Cygnets Art

In 2023, Cygnets Art School in Bexleyheath was born out of Director Katya King’s long-standing dream to provide enriching activities for young children. Through the funding and post loan support of the Start Up Loans Programme, Katya was able to make her entrepreneurial dreams a reality by opening a second branch.

Start Up Loans, part of the British Business Bank, has delivered more than £1bn of loans since its inception in 2012. A significant number of companies, including Cygnets Art School, have benefitted from the programme so far, with over 105,000 businesses receiving loans.

The main aim of the programme is to ensure that viable start-ups and early-stage businesses have access to essential finance and support. Part of this is a Post Loan Support service, delivered through Newable and UMi, who offer free mentoring, online support services and webinars.

In addition to a loan, Katya was able to access this service and make the most of the opportunities created by the funding.

Katya’s art school operates as part of a franchise which aims to inspire children throughout the UK to pursue an artistic interest.

She turned to Start Up Loans to secure funding for opening a new branch in Sevenoaks following the success of the Bexleyheath studio. The loan of £6,500 played a pivotal role in expanding the business by providing the finance needed to acquire another outlet. Once the franchise was secured the extra funds could even be used to support working capital.

The journey so far has been a promising one. Having already created four jobs in the original branch, there are new prospects as a result of the opening in Sevenoaks.

Demand for the uniquely educational art services has continued to grow, with this investment providing relief to an expanding client base and credible waiting list.

Although, money was only part of the solution and Katya found great value in the Post Loan Support service.

Katya said: “The engagement with the advisor has been an exceptionally positive one. The guidance received was not only helpful but also provided a valuable sounding board for ideas. The fresh perspectives brought by the mentor proved instrumental in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.”

Looking to capitalise on the skills and confidence gained from the mentoring process, there are big ambitions for future growth.

Katya envisions a retail venture combining a studio with the sale of unique gift and household items, planning to create a space where art classes and workshops seamlessly coexist with a curated retail experience.

She continued: “The best part of running my own business is the autonomy it brings – being my own boss and managing my time to align the business with my vision. The post-loan support I received gave me the confidence to do those things, as well as look ahead to the next chapter of my entrepreneurial journey.”

According to the Start Up Loans Year 3 Evaluation, the mentoring offered has a significant impact on recipients. Nearly three quarters (74%) of those receiving support reported net positive effects on long-term job prospects, and 80% reported net positive effects on confidence in running and managing a business.

Cygnets Art School is a testament to the success achievable through Start Up Loan support when guided by dedication, strategic planning, and entrepreneurial spirit. The art school continues to flourish, promising an even more vibrant future with its unique blend of art education and community engagement.