ART Business Loans reports over 20% increase in annual lending

Birmingham-based lender ART Business Loans reported a year-on-year lending increase of more than 20 per cent for the 2025/26 financial year. The results were presented during the organization’s annual general meeting on September 25.

As a Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI), ART provides loans ranging from £10,000 to £250,000, specifically targeting businesses that struggle to secure sufficient funding from traditional lenders. The report noted that more than 75 per cent of loans were directed toward underserved areas and communities. The lender also saw an increase in average deal sizes and a rise in larger deals facilitated through partnerships with other finance providers.

Chief Executive Dr Steve Walker expressed optimism regarding the organization’s future as it approaches its 30th anniversary in 2027. During the meeting, Nick Venning also stepped down from his position as chair of the ART board after ten years of service.