Backing ambitious businesses for over 20 years

Startups, SMEs and social enterprises come to BEF for finance that helps them start, grow and create jobs.

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Finance that helps businesses move forward

We believe good businesses deserve the opportunity to succeed.

That's why we provide fair, accessible finance to entrepreneurs and business owners across the North of England. We look beyond automated decisions and focus on the potential behind the plan, supporting businesses with the ambition to grow, invest and make a difference.

For more than 20 years, we've been helping businesses secure the funding they need to move forward with confidence.

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Creating impact through business growth

When businesses grow, communities benefit.

New jobs are created. Local supply chains become stronger. High streets become more resilient. Opportunities reach more people.

That's why our purpose goes beyond lending. We're here to help businesses succeed while creating lasting economic and social impact across the regions we serve.

Every loan helps businesses succeed and communities thrive.

£ 129.5m

Invested directly into small businesses

£ 518m

Generated for the region’s economy

17,610

Jobs created or safeguarded.

5,809

Clients supported and funded

Meet the people behind BEF

Our Board of Directors
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Stephen Waud Chief Executive
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Doug Heseltine Director of Investments
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Alex Beardsley Director
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James Mason Director
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Katie Hurrell Director
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Laurence Beardmore Director
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Penny Hembrow Director
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Tim Hamilton Chair
Yorkshire & The Humber team
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Mark Iley Regional Director Yorkshire and the Humber
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Chris Conroy Loan Manager
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Duane Walker Loan Manager
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Emma Bashforth Loan Manager
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Julie Oates Loan Manager
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Kelly Sharp Loan Manager
North East team
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Lee Vickers Regional Director North East
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Anthony Nicholson Loan Manager
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Chris McGill Loan Manager
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Rowan Green Start Up Loan Manager
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Shannon Donaghy Start Up Loan Manager
North West team
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Simon Truby Regional Director North West
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Ronnie Harris Loan Manager
Start Up Loans team
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Tim Burt Head of Start Up Loans
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Habib Karimi Start Up Loan Team Leader
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Jane Cusse Start Up Loan Team Leader
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Julie Micklethwaite Start Up Loan Manager
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Amber Kershaw Start Up Loan Manager
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Christian Elvidge Start Up Loan Manager
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Abigail Bickerdyke Start Up Loan Administrator
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Sanni Tait Start Up Loan Administrator

Real Northern success stories

See how we’re helping create jobs, fuel growth, and strengthen communities across the region.

Get your free Impact Report

Collaborating for greater impact

Collaboration is key. Our valued partnerships make what we do possible.

Get in touch