What We Do

As a Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) ART's remit is to ensure that viable businesses and social enterprises in Birmingham and Solihull can access they finance they need.

We lend when the banks have been unable to offer any or all of the money required. In fact we often lend alongside the banks, as well as other financiers,making up the last vital part of the finance package. So if you need between £10,000 and £50,000 call us to discuss your needs or apply today.

Contribution to Policy Research

ART has contributed to, and featured in polcy research, including

The Financing of Social Enterprise - Bank of England - May 2003

Enterprising Communities Wealth beyond Welfare - a report from the Social Investment Task Force - October 2002

Finance for Small Firms - Bank of England - April 2002

Launched in 1997, ART was the first lender of its kind in the UK. Its model - raising money from member investors to be lent locally - is now being replicated in many towns and cities. Since the outset, Chief Executive Steve Walker and his team have shared their experiences and offered advice to others in the sector, both in the UK and around the world.

Steve Walker, Chief Executive,  has also contributed to local and national government policy on access to finance for enterprise. He served a six year term as a member of the National Small Business Investment Task Force, which advises the Small Business Service and the Government. He is also currently a  member of the Regional Finance Forum of Advantage West Midlands.