Empowering the Next Generation: Business Advance One Year On

Last year, The King’s Trust and LDC announced the UK-wide rollout of Business Advance – a programme designed to help young entrepreneurs sustain and grow their businesses through the critical first three years of trading. Just over a year on, the programme is already demonstrating the tangible difference it is making to the lives and businesses of young people across the UK.

Since the launch of Business Advance, 739 young people have taken part in the programme. These entrepreneurs have received tailored support including mentorship, structured business reviews, workshops and networking opportunities with 83% of participants reporting increased confidence and business knowledge.

The programme continues to reach a diverse and inclusive group of young people reflecting a shared commitment to ensure the opportunity is accessible to all, regardless of background. 30% are from minority ethnic backgrounds, 32% come from the top 20% most deprived areas in the UK and 57% are female.

Business Advance is part of LDC’s broader partnership with The King’s Trust, which has now supported 5,194 young entrepreneurs across the UK, with LDC also funding more than 2,200 business start up grants. This milestone is a testament to the power of long-term collaboration and the belief that with the right support, young people can achieve extraordinary things.

One of the standout moments of the past year was the success of Brandon Hulcoop, Founder of All Things Dotty and winner of the inaugural Youth Ambition Award, as part of The Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders in 2024. Brandon’s entrepreneurial journey has continued to flourish, and we were delighted to see him also win ‘The King’s Trust ‘Enterprise Award’ in June. His story is a shining example of the talent and determination that Business Advance is designed to nurture.

As we reflect on the first year of Business Advance, we’re inspired by the resilience, creativity, and ambition of the young entrepreneurs we’ve had the privilege to support. Their journeys are just beginning, and we’re excited to continue walking alongside them as they grow their businesses and shape the future of the UK economy.

LDC has more than 40 years of experience helping UK management teams grow their business, our partnership with The King’s Trust is a vital part of extending that support to the future generation of business leaders.