NatWest Group has launched NatWest Venture Banking, a new division designed to support high-growth UK businesses scale up operations.

NatWest Venture Banking brings together specialist teams from across the bank into a single, integrated proposition aimed at supporting companies from early-stage ideation through to global growth. The unit will operate through a relationship-led regional model, combining dedicated teams with sector expertise and flexible capital solutions, the bank said.

NatWest added that the move responds to growing demand from founders and investors for more sophisticated financial partners capable of supporting businesses at critical growth stages, including fundraising, scaling operations and entering new markets.

As part of the launch, NatWest announced it had signed a new strategic partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS). The bank said this will give venture banking clients access to
AWS’s cloud capabilities, technical expertise and global network, adding that the new service will focus on helping technology-led startups accelerate development and expansion.

Alongside the AWS partnership, NatWest will work closely with venture capital firms that can offer fund banking expertise and support for portfolio companies. The bank expects this to improve capital flows and strengthen collaboration across the UK’s innovation ecosystem.

“Innovation led businesses are central to the UK’s future prosperity – driving productivity, jobs and global competitiveness,” said Paul Thwaite, chief executive of NatWest Group. “Too many founders still face barriers to scaling, and NatWest Venture Banking is designed to change that.
“By combining specialist expertise, tailored support and a powerful ecosystem, we’re backing ambition with action to support the next chapter of UK growth.”

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