The Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) is a non-profit social enterprise, established to offer loans to small businesses (SMEs) and social enterprises, aiding their growth, success, and impact on their local communities.
Picture a world where your small businesses can transform communities through wealth and job creation. This is the mission at the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF).
In the last 11 years, we haven't just given out loans; we've ignited potential. We've injected over £108 million into small businesses, boosted the economy by £392.4 million, and helped create or safeguard 13,140 jobs. But it's not all about the money – it’s about making real dreams come true, creating jobs, and changing communities for the better.
We do this because we know that small businesses are not just part of the economy; they are the heart of innovation, the backbone of their communities, and the future of the economy. Sadly, small business owners and entrepreneurs are often shackled by the constraints of traditional finance; held back by geographical limitations, industry biases, and systemic inequalities. We help break those shackles.
Our story began in Bradford in 2004, not out of ambition to be just another financial institution, but from a vision to make a difference, to challenge the status quo of economic inclusion, growth, and impact. Over 20 years, this vision has not faded; it has only intensified, driving us to support an ever-growing number of small businesses across the North.
We offer more than loans; we offer a partnership that grows as businesses grow, a belief in someone’s dream. Understanding and aligning with each business's unique journey towards success is central to our mission. We offer Start Up Loans and small business loans, along with a commitment that every entrepreneur receives personal service from a dedicated investment manager.
Our roots remain deep in Bradford, where our City Hub headquarters provide a Grade A office space to local SME businesses. We’re here to make a big impact, to help small businesses make their mark, not just locally but all over Yorkshire, Humberside, the North East, the North West, and North Lincolnshire.
For more information on BEF, download our latest Social Impact Report.
Our service is all about the skills and knowledge of our people.
Contracts Manager
Fund Administrator
Collaboration is key. These are the people we work with to make what we do possible.
