Digital Planning has been shortlisted in the High Growth Company category of the Barclays Entrepreneur Awards 2025.
The UK-wide award category, which is sponsored by asset finance company Propel, recognises entrepreneurs who are achieving consistent growth and market impact.
Digital Planning has grown from a £2,000 startup loan to £2m annual turnover in 5 years – with revenue doubling each year.
Founders Mark Underwood and James Ferraby launched the company despite the backdrop of the Pandemic, going on to build business from the ground up through their own resilience and creativity.
The Digital Planning team has grown by 157% over the last 12 months, expanding to 25 specialists, and moving the Loughborough-based business from micro to small business status.
Each team member brings technical expertise, quality and secure project delivery. Working together, it means Digital Planning offers complex data and full-stack digital solutions which help clients drive productivity and unlock new capabilities.
Annual UK business awards
The annual Barclays Entrepreneur Awards – now in their 10th year – recognise and celebrate outstanding UK entrepreneurs and businesses that are driving innovation, disrupting industries, and making a positive impact on the economy and society. The awards highlight entrepreneurs in a range of categories, with winners expected to be revealed in a ceremony in November.
Digital Planning Cofounder, Mark Underwood said: “Back in the dark days of Lockdown, we never thought that five years later we’d be recognised by Barclays like this.
“The Pandemic had devastated our previous sector overnight, so we channelled our resilience and creativity into building Digital Planning from the ground up.
“Being recognised by Barclays is both an honour and a reminder of why we keep pushing boundaries.”
Digital Planning’s high growth is underpinned by strong partnerships. Collaborations with St James’s Place, Eagle Labs, and the Royal Society have supported development and enabled expansion.
AI innovation and global ambitions
In 2025, Digital Planning launches Metis, its AI-powered resource allocation platform, positioning the business as a UK leader in digital solutions supporting clients worldwide.
The Barclays Entrepreneur Awards celebrates entrepreneurs who are driving innovation, growth, and positive change in the UK. Digital planning consistently advances digital solutions, creates jobs and contributes to East Midlands growth.
