Why BEF business loans beat online lenders
If you’re a small or medium-sized business looking for funding, you may have come across online lenders. They promise quick applications, instant decisions, and fast cash. That sounds attractive if you need money urgently, but is speed the only thing that matters when choosing a lender?
At Business Enterprise Fund (BEF), we take a different approach. We offer tailored finance with long-term support, helping businesses not only borrow but also grow sustainably. Here’s why borrowing from BEF could be the smarter choice for your business.
Short-term loans vs long-term stability
Online lenders often focus on short-term loans of 12 to 24 months, with high monthly interest rates. On paper, they look quick and easy. In practice, they result in high monthly repayments that can suffocate your cashflow.
BEF offers loans over 5 years. That can cut your monthly repayments by up to 50% compared to short-term online loans. The result? More cash left in your business each month to hire staff, buy stock, or simply breathe easier.
Why relationships beat algorithms
Online lenders rely on algorithms. If your credit score dips or your accounts show a seasonal downturn, the computer says no.
At BEF, people make the decisions. We assess your potential, not just your past numbers. We understand local industries and challenges across the North and take the time to look at the whole picture.
Example: A North East client was tied into a short-term loan with punishing monthly repayments that drained their cashflow. BEF saw their long-term potential and stepped in with a 5-year loan that eased cashflow pressure and gave additional working capital to grow.
Transparent costs, no surprises
One of the biggest frustrations with online loans is hidden or unexpected costs. Upfront fees, variable rates, or expensive monthly interest can make borrowing far costlier than it first appears.
At BEF, our costs are clear:
- A simple 4% setup fee
- Competitive fixed interest rates
- No hidden charges
- Low repayment repayment fees
What you see is what you pay.
More than money: a long-term partner
When online lenders fund your business, the transaction often ends there. For them, it’s about scale, speed, and increasingly, data. They want your numbers, not your relationship.
BEF is different. We’re in it for the long term. That means:
- Business mentoring and advice tailored to your sector
- Flexible refinancing if circumstances change
- A real relationship with someone invested in your success
We’ve funded start-ups, businesses with poor credit histories, and companies that banks or online lenders have turned away. What matters to us is your potential and your plan.
Who should you borrow from?
Choose an online lender if:
- You only care about speed
- You’re happy with short repayment terms and high monthly costs
- You don’t want ongoing support beyond the loan
Choose BEF if:
- You want a loan tailored to your business, not a one-size-fits-all deal
- You value transparent pricing with no hidden surprises
- You want a long-term partner, not just a quick cash provider
Your business deserves more than quick cash. It deserves funding that protects your cashflow, backs your growth, and comes with a partner who’s invested in your success.
Email us at [email protected] to talk through your options or