Start Up Loan

Funding built for your first 3 years in business

£11500
5year(s)
£
£

Get £500–£25k to launch or grow.

Start your application
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Funding with real support

If you’ve got the idea but not the track record, assets or perfect credit score, a Start Up Loan is designed to break down those barriers, helping you launch or grow with confidence.

Overview

A Start Up Loan offers £500–£25k (up to £100k across four founders) to help businesses under three years old launch or grow with government-backed support.

We’re a trusted Delivery Partner for the government-backed Start Up Loans scheme, managed by the British Business Bank.

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Start Up Loan £500 - £25k

For pre-starts and start-ups

  • For businesses trading up to 3 years
  • Average loan size: £11.5k
  • 6% fixed interest, repay over 1–5 years
  • No setup or early repayment fees
  • No security or guarantors required
  • 12 months free business mentoring
  • Funds typically in 3–8 weeks
  • Credit check required
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Is a Start Up Loan right for me?

If you’ve been trading under three years, this could be your chance to bring your business to life with the funding and support to get started.

Yes, start your application
A Start Up Loan could be right if:
Not right if:
Am I eligible for a Start Up Loan?

Why choose a Start Up Loan from BEF

Proven track record

We've helped thousands of founders turn ideas into thriving businesses.

Local, personal support

You’ll get one-to-one guidance from our team who understand the challenges of starting out.

Fair and flexible terms

Repay over 1–5 years with no setup fees, no hidden charges and no guarantors required.

Not-for-profit mission

very repayment helps us back more entrepreneurs, so your success supports others too.

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Trusted by founders across the North

See how our Start Up Loans have helped businesses like yours take the next step.

    "As a first-time entrepreneur, starting my own business was intimidating, but the BEF team helped with the whole process, giving me the confidence to push forward."

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    Danelaw Coffee

    "This investment from BEF is a game changer for us."

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    Mamma Social Co

    “They clearly understood our vision and the entire process was straightforward, taking the stress out of launching a brand new business.”

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    The Spine Guy

    “The Start-Up Loan from BEF has been transformative. This support is not just financial; it's a vote of confidence in our mission."

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    Xtra9ce Wigs and Hair Pieces

    How to apply

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    1. Apply online

    Complete a short form and credit check.

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    2. Get support

    Our team helps you gather your info.

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    3. Refine your plan

    One-to-one with a Business Advisor.

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    4. Get your decision

    Receive funding + 12 months mentoring

    Let’s get your business moving. It only takes a few minutes to get started.

    I want to apply

    Got questions? We’ve got answers.

    Everything you need to know to apply with confidence, and if you don’t see your answer here, our team’s just a message away.

    Still unsure? Talk to us
    Is a credit check part of the application process?
    Can I apply if I have a poor credit history?
    Do I need to offer security or a guarantor?
    Is support included?
    What can I use a Start Up Loan for?
    How can I prepare before applying
    Where can I learn more about running a start-up business?

    Start your application

    Start Up Loans are backed by the British Business Bank. Complete the short form below and you’ll be directed to their secure site to finish your application.

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    Loan example (representative APR)

    You can apply for a Start Up Loan of up to £25,000.

    For a Start Up Loan of £11,500 loan repayable over 5 years:

    • 60 monthly payments of £212.66
    • Interest rate: 6% fixed per annum
    • Total amount of credit: £11,500
    • Total interest payable: £1,839.63 (total cost of credit)
    • Total amount repayable: £13,339.63

    Your actual loan terms may vary depending on your circumstances.

    If you're not eligible for a Start Up Loan, we may be able to offer an alternative loan. Rates and terms will vary. Further information, and terms and conditions are available on request.

    Important legal information

    The Start Up Loans Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of British Business Bank plc. It is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, registration number 08117656, registered office at 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, England, WC2H 9JQ.

    British Business Bank plc is a development bank wholly owned by HM Government. British Business Bank plc and its subsidiaries are not banking institutions and do not operate as such. They are not authorised or regulated by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

    A complete legal structure chart for the group can be found at www.british-business-bank.co.uk.