Small Business loans Yorkshire

Flexible finance for businesses in Yorkshire

Yorkshire, once anchored in classic industries such as textiles and manufacturing, is now witnessing a dynamic transformation.

North Yorkshire, once known for its reliance on traditional industries such as agriculture and small-scale manufacturing, is witnessing a remarkable transformation. This shift is evident in its historic cities and quaint towns, including York, Scarborough, Whitby, Filey, Harrogate, Ripon, Northallerton, Skipton, Selby, and Thirsk.

West Yorkshire, home to Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Huddersfield, and Halifax which were once home to a vibrant textile trade is now transitioning in financial services, law, retail, and technology sectors.

Meanwhile, South Yorkshire, historically rooted in industries such as coal mining and steel production, is experiencing rapid change within the new economy. Cities and towns within this area, including Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, and Barnsley, are transforming into dynamic centres for creativity and business innovation.

It's no secret that small businesses and start-ups across Yorkshire find it difficult to access the funding they need to start or grow. Many are unable to meet the strict borrowing requirements of traditional lenders or overcome regional disparities, sector bias, systemic inequalities. At BEF, we see your business differently.

That's where BEF comes in. We help the region's business begin, expand, and flourish with flexible finance. Whatever your needs, we can provide personalised financial solutions up to £250,000 that meet your specific business needs.

What's more, with us, you're not just talking to a computer. From the moment you reach out, you're supported by an experienced Investment Manager who is ready to listen, understand, and help.

What business loans are available?

We provide flexible finance to support different business needs and stages:

• Start Up Loans (up to £25k): Kickstart your start-up business in Yorkshire and The Humber.
• NPIF II Smaller Loans (£25k-100k): For growth and development projects in Yorkshire & The Humber.
• Small Business Loans (up to £250k): For businesses across the North including the North East and the North West.

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.

How can I use a BEF business loan?

You can use our business loans to support a wide range of business activities:

• Start-up costs: Got a new business idea? Use the loan for starting out costs like getting licenses, permits, and buying your initial gear.
• Property stuff: Whether you’re buying a new place for your business, fixing up your current one, or giving it a makeover, there’s cash for that.
• Inventory: Need stuff to sell or materials to make your products? The loan can help buy all that.
• Working capital: This is for the everyday money needs like paying your team, covering bills, and other regular costs.
• Equipment and technology: If you need new machines, tools, or the latest tech to help your business grow, you can use the loan for that.
• Marketing and advertising: Get the word out about your business and attract more customers with some marketing and ads.
• Scaling up: Ready to make your business bigger or go into new areas? There’s money to support that move.

Client testimonial

Amity Brew Co was established in April 2020 by Russ Clarke, Rich Degnan, Tom Matthews and Verity Clarke with help from BEF who provided £75,000 in Start Up Loans. The initial BEF investment enabled the business to open the 25,000 sq ft brewery and taproom at Sunny Bank Mills, Farsley in December 2020. In was followed by a further investment of £40,000 to purchase equipment and provide working capital.

“Purchasing canning and labelling equipment will allow us to get fresh beer into the hands of our customers faster and more efficiently plus expand into trade. It will cut costs and environmental impact and will also allow us to create jobs within the brewery in order to take more on under our own roof.”
- Russ Clarke, owner, Amity Brew Co.”

Why choose BEF?

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:

• Fair rates for Yorkshire: Our interest rates are set to match what's going on in West Yorkshire, 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 Yorkshire: Our loans are built to tackle the challenges businesses face right here, offering real help that makes a difference to local businesses and communities.

How do I get started?

1. Complete our online enquiry form. It takes a minute to complete.
2. A member of our Investment Team will get back to you within two working days. They'll guide you on your next steps, including how to complete a full application.