ART Business Loans reports 20% lending growth

ART Business Loans has reported annual lending growth of more than 20% as the Birmingham-based finance provider prepares to increase its support for businesses across the Midlands.

The Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) revealed the increase in its annual report for the 2025/26 financial year, presented at its AGM on September 25.

ART said the growth in lending had helped businesses across the West Midlands and neighbouring counties to invest, expand and protect or create jobs.

More than 75% of loans during the year were made to businesses in underserved areas and communities. The lender also recorded an increase in its average deal size and a rise in the number of larger transactions completed in partnership with other finance providers.

ART provides loans ranging from £10,000 to £250,000, focusing on viable businesses that have been unable to secure all the funding they require from traditional lenders.

The organisation has also expanded its funding capacity, including securing a £7 million allocation through the British Business Bank’s Community ENABLE Funding Programme. The funding supports loans above £25,000 to businesses across the West Midlands.

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 also marked a change in leadership at ART, with Nick Venning stepping down as Chair after 10 years in the role and Graham Nicholl formally appointed as his successor.

Venning 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 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.”

ART has operated since 1997, providing finance to businesses that are unable to obtain all the funding they require through traditional lending channels.