A GROUP which has helped businesses in deprived areas make the next big step has celebrated its birthday.

DSL Business Finance, a not-for-profit business support agency which was set up with investment cash from Anita Roddick's Body Shop, has turned 15.

At a bash at the Trades Hall, Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon and some of the firms that have been helped over the years turned up to mark the occasion.

The organisation has helped more than 600 businesses across Glasgow and west Scotland to create 2000 jobs by providing investment of £7million since 1993.

Speaking at the event Eunice Lancaster, general manger of DSL Business Finance, said: "Our research shows that investing in small businesses and social enterprises creates real jobs and investment in communities which need it most.

"We estimate that as a result of the £7m of loans we have given to businesses in the past 15 years, further investment of £12m has been generated from other organisations.

"DSL has been successful as it is prepared to take a risk by investing in businesses which are considered unbankable' by established lenders - just like the late Ms Roddick did with DSL 15 years ago!

"DSL specifically targets businesses which have been turned down by the banks.

"DSL is a social enterprise, so unlike the banks we don't take a profit. Any profit we do make is back into providing loans for businesses who need it most."

The group runs a £1.5m loan fund for small and start-up businesses, charities and social enterprises to create jobs and investment, particularly in deprived areas.

As a result of its success, DSL has expanded the fund so that businesses across Central Scotland can now access loans of up to £50,000.

It's cash is needed more than ever, as loan applications are up, partly due to the credit crunch.

To mark the anniversary Govan MSP Ms Sturgeon presented awards to two of DSL's best clients.

Tiny Trees Childcare, a children's nursery in Govan, and Celtic Music Radio, the UK's first radio station dedicated to Celtic and roots music, were honoured.

Ms Sturgeon said: "DSL's track record speaks for itself - they've helped hundreds of businesses that might have had nowhere to turn.

"Their contribution supports individual businesses and boosts the wider economy."