Barclays has pledged to support 1.5 million businesses and entrepreneurs across the UK by 2030, in a long-term plan designed to help companies start, grow and create jobs.
The new Backing Britain’s Future commitment will offer support at every stage, from turning an early idea into a viable business through to scaling up, investing and expanding into international markets. The bank says that support will include access to finance, skills, networks and expertise.
That matters because small and medium-sized businesses make up 99% of UK companies and account for around 60% of employment. Barclays says its analysis suggests a further £60bn in annual investment could be unlocked if SMEs invested at the same rate as larger firms.
Support from idea to IPO
Barclays is presenting the programme as a continuous pathway for entrepreneurs and businesses, helping them move from an initial idea through to potential stock market flotation.
For new businesses, the focus will include turning ideas into viable companies and helping firms make use of new technologies and innovation. As companies expand, Barclays will offer access to capital, financing and business connections to support investment and growth.
The bank also says the programme will help British companies compete in markets overseas, backed by Barclays’ international reach.
A focus beyond London
The commitment is intended to reach businesses across every nation and region of the UK. In the first half of 2026, more than 80% of the finance provided to SMEs by Barclays Business Bank went to businesses outside London.
Barclays is also creating a network of nine Regional Chairs and Leadership Boards. These groups will bring together local expertise, relationships and insight to support businesses, strengthen communities and identify growth opportunities around the country.
Group chief executive C.S. Venkatakrishnan said businesses need more than finance alone, pointing to the importance of skills, networks, expertise and capital at different stages of growth.
Lord Leong, Minister for Small Business and Enterprise, said the commitment would give entrepreneurs and small businesses access to tools and support to help turn their ambitions into reality, alongside the government’s Plan for Small Businesses.
Why this is good news for Britain
If the plan helps more SMEs invest and expand, it could support job creation, innovation and stronger local business communities across the UK. Its focus on businesses outside London also reflects the importance of regional economies to wider growth.
