Santander Navigator is an advanced trade facilitation platform supporting UK businesses in expanding internationally. Designed for the Food & Drink, Retail & Wholesale, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, and Tech, Media & Telecoms sectors, it helps scaleups grow by providing essential tools that save time and reduce costs. Since its launch, Santander Navigator has supported over 2,050 businesses in entering new markets, with notable success in the USA, India, and the Middle East. It has helped 74% of registered businesses overcome international growth challenges by connecting them with global networks, while 41% have accessed training or upskilling resources and 32% have used the talent-matching feature. In 2024, the programme introduced an ESG scoring feature, equipping over 1,230 businesses with insights to enhance sustainability performance.

The platform offers a suite of tailored services. The Personalised Insights Hub delivers sector-specific insights, while the Explore Markets tool covers 35 global markets, helping businesses identify opportunities by subsector and track progress to market readiness. Trade Checklists provide step-by-step guidance on market entry, and the Provider Directory connects businesses to global support providers. The Talent Matching Service, powered by Unibeez, links businesses to over 30,000 students and graduates, supporting recruitment and skill development. Logistics Support offers real-time shipping quotes with discounted rates, and Customs Expertise provides streamlined EU customs clearance via discounted access to the CustomsClear platform. The newly introduced ESG Features, powered by TradeSun, provide businesses with ESG ratings and actionable insights aligned with global frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the EU Taxonomy.

Santander Navigator also fosters a collaborative community, with a Community Forum where businesses can engage with peers, experts, and providers. Events and training opportunities, including webinars and modules on export procedures, rules of origin, and ESG compliance, help businesses stay informed. Recent trade missions have included opportunities in China and South Africa, as well as a UK-India Joint Venture workshop on aerospace and defence. Additionally, Work Café Co-Working Spaces offer businesses access to Santander’s physical office spaces.

Looking ahead, Santander Navigator will launch the Santander Open Academy, a new initiative providing free lifelong learning courses on AI, ESG, and project management to help businesses upskill their workforce. While access to the platform is free, businesses can opt for premium support at an annual fee of up to £3,500. 

The ScaleUp Institute will continue monitoring Santander Navigator’s progress as it enhances the platform based on user feedback and new market demands.

Santander Navigator website