Charlotte Keenan, the head of corporate engagement at Goldman Sachs International, has declared that backing entrepreneurs is the single most effective strategy for fuelling economic expansion. Her comments come as the bank celebrates the 15th anniversary of its flagship UK small business support initiative.
The Blueprint for National Prosperity
Speaking in a recent interview, Keenan pointed to the tangible success of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) UK programme as definitive proof. An impact report published last week revealed that alumni of the scheme have generated an estimated £2.7 billion in additional revenue and created approximately 41,000 extra jobs.
"We've proved that investing in the confidence and capability of entrepreneurs is the single most powerful way to drive economic growth," Keenan stated. She described this achievement not just as a professional milestone, but as evidence of a successful blueprint for national prosperity.
From Sandhurst to Som Saa: A City Insider's View
Keenan, a trained sommelier who lives in Parsons Green, West London, has a unique perspective on the UK's financial heart. She praised the City of London as a dynamic hub of brilliant and internationally-minded talent. However, she argued it must become more welcoming to small, innovative companies, which often face high costs and opaque networks designed for larger players.
Her most memorable workday involved taking entrepreneurs from the 10KSB programme to the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst for a leadership course, culminating in a simulated military mission. Her proudest moments are inspired by the programme's 2,500 UK alumni, whom she looks up to. She highlighted success stories like Dorian Payne, who built a multi-million-pound social housing enterprise, and Jo Tutchener Sharp, who founded a projected £27m turnover give-back business after brain surgery.
Strategic Advice and Future Optimism
Keenan shared the best career advice she ever received, from her time as CEO of the Tony Blair Foundation: "If the pie is bigger, the slice is bigger." This growth mindset, she explained, underpins her advocacy for small businesses. Conversely, she warned against the worst advice: that a great product sells itself, emphasising the need for active market creation.
Looking ahead to 2026, Keenan is optimistic. A key focus will be advancing "The Growth Agenda" – 18 policy ideas developed with business leaders and HM Treasury officials to boost the UK's prospects. "We will be working with small businesses, government and the wider startup ecosystem to bring these ideas to life," she confirmed.
When not championing entrepreneurs, Keenan can be found enjoying Thai food at Som Saa, wine at the Winemakers Club, or, at weekends, ferrying her children around Parsons Green for netball and parties.
