Wiltshire-based entrepreneur, Luke Craven, has received Start Up Loan funding to launch sustainable food brand, BiJimini Spices.

BiJimini Spices is using the £21,000 loan to set up supply chains and cover initial manufacturing costs.

BiJimini Spices

 

 

 

Sustainable food production is an important topic to Luke. So, when considering sustainable options for feeding the growing population he realised edible insects could make a big impact.

Although insect consumption is not widely recognised as part of a staple diet in the Western world, whereas in Eastern culture, edible insects have been consumed as an essential source of nutrients for thousands of years.

The product is aimed at those consumers who want to make eco-friendly choices when it comes to their food. Furthermore, the product also has enormous benefits for athletes, as well as those who may be on a restricted diet.

Of the funding, Luke commented “As with any manufacturing business, start-up costs can be very high. This funding has helped me to define my supply chain and begin manufacturing my products. Now I can launch my business at this critical time when the population is realising that climate change caused by food production needs urgent addressing”.

SWIG’s Nicki Kimberley said “As someone who is conscious of the environmental impacts of food production, edible insects are a great way forward. Luke is highly innovative in his approach to sustainability. We hope to see these products widely stocked by the supermarkets in the coming years”.

We have Start Up Loan funding available in Wiltshire and beyond.

SWIG Finance is a non-profit company that supports viable South West businesses that can’t secure sufficient funding from their bank. By empowering underserved SMEs and Start Ups to overcome their financial barriers, we are working to create a more balanced financial ecosystem.

We’re growing every year. In 2021/22, we lent £10.8m to 502 businesses, helping to create and secure over 1,000 jobs and generate £32.3m. For more information visit https://www.swigfinance.co.uk/social-impact-report-2022/

If you’d like an informal chat about your funding requirements, get in touch with our friendly and professional team to see how we can help: info@swigfinance.co.uk / 01872 227 932.

Find out more about

Find out more about