The South West of England has become a hotbed for animal-focused start-ups, with Cornwall at the forefront of this burgeoning trend. Thanks to over £90 million in loans provided through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, a growing number of entrepreneurs are turning their passion for animals into thriving businesses.

Cornwall Leads the Charge in Animal-Focused Ventures

In recent years, the UK has witnessed a significant rise in pet ownership, sparking increased demand for veterinary care, animal nutrition, and pet-related services. According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, UK expenditure on pets and related products rose for the sixth consecutive year in 2023, reaching almost £10.6 billion. This surge has been particularly evident in the South West, where a diverse range of animal-centric businesses have sprung up. Cornwall, known for its strong community ties and love for animals, is leading the charge with innovative start-ups that blend animal care with therapy.

Equine Connect: Harnessing the Healing Power of Horses

Lisa Deacon, a passionate horse rider from Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, founded Equine Connect in 2021. After years of training and gaining experience, Lisa realised the profound impact that interaction with horses could have on people’s mental health. Equine Connect offers therapy sessions where individuals with mental health issues, including trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, can spend time with Lisa’s horses and ponies.

A £25,000 loan from the Start Up Loans programme enabled Lisa to expand her business, funding essential equipment and infrastructure for her farmyard base. This included the creation of a ‘safe corner’ specifically designed for children, providing a comforting environment for therapy. Lisa’s venture has not only offered vital support to those in need but also highlighted the unique bond between humans and animals.

A Growing Trend: Animal Therapy in the South West

The rise of animal therapy start-ups in Cornwall and the wider South West reflects a broader trend towards using animals for therapeutic purposes. As pet ownership continues to grow, so too does the understanding of the benefits that animals can bring to human wellbeing. Start-ups like Lisa’s Equine Connect are tapping into this trend, providing valuable services that cater to the mental health needs of the community.

About the Start Up Loans Programme

The Start Up Loans programme, established in 2012, provides personal loans for business purposes of up to £25,000 at a fixed 6% interest rate per annum. Beyond financial support, the programme also offers free mentoring and business advice, helping new ventures establish themselves and grow.

Since its inception, the programme has delivered over 115,000 loans, totalling more than £1.1 billion in funding. In the financial year 2023/24 alone, nearly 10,000 loans were provided, amounting to approximately £125 million. The programme has a strong track record of supporting diverse entrepreneurs, with 40% of loans going to women and 20% to ethnic minority groups. Notably, 31% of recipients were previously unemployed or economically inactive.

The economic impact of the Start Up Loans programme is significant, with the economic benefits estimated to be nearly six times its costs. This programme is a crucial lifeline for start-ups across the UK, including those in Cornwall, providing the financial support and guidance needed to turn innovative ideas into successful businesses.

A Promising Future for Animal-Focused Start-Ups

As the South West continues to embrace the potential of animal-assisted therapy, Cornwall stands out as a hub of innovation and compassion. With the support of the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, entrepreneurs like Lisa Deacon are transforming their passion for animals into businesses that make a real difference in people’s lives.

The future looks bright for Cornwall’s animal-focused start-ups, with many more ventures likely to emerge as the demand for pet-related services and animal therapy continues to rise.