The entrepreneurs behind an innovative aerospace business that used funding from the Start Up Loans programme to develop its first propeller prototype have been appointed as ambassadors for the programme in the East Midlands.
Rowan Carstensen and Andrea Savi founded Flyber Aerospace Composites in 2023. The business manufactures high-performance composite propellers for drones, UAVs, and urban air mobility platforms, serving both civil and defence markets.
Flyber secured £50,000 of Start Up Loans financing, with each co-founder receiving the maximum £25,000 loan. The funding enabled the business to develop its first prototype and invest in the research and development needed to support its manufacturing process. Flyber now supplies the Ministry of Defence, has developed opportunities with prospective customers in the United States, attracted angel investment, and opened a manufacturing facility in Northamptonshire.
With aerospace forming part of the Government’s key Advanced Manufacturing Industrial Strategy sector, the business is now consolidating its UK presence, scaling production, and building partnerships with US customers with ambitions to become a major supplier to the US defence sector. To support its growth ambitions, Flyber is looking to attract £10m worth of investment by 2027 and aims to establish manufacturing facilities in both the United States and India to meet growing demand.
Start Up Loans Ambassadors, has been running for more than a decade and recognises top entrepreneurial talent from all 12 Nations and regions across the UK. In addition, two Ambassadors have been selected to represent specialist groups supported by the programme, including a Gen Z founder and a member of the Armed Forces veterans community.
This year’s Ambassadors have been invited to pass on their one piece of advice to someone starting a business today.
Rowan Carstensen, Co-Founder of Flyber, said: “My advice to founders is to establish your network early. The relationships you build from day one can open doors to expertise, partnerships, and investment that might otherwise take years to access. A strong network can even be the key to unlocking your next opportunity so make the most of every connection and be open to where it might lead.”
Andrea Savi, Co-Founder, Flyber added: “Don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Being able to draw on the expertise and knowledge of mentors and others who have built their own businesses is hugely beneficial. I’ve found people are generous with their time and want to support you.”
Louise McCoy, Managing Director, Start Up Loans, British Business Bank, said: “Flyber is an ambitious and innovative advanced manufacturing company that aligns closely with the Industrial Strategy sectors the British Business Bank helps support. It is great to know the vital role Start Up Loans has played in helping Rowan and Andrea develop their prototype, secure additional investment and establish their manufacturing facility.”
Minister for Small Business and Enterprise Lord Leong, said: “Start Up Loans have helped more than 100,000 entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into real businesses. Behind every business is a founder who took a chance – and the jobs created show how far that ambition can go with the right support.
“This success is a tribute to our determined founders, inspiring ambassadors, and the British Business Bank. I congratulate everyone involved. Giving entrepreneurs the chance to succeed creates opportunities that reach far beyond any one business, benefiting families, communities, and the wider economy.”
In the East Midlands, 40% of loan recipients have been women and 17% from Black, Asian, and Other Minority Ethnic backgrounds (not including White Minorities).
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