Borrow up to £250k for a wide range of businesses uses

Get started with your loan
Befund
Befund

Who are BEF north east

At Business Enterprise Fund (BEF), we're committed to supporting the growth and success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the North of England. Our Sunderland office serves as a gateway for businesses in the region to access the flexible finance they need to begin, expand, and flourish.

As a not-for-profit social enterprise, provide accessible and affordable funding to SMEs in the North East to help foster economic growth and job creation across County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland.

Get in touch

What business loans are available

We provide flexible finance to support different business needs and stages. So, no matter your sector, the size of your business or how long you’ve been trading, we have a loan that can be tailored to fit your needs.

Enquire
Start up loan £500 to £25k

If your business is still new and traded for less than 36 months, you can borrow up to £25,000 to help get things moving.


  • A 6% fixed interest rate
  • Flexible repayment 1 to 5 years
  • Up to 4 partners or directors
  • No arrangement fees
  • No early repayment fees
Find out more
Small business loan Upto £250k

If you need more money, there’s an option to borrow up to £250,000. This is for businesses that are a bit bigger and need more cash to grow.


  • Competitive interest rates
  • Flexible repayment 1 to 5 years
  • Get funds within 2-3 weeks
  • Minimal setup fees
  • Minimal early repayment fees
Find out more

Why choose BEF

Fair rates for the North East

Our interest rates are set to match what's going on in the North East, making it easier for businesses to grow without getting weighed down by costs.

Local help from local experts

We have people from the area who know all about the local business environment. They tailor our services to give you spot-on advice and solutions.

Fast loan approval

We get your loan sorted quickly so you can jump on opportunities or sort out problems without delay.

We get the North East

Our loans are built to tackle the challenges businesses face right here, offering real help that makes a difference to local businesses and communities.

We have built our loans to fit your business needs, and to tackle the unique problems you might face in the area. See how our different approach can your business take off.

Befund

Who can i speak to about a loan for my business

No, we are not. Our Investment Managers will work closely with you to understand you and your business objectives and develop a flexible finance plan that aligns with your specific needs.

We pride ourselves on our flexibility and personalised approach, ensuring that you receive the support you need to navigate the funding process and achieve your business aspirations.

Connect with an Investment Manager: Lee Vickers, Senior Investment Manager, Business Loans, LinkedIn. Antony Nicholson, Investment Manager, Business Loans, LinkedIn. Chris McGill, Associate Investment Manager, Start Up Loans. Claire Constable, Associate Investment Manager, Start Up Loans.

Contact us today

BEF North East

If you want to start or grow a business in the North East, then we are here to assist you. Tell us what you need and we will let you know more about your best available options.

Get in touch

Frequently asked questions

Of course, you might have some questions. Here are some of the most common ones we get about our loans for Yorkshire. If you have more questions, feel free to get in touch with us.

Get in touch
How can i use BEF business loan
Are you sponsoring the startup north east awards 2024
Where can i find news about BEF north east
Do BEF offer RLS loans