Forging a Future: AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd thrives with a Start Up Loan

Location: North Shields
Loan type: Start Up
Amount borrowed: Five figures

A North Shields welding businesses has secured a five-figure Start Up Loan to help upgrade production processes and take on larger contracts.

The staff of AMS Welding and Fabrication in North Shields.

AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd was founded by school friends Ali Balçin and Scott Hall in October 2024. It specialises in custom metalwork including welding, fabrication, and repair services across the UK.

Co-founder and lead fabricator, Ali, explored funding options to help the duo build on their essential toolkit. He was introduced to TEDCO Business Support, who referred him to the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. This delivers loans of up to £25k, as well as business mentoring for new founders.

“Starting my own business was a leap of faith, but securing the Start Up Loan gave us the boost we needed," says Ali. "Investing in the right equipment has made a huge difference, and having the freedom to build something with Scott has been incredibly rewarding. We’re excited for what’s ahead as we grow and take on bigger projects.

My family has always inspired me to work in the trade sector. Having studied welding and fabrication at college before spending five years working for others and building up my knowledge and skills, I knew it was time to kickstart my own business.

Scott and I have been really lucky that we gained traction quickly through word-of-mouth referrals and strategic networking, but the Start Up Loan is going to help us propel things even further.”

With valuable support and guidance from Claire Constable, investment manager at BEF, Ali secured a five-figure Start Up Loan.

The funding allowed AMS Welding and Fabrication to invest in better machinery and equipment, including a bandsaw and upgrades to their production processes. These improvements have significantly increased the team’s efficiency and positioned the company to take on larger contracts.

Ali describes the freedom of running his own business as one of the most rewarding aspects of his journey. Working alongside his long-term friend Scott has made the process even more fulfilling, and the investment has set AMS Welding and Fabrication on a path to success.

Looking ahead, Ali and Scott have ambitious plans for the company. As they secure bigger contracts in sectors like pharmaceuticals, nuclear, and bio-industries, they aim to relocate to a larger premises to accommodate their growing operations.

By continuing to network strategically and leveraging social media to build brand awareness, they are determined to expand their reach and solidify their reputation in the industry.

“It’s been fantastic working with Ali and seeing his business flourish," says Claire. "His dedication to his craft and vision for AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd is inspiring. We’re proud to have provided the funding that will help him take the business to the next level.”

From a passion for welding to leading a growing business, Ali’s story is one of determination, invaluable investment, and a vision for the future. As the business scales up, thanks to the Start Up Loan funding, it’s clear that AMS Welding and Fabrication Ltd is on a strong trajectory towards success.