NatWest Group is increasing its focus to spur economic expansion across the UK through targeted support for midsized companies and emerging entrepreneurs. Recent initiatives announced on 10 March 2026 highlight the bank’s focus on regional leadership and innovation, reinforcing its “Growing Together” strategy to back local economies and the businesses that power them.
In a high-profile step, the group has named dedicated Mid-Market Champions across all 12 UK nations and regions.
The move was unveiled at a reception hosted by Chancellor Rachel Reeves at 11 Downing Street, marking the first anniversary of the Mid-Market Growth Council.
Recent research commissioned by NatWest shows overwhelming demand for such visible advocates: 90 percent of midsized firms believe a regional leader would accelerate their own expansion, while 91 percent see it boosting local economies overall.
Almost nine in ten also expect the role to improve policy influence with devolved and local governments.
Midsized businesses—typically those with annual revenues of £10 million to £100 million or 50 to 500 employees—remain deeply embedded in their communities.
Three-quarters of those surveyed describe their regional economies as essential engines of national growth.
Employment data underscores their importance: these firms account for the largest share of jobs in places such as Scotland (27 percent), the West Midlands (24 percent), and the North East (23 percent).
Analysts estimate that even a single percentage point of additional growth in this segment could generate £35 billion for the UK economy, with £24 billion flowing outside the South East.
Group CEO Paul Thwaite described the appointments as a way to deepen regional expertise and strengthen NatWest’s position as the bank for this critical sector.
The new champions will serve as advocates, gathering local insights, shaping priorities for the Mid-Market Growth Council, and helping unlock opportunities nationwide.
The full roster includes Kevin Havelock in Scotland, Jess Shipman in Wales, Kenton Hilman in Northern Ireland, and representatives in every English region from the North West to the South West.
In parallel, Royal Bank of Scotland—part of NatWest Group—launched its first-ever Accelerator Pitch competition in Scotland.
Entrepreneurs can now compete for a £30,000 prize fund, with the live final scheduled for 24 April at the official opening of the bank’s new Accelerator Hub on Edinburgh’s Princes Street.
Entrants must submit a 60-second video pitch by 5pm on 26 March; six finalists will then present in front of a judging panel and audience.
One winner will also receive a high-profile out-of-home advertising campaign from JCDecaux UK.
The format builds on earlier successful events in Manchester, London, and Northern Ireland.
Regional Accelerator Director Heidi Simpson acknowledged the contest as a celebration of Scottish entrepreneurial efforts and a good way to inaugurate the new hub.
Thanh Catachanas, Head of Collaboration and Acquisition at JCDecaux UK, highlighted the partnership’s value in helping startups gain visibility and scale.
Together, these announcements demonstrate NatWest Group’s commitment to nurturing both established midsized businesses and tomorrow’s innovators.
By combining regional representation with practical startup support, the bank aims to deliver tangible growth that benefits communities and the wider UK economy.