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<p>Our Industrial Strategy is about providing help and support for all individuals
wishing to start and grow their own business, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.
The Government-backed British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme provides loans
for people starting their own business. The Scheme started in 2012 and as at the end
of September 2018, the Start Up Loans programme had lent £450m to more than 59,000
entrepreneurs.</p><p> </p><p>Whilst our approach to business support is focused on
advice and support for all, I am pleased to report that women account for 39% of the
recipients of these loans, while 19% of existing SMEs are female-led. The Start-Up
Loans scheme also provides comprehensive advice and support for those in receipt of
loans, with teams of business advisors and mentoring support to guide people through
the start-up process.</p>
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