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Start or grow your business without collateral or security.

Starting your own business can be tough, especially when it comes to finding the money you need to get going. One of the biggest hurdles is not having enough assets to offer as security for a loan. Traditional lenders like banks usually want something valuable, like a house, as a backup in case you can't pay back the loan. This is a common challenge for many aspiring business owners who just don't have that kind of collateral or security.

A Start Up Loan can make your business dreams come true. It's tough starting your own thing, especially when you need cash but don't have things like a house to secure a loan. That's where Start Up Loans shine.

They're for aspiring and existing business owners like you, providing essential funds to launch and expand without needing any assets as backup. It's all about turning those big ideas into reality, no collateral or security needed.

What is a Start Up Loan?

A Start Up Loan is an unsecured personal loan for business use.

Key Features:

  • For: Businesses trading less than 36 months.
  • Loan amount: Borrow up to £25,000 (BEF average loan size = £11,000).
  • Interest rates: 6% fixed. Take advantage of a low interest rate to help start or grow your business.
  • Repayment terms: Enjoy flexible repayment options spanning 1 to 5 years.
  • One business, four Loans: Up to four partners or directors can each apply for a Start-Up Loan for the same business.
  • Additional benefits: Take advantage of no arrangement fees, no early repayment fees, and up to 12 months of complimentary post-loan mentoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Of course, you might have some questions. Here are some of the most common ones we get about Start Up Loans. If you have more questions, feel free to get in touch with us.

Am I eligible for a Start Up Loan?

Start Up Loans are designed for individuals who are looking to start or grow their business but lack the necessary assets for traditional security. Eligibility criteria includes:

  • You’re 18 years of age or older
  • You’re a current UK resident
  • You’re starting a new business or have been trading for up to 36 months
  • You’re unable to secure finance from other sources (self-declaration is ok)
  • Your business is based in the UK
  • You have the right to work in the UK
  • Your business type and loan purpose is eligible under terms of the scheme
  • You pass the Start Up Loan Company credit checks and you can afford to repay the loan

How can I use a Start Up Loan once approved?

A Start Up Loan is here to help your start-up grow, but we get that every business is different. You can generally use the loan for things like day-to-day costs, premises, equipment, stock, marketing, bringing on new team members, or other ways to build your business. Still, we suggest explaining how you plan to use the money in your application, so it matches up with what the loan is meant for.

What documents are required for the application?

Usually, you'll need to show us your Business Plan, Cash Flow Forecast, Personal Survival Budget, and Personal Bank Statements from the last three months. Don't worry, one of our friendly Investment Managers will let you know if we need anything else from you.

Can I apply if I have a poor credit history?

We look at every application carefully, considering more than just your credit history. Even if your credit isn't perfect, it doesn't mean you're out of the running. We suggest talking with an Investment Manager about your particular case to figure out the best way to move forward.

Client Testimonials

Hearing from fellow start-up owners can provide that extra dose of inspiration and confidence you need. That's why we've gathered testimonials from entrepreneurs who have successfully utilised our no-collateral lending scheme to elevate their businesses. Here are their stories:

““The Business Enterprise Fund has been a huge help in us getting started, with the loan helping on everything from signage to equipment and we’ve so appreciated their ongoing professional advice. We’ve seen a whole variety of patients so far from those taking charge of their preventative care or couples who want to look and feel good in their wedding photos..”

- Laura Ben Mayor, partner, The Spine Guy

“From my first point of contact to completion, I felt very supported and guided through my application process. Julie was always on hand to clarify any queries. She also kept me up to date with the timeline from sending my application to decision making. This was important as I closely watched business outgoings, making sure I stayed in credit.”

- Nina Daniels, owner, NINA D

Why choose BEF?

BEF is more than just a place to borrow money; we're a trusted partner who really wants you to do well. We're all about helping people get the money they need to start their dreams. So far, we've helped over 5,000 people start their journeys with £20 million in Start Up Loan cash.

Here's what we do:

  • Tailored Support: We get that every business is different, so we fit our help to match what you need and what you're aiming for.
  • Real People Making Decisions: No cold, heartless computers here. Our friendly and experienced Investment Managers are the ones who make the call.
  • A Trusty Partner: We're here to offer you flexible money options to help you start and when ready, grow.
  • Teaming Up: We work closely with the British Business Bank to help new businesses in the North East, the Humber, and Yorkshire.

How do I get a Start Up Loan from BEF?

Getting a Start-Up Loan is a simple process:

  1. Online Application Submission
  2. Credit Check and Initial Review
  3. Business Plan and Document Assessment
  4. Interview
  5. Decision and Loan Offer
  6. Acceptance and Funding

Usually, our team of Investment Managers will help you finish everything up within six weeks after you apply.

Representative Start Up Loan Example

£11,000 loan repayable over 5 years. 60 monthly payments of £212.66. Fixed interest rate of interest 6% per annum. Total amount of credit £11,000.Total interest payable £1,759.60.Total cost of credit £1,759.60. Total amount payable is £12,759.60.

This is an illustrative example for a loan of £11,000. Loans of up to £25,000 are available from the Start Up Loans Company. Rates and terms will vary for other loan products from BEF should you not be eligible for a Start Up Loan. Further information is available on request.