b'20 Mercia asset Management PLc Annual Report and Accounts 2021Responsible business continuedDelivering a positive social impact to the regionsOur vision is to be the first choice for our employees,Mercia has a history of making a difference to the regions and delivering a positive investors and investees and we are proud of the progresssocial impact to our stakeholders, which that we have made on this journey that has seen uswe see as an integral part of our financial return motivation. As part of our welcome a diverse and respected stakeholder base. Ourcommitment to operate responsibly, we investors, shareholders and team have responded to ourare taking the long view in delivering commitment to build a culture, inclusive business modelsustainable investment solutions. We have supported our portfolio companies with and innovative investment solutions capable of building ajob creation and protection within the UK sustainable future for all our stakeholders. regions, as well as engaging with our communities to address inequalities and pursue sustainable economic growth Mercia has always been a purpose-ledthrough technological innovation. We are proactively seeking to incorporate ESG business; providing growth capital andCodifiedwhile building and managing our tailored investment solutions to thrivingportfolio, building on the last years regional businesses to create long-termcommitmentmomentum. shareholder value. The pandemic has shone a light on the inherent value ofOur approach is now entrenched with the being a responsible business which can beWithin the last year, weveestablishment of our Responsible seen in our tangible results as well as thechallenged ourselves to codify ourInvestment Committee, which ensures indefatigable spirit of the team. Being ableesg approach, which we have donedelivery against our guiding principles, to call upon and leverage the diversity ofin three ways:inspired by the UNs Sustainable skills, critical analysis, problem-solvingDevelopment Goals (SDGs):and strength of character that such aReviewing Mercias own values sustainable economic growth:multifaceted team brings to bear, hasand culture Provide support for entrepreneurship allowed Mercia to make decisions guidedAnalysing and better understandingand SME growthby our core values, while always ensuringour origination and pre-investmentSupport and promote job creation and we look back on our results with a criticalanalysis process talent developmenteye. We believe our culture ofDeveloping our focus on ourFocus on technology innovation.empowerment, trust and entrepreneurialportfolio value-creation tactics,reducing inequalities within spirit enables us to design and implementespecially around reporting andour communities:innovative investment solutions toongoing monitoring.Reduce inequalities across the UKsupport the attainment of our vision.and within UK regionsEmpower and promote diversityc.94m and inclusion.Health and wellbeing for all:invested into the regions Promote health and wellbeingSupport the identification and use467 of effective and essential treatments and other healthcare services.Jobs created by regional venture'