We worked with John Coombs to apply for our startup loan. I was SO GRATEFUL the entire process as John understood exactly what was necessary, helped my partner and me every step of the way, even went... See more
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Review summary
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Based on these reviews
Working with John at NWES has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. He made what could have been a stressful process feel incredibly smooth, clear, and painless. His support, guidance... See more
Company replied
We worked with NWES as part of the Start Up Loan scheme. I had the pleasure of communicating with Michele Stewart, Nicole Wells and Letitia Cavanagh, all of whom were both helpful and knowledgeable. T... See more
Company replied
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Start Up business team and NWES. For years, my business was only a dream, taking the first step felt overwhelming — until I connected with the NWES... See more
Company replied
Company details
Written by the company
A leading enterprise agency supporting new and growing businesses across the East of England and London since 1982. As a trusted Business Support Partner of the Start Up Loan scheme, we specialise in helping entrepreneurs secure start-up finance and turn their business ideas into reality.
Contact info
Guildhall Hill 4, NR2 1JH, Norwich, United Kingdom
- www.nwes.org.uk
4.7
Excellent
71 reviews
Replied to 50% of negative reviews
Typically replies within 24 hours
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SO WORTH IT!! 🙏🏾 Thank you
I had such a positive experience with the Start Up Loans process from beginning to end.
At first, I was a bit unsure about the process, especially when it came to putting together all the documents and making sure everything matched properly. However, the support I received made a huge difference.
My Business Adviser, John, was really helpful throughout. He took the time to review everything in detail, explain what needed to be improved, and guided me through the changes step by step. Nothing felt rushed, and I felt like he genuinely wanted me to succeed and submit the strongest application possible.
There were a few areas that needed refining, particularly around my financials and projections, but with the feedback I was given, I was able to update everything properly and gain a much better understanding of my own business in the process.
What I appreciated most was how supportive and approachable the whole experience felt. It didn’t feel intimidating or overwhelming, and I always felt comfortable asking questions and making adjustments.
I’m really grateful for the support I received and would definitely recommend the Start Up Loans programme to anyone looking to take their business to the next level.
Thank you again for all your help
March 31, 2026
Unprompted review
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My advisor was superb throughout and…
My advisor was superb throughout and took the time to understand my business model and how best to present it. It's daunting launching a business, and NWES made the process so much easier.
March 31, 2026
Unprompted review
Outstanding Support and Guidance Throughout the Loan Application Process
Working with John, Michelle, Trudy John, and Nicole throughout my loan application process was a genuinely positive experience. John and Nicole stood out in particular—they were extremely supportive, consistently patient, John would make time for video calls to clearly walk me through areas I didn’t understand. Their ability to simplify complex information made a real difference. The whole team was responsive, professional, and easy to work with, creating a smooth and reassuring process from start to finish. I felt well guided at every stage and would confidently recommend their support to others.
March 27, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for taking the time to share such detailed feedback. We’re really pleased to hear that you felt well supported throughout your loan application and that John and Nicole were able to make the process clear and reassuring for you. It’s great to know the wider team also helped create a smooth and positive experience. We truly appreciate your recommendation and wish you every success moving forward.
honestly really well set up and my...
honestly really well set up and my whole experience was educational and well thought out. John was extremely nice and willing to help and made the whole process very easy to understand. couldnt reccomend more.
March 26, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for your lovely feedback. We’re really pleased to hear that you found the process clear, well structured, and educational. John will be delighted to know his support made such a positive difference. We truly appreciate your recommendation and wish you all the very best going forward.
Great support
I had fantastic support from John for my start up loan application. As a novice to the business world, his advice and help was invaluable. Thank you!
March 25, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for your kind review.
We’re delighted to hear that you felt so well supported throughout your Start Up Loan application. John will be really pleased to know that his advice and guidance made a positive difference, especially as you navigate the business world for the first time.
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Flawless professionalism from NW
Flawless professionalism from this company, and not just limited to one person. Charlotte, John and Michele were all extremely helpful and the levels of efficiency, communication and - important during what can be a stressful process - encouragement and positivity were really impressive. Grateful for their support.
March 24, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for taking the time to share your feedback.
We’re really pleased to hear that you experienced such a high level of professionalism and support throughout the process. Knowing that the efficiency, communication, encouragement, and positivity from Charlotte, John, and Michele helped make what can be a stressful journey feel more manageable is exactly what we aim for.
Your kind words mean a great deal to the team, and we’re grateful you chose to work with NWES. We wish you every success moving forward and are delighted to have supported you along the way.
Best wishes,
The NWES Team
Absolutely fantastic experience from…
Absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish.
Both Michele and Stuart Balmer have been incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. From the initial application to the approval of my Tranche B loan, everything was handled with professionalism, clarity, and genuine care.
What really stood out was how approachable and responsive they both were — any questions I had were answered quickly, and I always felt guided rather than just processed.
Thanks to their support, I’ve been able to take my business to the next level, and the funding will make a real difference in continuing that growth.
I would highly recommend NWES to anyone looking for support and funding — a truly great experience.
Thank you again Michele and Stuart!
March 24, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review, Gabriele.
We’re really pleased to hear that you had a positive experience throughout the process and that you felt supported, informed, and guided at each stage. It’s especially good to know that the clarity, responsiveness, and care shown by Michele and Stuart made a genuine difference for you.
Congratulations on the approval of your Tranche B loan – we’re delighted to have been able to support you at this next stage and to play a small part in helping you take your business forward.
Wishing you every success as you continue to grow, and thank you again for recommending NWES.
Best wishes,
The NWES Team
Challenging but satisfied
The process took very long and sometimes it was frustrating. As someone worked with entrepreneurs I believe the process should be simplified and more encouraging.
However the mentor I had was amazing, always positive, smiling and supportive. I really appreciate that.
March 20, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave a review and for sharing your experience.
We appreciate that the process can feel lengthy and, at times, frustrating. A Start Up Loan is a personal loan for business use, and as such it requires a higher level of due diligence than many people initially expect. This is to ensure that applicants are properly supported, fully informed, and that the funding is sustainable and responsible.
That said, we’re really pleased to hear such positive feedback about your mentor. Providing encouraging, supportive, and professional guidance throughout the journey is something we place great importance on, so it’s lovely to hear that this made a difference to your experience.
Thank you again for your honest feedback — we wish you every success with your business going forward.
Letitia is the most helpful advisor
Letitia is the most helpful advisor, fast response I would recommend her to anyone, she really made it happen!
March 20, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you so much for your kind feedback. We’re really pleased to hear how helpful and responsive Letitia was throughout your application, and that she helped make things happen for you. We’ll be sure to pass on your thanks to her, and we really appreciate your recommendation.
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Letitia was great support throughout
Letitia was great support throughout. The process was very quick and organised and has given me the opportunity to now start my business venture. Definitely recommend.
March 19, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for your lovely feedback. We’re delighted to hear that Letitia provided great support and that the process felt quick and well organised. It’s wonderful to know this has helped you take the next step in starting your business, and we really appreciate your recommendation.
I worked with Michelle for my start up…
I worked with Michelle for my start up loan and her support and advice was second to none.
Very helpful, communicated with me every step of the way.
March 17, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for your kind feedback. While Letitia was your main advisor throughout the application, Michele did support in the background, and we’re really pleased to hear that the overall guidance, communication, and support felt so strong. We’ll be sure to pass on your comments to Letitia, and we’re delighted we could support you on your Start Up Loan journey.
Very quick decision!
March 17, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for your feedback. We’re pleased to hear you were happy with how quickly a decision was made, and we’ll be sure to pass your comments on to Stuart. We wish you every success going forward.
I recently worked with NWES during my Startup Loan application
I recently worked with NWES during my application process and the service was outstanding. I want to specifically thank especially Charlotte, Mitchell,Zoe and John Coomb for their exceptional guidance and support. They were professional, supportive, and made the entire process much clearer. Their expertise was invaluable in helping me move forward with my venture. Highly recommended!
February 1, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for taking the time to share such positive feedback. We’re delighted to hear that you found the support from NWES outstanding and that Charlotte, Michele, Zoe and John Coomb were able to guide you clearly and professionally through the application process.
We’re really pleased their expertise and support helped you move forward with confidence, and we’ll be sure to pass on your kind words to the team. Thank you again for the recommendation, and we wish you every success with your venture.
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Thank you!
I had a very positive experience with Nwes, all thanks to John C! He took time to ensure all was in order and was very helpful when needed. John kept me in the loop, and did everything he could in the timely manner. Much recommended! Thank you John! :)
March 12, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you very much for your lovely feedback. We’re delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience.
Keeping clients informed and providing clear, timely support is something we really value, and it’s great to know this made a difference for you. We’ll be sure to pass your kind comments on to John.
Thank you again for the recommendation and for taking the time to share your experience.
Everyone needs a John!
Everyone needs a John C!!! He was absolutely amazing, helpful, direct, honest, professional, knowledgeable and kind. I’m so grateful
March 10, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re delighted to hear about your experience working with John and that you found his support helpful, honest, and professional throughout. We’ll be sure to pass on your lovely feedback to him — it’s always greatly appreciated. Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience.
Loan secured thanks to NWES!
I recently worked with Nwes to secure a loan for my business, and I couldn't be any happier with the service. Letitia and Michele were absolutely brilliant throughout the entire process. They were knowledgeable, supportive and made securing the funding straightforward. I highly recommend their services to any business owners looking for finance.
March 9, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a lovely review — it really means a lot to us. I’m delighted to hear that you had a positive experience working with NWES, and I’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to Letitia as well. Supporting business owners through the funding process and helping make it as clear and straightforward as possible is exactly what we aim to do, so it’s great to know this came across. We wish you every success with your business
excellent service
Spent my time with Sergio. He was quick, to the point, and frequently insightful. Process was very smooth thanks to his help.
February 28, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for the great feedback, James. We’re really pleased to hear you had such a smooth experience and that Sergio was able to support you so effectively. I’ll be sure to pass on your kind words to him. Thanks again for taking the time to leave a review.
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I worked with John at Nwes as part of…
I worked with John at Nwes as part of my Start Up Loan application through the British Business Bank. Communication was quick and he reviewed my business plan efficiently, pointing out what needed adjusting to meet the bank's criteria. The process was straightforward and we got the loan approved. Would recommend for anyone going through the application.
February 2, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for your recommendation. We’re delighted to hear you had a positive experience working with John at NWES and that his guidance helped make the application process clear and successful. It’s great to know the support and feedback on your business plan were helpful. We wish you every success with your new business.
Great support from the team
Great support from the team, quick replies and nudges to get my application sorted and approved.
February 24, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for your great feedback. We’re really pleased to hear that our team’s support, responsiveness and timely guidance helped move your application through smoothly to approval. Helping our clients stay on track and succeed is exactly what we strive for, so your comments mean a lot to us.
Very productive and professional staff…
Very productive and professional staff I respect them especially Mr. John Coombs. Thank you for your service and hard work.
February 18, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Nwes
Thank you for your fantastic feedback. Providing a professional, productive service is central to our values, and it’s great to hear this reflected in your experience. We’ll be sure to pass on your appreciation to John Coombs and the wider team.
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