STAR Asset Finance passes £3bn funding milestone

STAR Asset Finance has surpassed £3 billion in cumulative funding provided to UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), marking a significant milestone for the independent asset finance group.

The milestone, reached in September 2026, reflects the group’s growth since its formation in 2014, bringing together four established regional finance businesses to provide asset finance and other funding solutions to SMEs across the UK.

STAR comprises Kennet Equipment Leasing in Birmingham, Ignition Credit in Cornwall, First Capital Finance in Bournemouth and Credo Capital Finance in Norwich. Each business has an established presence in its regional market, combining local sector knowledge with the resources and funding capabilities of the wider group.

Today, STAR provides asset finance, business loans, vehicle finance and other business funding products, using both its own balance sheet and a panel of specialist funders.

The group supports businesses across sectors including construction, agriculture, marine, hospitality, education, transport, renewable energy and business equipment. It also works with manufacturers and suppliers through vendor finance partnerships, some of which have been established for decades.

STAR has continued to invest in cloud-based origination technology and artificial intelligence to streamline applications and improve the customer experience, while retaining a focus on specialist advice and relationship-led lending.

The funding milestone follows a series of senior leadership changes, including the appointment of Jason Hurwitz as Group Chief Executive Officer in July 2026. Tim Tainty and Sean Devoy have also been promoted internally to Group Chief Operating Officer and Group Chief Financial Officer respectively.

Jason Hurwitz, Group Chief Executive Officer at STAR Asset Finance, said: “Passing the £3 billion mark is a proud moment for everyone at STAR.

“Above all, it’s a testament to the people and teams across our businesses who have built this, deal by deal, over many years. Behind that number are thousands of UK businesses, from builders and farmers to manufacturers, hauliers, schools, and hospitality operators, that have put their trust in STAR to support their investment and growth plans.”

Hurwitz highlighted the importance of combining digital investment with regional expertise as the group looks towards its next phase of growth.

“What sets STAR apart is the combination of national strength and genuine local industry knowledge across both direct and dealer channels. Our teams have been doing this for decades. They know their regions and their sectors inside out, and they build relationships that last.

“I am a strong advocate for using technology to create scalable, efficient, and profitable SME-finance businesses. But technology alone does not create enduring customer relationships. SMEs need speed and simplicity, but they also want authentic expertise, sound judgement, and confidence that someone understands what is at stake. That blend of smart technology and real human expertise is how we’ll deliver the next £3 billion.”