NACFB Patron lender for broker introductions

We fund SME businesses at all stages across all sectors. A typical BEF client:

• Needs finance to start, scale, or secure their business
• Has ambition which might not be reflected in their credit score
• Values relationships, versatility, and fast decisions

A Start Up Loan is a government‑backed personal loan of £500–£25,000 designed to help new and early‑stage businesses (up to 5 years trading) access affordable finance at a fixed 7.5% interest rate. It offers unsecured funding with no fees, flexible 1–5 year terms, and includes 12 months of free mentoring to support business growth.

Explore Start Up Loans

A Small Business Loan provides established businesses with flexible funding of up to £250,000 to support working capital needs and larger growth projects.

With competitive rates, quick decisions, and a required personal guarantee, it’s designed to help companies invest in equipment, staff, stock, premises, or expansion plans.

Explore Small Business Loans

A Refinance Loan allows established businesses to restructure short‑term, high‑cost debt into an affordable 5‑year term, freeing up essential monthly cashflow.

With funding up to £250,000, competitive rates, and support from local investment managers, it’s built for businesses that need stability and working capital headroom to grow.

Explore Refinance Loans

NPIF II Smaller Loans provide £25,000 to £100,000 of flexible growth finance for businesses across Yorkshire and the Humber who need support to scale or fill a funding gap.

Backed by the British Business Bank, these loans are designed to help SMEs invest in development, expansion, and new opportunities when traditional finance isn’t available.

NPIF II Smaller Loans

We fund SMEs of all shapes and sizes from pre-starts and start-ups to established firms with years of trading. If a business has a strong case and a plan for the future, we’ll consider it.

No. We work across all sectors, from retail and hospitality to manufacturing and professional services. We’re open to cases that mainstream lenders often dismiss as too niche or complex.

We provide loans from £500 up to £250,000. That includes Start Up Loans of up to £25,000 and Small Business Loans of up to £250,000, with refinance options available within that range.

Yes. Every case is assessed by a BEF Investment Manager, not a faceless algorithm. You’ll always have direct access to the person making the call.

Yes. From your first enquiry through to payout, you’ll work with one dedicated Investment Manager who knows your cases and your clients.

We keep it clear, respectful, and jargon-free. Your clients are treated with the same care you’d want for your own reputation, transparent updates and no surprises.

We’re a not-for-profit lender with a mission to back businesses that others overlook. Unlike banks or fintechs, we prioritise relationships over algorithms, flexibility over rigid rules, and speed without cutting corners.