Before you apply
Business finance is not one single programme. Borrowing requires a repayment plan; grants are subject to separate conditions and are not interchangeable with loans. For any proposed debt, explain the commercial purpose, demonstrate cash resilience and check all obligations to other lenders.
Preparation checklist
One-page description of the business, management, requested amount and proposed use of the funds.
Latest accounts or trading records where available; clearly identify what is historical and what is forecast.
Monthly cash-flow forecast showing debt servicing, seasonal swings and a conservative lower-sales scenario.
Information on existing facilities, security, directors’ responsibilities and any personal guarantees requested by a particular lender.
A comparison of financing routes: term loan, overdraft, asset finance or equity, with cost, flexibility and ownership implications.
Find verified UK support programmes
- GOV.UK maintains a searchable directory of finance and support schemes, with filters for loans, grants, company stage and region.
- Check programme rules and applications at their official destination, not third-party advertisements. Availability can differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- Compare total repayment, arrangement fees, interest variability and security before agreeing to a loan.
Questions to clarify before applying
- Do programme geography, trading age and business size make this business eligible?
- What evidence is necessary for a startup versus an established company?
- What happens to repayments if sales fall or a major customer pays late?
- Are personal guarantees or additional collateral requested, and what could they mean?
Official UK resources
Verify the latest terms and rules directly with the institution.
- GOV.UK — Finance and support for your business ↗
Official searchable directory of schemes and support.
- GOV.UK — Business support ↗
Public-sector information and business finance routes.