Sbardun is a joint initiative developed by the Development Bank of Wales and Welsh Government to help up to 20 ambitious Welsh businesses accelerate their growth.
Designed for established businesses with significant growth potential, Sbardun brings together investment, leadership expertise, specialist support and peer learning through a single, coordinated programme. The aim is to provide the right support, at the right time, helping businesses overcome barriers to growth and achieve their ambitions faster.
What support is available?
Businesses selected for Sbardun will benefit from:
- Dedicated support from experienced Development Bank of Wales relationship managers and growth specialists
- A tailored growth plan focused on accelerating business performance
- Access to specialist expertise in areas such as leadership development, exporting, innovation, productivity, digital transformation and strategy
- Support to access the wider Welsh business support ecosystem, including Welsh Government grants, skills programmes, innovation support and export opportunities
- Access to an experienced independent board advisor to strengthen governance and strategic capability
- Opportunities to learn alongside a trusted peer network of ambitious business leaders
- Leadership events and workshops featuring successful entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Patient capital and funding aligned to long-term growth ambitions
Who is Sbardun for?
Sbardun is designed for businesses that:
- Be an existing customer of the Development Bank of Wales and have an established trading history*
- Typically have a turnover of £3 million or more and employ at least 10 people
- Have a credible opportunity for future growth
- Are looking to grow through innovation, productivity improvements, exports, new markets or organisational development
- Are committed to strengthening leadership, governance and strategic capability
- Are willing to invest time and focus in delivering ambitious growth plans
*Be an existing customer or have applied for and received funding before 1 April 2027
A coordinated approach to growth
One of the key benefits of Sbardun is its ability to connect businesses with the wider support available across Wales.
Working closely with Business Wales and Welsh Government, the programme is designed to help businesses access the most relevant support for their growth ambitions, including innovation, skills, trade and export services, as well as specialist sector expertise. This joined-up approach means businesses can spend less time navigating different support programmes and more time focused on growth.
Ready to scale your business?
We're looking for ambitious Welsh businesses with the potential to achieve significant growth. Applications for Sbardun will open in November 2026.
Looking for additional support?
If you're exploring opportunities to grow your business, you can find out more about our funding here and access support through Business Wales.
Business Wales provides a range of services to help Welsh businesses start, grow and scale, including specialist advice, skills support and the Accelerated Growth Programme. Find out more about Business Wales.
