect and create jobs, invest in their teams and contribute to their local economies.
The annual report highlighted ART’s commitment to supporting underserved areas and communities, with more than 75 per cent of loans made in these areas. ART also saw an increase in the average deal size plus a rise in the number of larger deals delivered in partnership with finance providers.
ART provides loans of between £10,000 and £250,000, specialising in supporting companies which have been unable to secure all the finance they need from traditional lenders.
As a Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI), the team at ART take a personal approach to lending, looking at each business individually and taking the time to understand its circumstances, ambitions and plans.
Dr Steve Walker, Chief Executive of ART Business Loans, said the results provided a strong platform as the organisation approaches a significant milestone.
He 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 Nicholl, who was formally appointed at the AGM, said: “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.”
ART has continued to strengthen its funding capacity during the year, including an allocation of £7 million through the British Business Bank’s Community ENABLE Funding Programme, supporting lending above £25,000 to businesses across the West Midlands.
Operating since 1997 ART remains focused on the purpose that has been at the heart of the organisation since it was established, helping viable businesses access responsible finance when traditional lenders are unable to meet their needs.