Finance Wales: Growth in small loans investment
Investment in small and medium firms by the Welsh government's investment bank rose by 20% to £31m in the last year, figures show.
Finance Wales attribute the rise to growing confidence in the economy.
It says demand for micro loans of up to £25,000 doubled between 2012-13 with more people setting up in business.
Officials admit they do not have the financial "firepower" as high street banks but that they are more willing to invest in start-up businesses.