Luke Aldridge, 31, and Stephanie Hicks, 25, from Newtown, launched Slate and Soil Gardens earlier this year with a £10,000 loan from the Development Bank of Wales’ Wales Micro Loan Fund.
The funds helped them purchase tools, equipment, and a van to get the business off the ground.
Mr Aldridge said: “With starting up on our own, we needed new equipment, tools, and a new, reliable van.
“Having all of those when starting our own business has taken a lot of stress away, and given us the chance to focus on growing and taking on new customers.”
Between them, the couple have more than 10 years of experience in gardening, landscaping, and groundskeeping, with work spanning Azores vineyards and Welsh campsites.
They now serve clients across north-west Wales, offering services including lawn care, fencing, landscaping, design, clearance, and general garden maintenance.
Their customers range from private garden owners to large estates and outdoor businesses.
Mr Aldridge said: “We were glad to work with the Development Bank on this loan.
“The process was smooth, and it was good for us as a Welsh business to work with an organisation based in Wales to get the support we needed.
“It was all hassle-free and we’re very grateful for the support we’ve had.”
Chris Stork, investment executive at the Development Bank of Wales, said: “Luke and Stephanie are a young couple with years of experience in their trade, and I’m glad to have supported them as they’ve taken the step from working for others to starting their own business.”
He added that the micro loan has already helped them expand their client base.
Mr Stork said: “We would encourage any young entrepreneurs who feel they’re ready to take a similar step towards starting their own business to get in touch with us.”
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