Fund manager Whiterock has invested £70 million into Northern Ireland businesses through two funds backed by the British Business Bank.

Since 2024, Whiterock has deployed £40 million into 15 companies through its £75 million equity fund and £30 million into 60 companies through its £60 million debt fund, known as the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland.

Equity investments have gone to companies such as Drinksology, MANTIS and Around Noon, while debt funding has supported businesses including Neighbourhood Café, Nomadic Watches, Axial 3D and BLK BOX.

Whiterock has operated in Northern Ireland for more than 14 years, managing over £255 million across five funds. It has deployed over £190 million, leveraged over £150 million from other funders, and supported the creation of more than 3,000 jobs.

Paul Millar, Whiterock chief executive, said the firm's local knowledge and partnership approach have been valued by businesses across advanced manufacturing, technology and consumer products.

David McCurley, a Whiterock partner, said the company is already considering a second equity fund, aiming to support more UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises with strong management teams.

Sue Barnard, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said the milestone demonstrates the impact of public and private finance in supporting ambitious smaller businesses.

She added that the diversity of supported businesses highlights the importance of a broad funding landscape and that the bank looks forward to the continued impact of this investment across Northern Ireland.