For the first time ever in it’s history the Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) has funded businesses and students in Leicestershire with over £1m in grants and loans.
Established in 1542 by Sir Thomas White, who donated money to the people of the city and county despite never stepping foot in Leicester, the charity offers business and student loans and grants to residents in Leicestershire and Rutland.
In the past year it approved £949,032 in interest-free loans and a further £103,500 in grants to local businesses, totalling £1,052,532.
Lucy Womack, STWLC Chair, said:
“This is a hugely special milestone and a significant moment in the Charity’s history. To approve over £1M in a single year through interest-free loans and grants is something we’re so incredibly proud of.
“But more than that, behind every loan and grant is a person with ambition, determination and a vision for their future – the very people our Charity exists to support.
“Whether it’s helping a local business expand or enabling a postgraduate student to pursue a vital career path, these funds change lives and strengthen our communities.
“We can’t wait to see the positive impact this funding will have, and we look forward to supporting even more people across Leicestershire and Rutland in 2026.”
The next deadline for applications for a loan or grant is 3:30pm on Monday 5 January 2026.