Leicester Startups is delighted to announce a new sponsor, one of the most well-established business charities in the UK, The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC).

Local entrepreneur Ben Ravilious founded Leicester Startups in 2013. Whilst STWLC was born in 1542.

Ben said:

“We are so proud of this partnership between one of the oldest and one of the newest local startup support organisations for 2023. 

“It will enable us to hold more events, talks and workshops designed to boost the growing entrepreneurial spirit in the area.”

STWLC provides loans for news startup founders and existing businesses needing investment. It hosts quarterly application windows each year in which people aged over 18 and under 45 can apply for unique interest-free loans of up to £20,000 to aid local businesses, or £10,000 to support students wishing to return to post-graduate education.

Although he never actually set foot in Leicester, Sir Thomas is honoured by being included as one of the four statues around the Clock Tower in Leicester city centre.

Lucy Womack, Chair of Trustees at STWLC, said:

“We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with Leicester Startups, which we hope will bring the Charity closer to a local community of entrepreneurs who can benefit from our interest-free business loans.

“Working together, we’re excited to connect with more entrepreneurs and learn about their business aspirations, while opening doors for businesses who require financial support to get off the ground or reach the next stage of their development.

 “We’ve supported many people with our interest-free loans, and approved a total of £330,500 last year alone, so we’re looking forward to increasing that positive influence throughout 2023.”  

Last year it also gave away a £500 prize to a Leicester entrepreneur as part of a Leicester Giving Day.

If you’re interested in applying for a business loan, find out more here.