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<p>The network of 38 Growth Hubs across England provides free and impartial advice
to anyone wishing to start and a grow a business. At March 2018, Local Enterprise
Partnerships in the East Midlands reported that since launch their Growth Hubs have
supported over 36,500 businesses; of which 3,835 received intensive support. Furthermore,
East Midlands Growth Hubs have helped over 2,000 entrepreneurs start their own business
since launch.</p><p> </p><p>Across the UK, there are now 1.1 million women-led small
and medium-sized businesses and I want to see that number grow. Access to finance
is key area that can support that aim and I am pleased to report that the government-supported
Start-Up Loans Company has provided loans worth nearly £436 million to those wishing
to start a business, of which nearly 40% have been given to female entrepreneurs at
March 2018.</p>
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