Virgin StartUp - Loans for UK Entrepreneurs
April 10, 2026
Virgin StartUp has announced a £20 million allocation to support founders across the United Kingdom during the 2026-27 financial year through the government-backed Start Up Loans programme. This marks the organisation’s largest annual allocation since becoming a national partner of the British Business Bank in 2013.
The programme offers loans ranging from £500 to £25,000, with the average loan expected to be around £7,200. The finance is intended to support early-stage entrepreneurs, including individuals starting a business, developing a side venture or growing an enterprise that has been trading for up to five years.
Eligible applicants must be aged 18 or over and based in the UK. New or expanding businesses that are less than one year old can also apply.
Funding can be used for a range of business purposes, including start-up costs, purchasing equipment, marketing activities and managing cashflow. In addition to financial support, successful applicants may receive mentoring and guidance and further resources provided by programme partners.
Virgin StartUp reported that it has now distributed more than £100 million, supporting over 6,500 founders across multiple sectors.
