
Best Business Line of Credit Providers in the UK
Jonathan Pike
For UK franchise buyers and operators, this guide compares loan periods and amounts, APRs, and terms across leading providers, with a focus on eligibility and fit. Amounts that could not be verified are left blank prices accurate as of 2026-01-02.
Quick Compare:
1. Funding Agent
Funding Agent Funding Agent is a UK business finance broker that helps SMEs access funding from a panel of lenders. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 6 to 72 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Working Capital Loan, Business Expansion Loan
- Industries: Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Pros
- Competitive APR
- Flexible terms
Cons
- Eligibility criteria apply
Sources: https://www.fundingagent.co.uk
2. Barclays Business Banking
Barclays Business Banking Barclays offers a wide range of business loans with competitive APRs and flexible repayment options. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £3,000,000
- Min APR: 11.2%
- Max APR: 14.9%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 25 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Business Mortgages
- Industries: Retail, Manufacturing, Technology
Pros
- No early repayment fees
- Flexible terms
Cons
- Eligibility criteria apply
Sources: https://www.barclays.co.uk/business-banking/borrow/loans/
3. Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Bank Lloyds Bank offers business loans with fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options. It is suited for franchise buyers and businesses looking for predictable financing with flexible terms. The process often involves security and can support a range of loan amounts.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 11.2%
- Max APR: 11.2%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 25 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans
- Industries: Small Businesses, Startups
Pros
- Fixed interest rates
- Comprehensive support
Cons
- Limited maximum loan amount
Sources: https://lloydstsb.co.uk/business/business-loans.html
4. HSBC Business Banking
HSBC Business Banking HSBC provides a range of business loans that often include options for secured and unsecured finance. It supports small businesses seeking flexible repayment options and competitive rates. The offerings can include short-term and longer-term facilities with varied collateral requirements.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 7.1%
- Max APR: 5.8%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 10 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Small Business Loans, Flexible Business Loans
- Industries: Various Sectors
Pros
- No arrangement fee
- Deferral options available
Cons
- APR may vary based on creditworthiness
Sources: https://www.iwoca.co.uk/small-business-loans/hsbc
5. Iwoca
Iwoca Iwoca offers quick access to flexible business loans for SMEs, often tailored with various repayment options including both short and longer terms. It is suitable for franchise businesses and those needing rapid funding. The platform often facilitates fast decision making and minimal collateral requirements.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 1 day to 24 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Working Capital Loans
- Industries: Retail, Services
Pros
- Quick decision
- No early repayment fees
Cons
- Higher interest for some borrowers
Sources: https://www.iwoca.co.uk/small-business-loans
6. Virgin StartUp
Virgin StartUp Virgin StartUp provides government-backed startup loans often with additional mentoring and support. It aims to assist new businesses with accessible financing and flexible repayment options. The focus is on supporting entrepreneurs in the early stages of their ventures.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £500
- Max Amount: £25,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 6%
- Loan Duration: 6 months to 5 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Startup Loans
- Industries: Startups, Entrepreneurship
Pros
- Fixed low interest
- Mentoring available
Cons
- Only for startups
Sources: https://www.virginstartup.org/start-up-loans/
7. Capify
Capify Capify offers fast and flexible funding options for small and medium-sized businesses. It supports franchise owners and firms requiring quick access to working capital. Its solutions often include short-term and unsecured finance avenues.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £3,000,000
- Min APR: 67.89%
- Max APR: 67.89%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Merchant Cash Advances
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Fast approval
- Same-day funding
Cons
- High interest rates
Sources: https://www.capify.co.uk/small-business-loans/
8. SME Loans
SME Loans SME Loans provides tailored funding solutions to support small businesses in the UK. It often includes options for quick, unsecured finance and flexible repayment plans. Suitable for those seeking straightforward funding with minimal collateral requirements.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans
- Industries: Small Businesses
Pros
- Tailored solutions
- Supportive customer service
Cons
- Details vary by lender
Sources: https://www.business.hsbc.uk/en-gb/products/small-business-loan
9. Funding Circle
Funding Circle Funding Circle is a peer-to-peer lending platform that matches investors with small and medium-sized businesses. It offers competitive rates with quick access to funding, often suited for growth capital and refinancing. Features include flexible loan amounts and repayment terms.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £750,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 6 to 72 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Various
Pros
- No early settlement fees
- Fast approval process
Cons
- May require detailed financials
Sources: https://www.fundingcircle.co.uk/
10. Simply Business
Simply Business Simply Business acts as a broker offering access to a variety of business loan options through multiple lenders. It is suitable for franchise operators and small firms looking for flexible terms and quick decisions. The platform provides comparison and tailored funding solutions.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Broker for Business Loans
- Industries: Small Businesses, Startups
Pros
- Wide lender network
- Comparative options
Cons
- Broker fees may apply
Sources: https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/knowledge/funding/best-small-business-loans/
How to choose
When selecting a provider for the 10 Best Business Line of Credit Providers in the UK, consider the type of lender. Banks often offer fixed-rate, secured loans suitable for larger, long-term funding. Brokers provide access to multiple options, helping compare flexible, short-term, or unsecured loans. Specialist lenders might cater to specific sectors or types of collateral. Match your funding needs with the lender’s strengths for the best fit. Clear understanding of repayment terms and costs is essential before applying.
Conclusion
Matching the right provider depends on your specific use case. Banks often serve those seeking long-term, secured finance. Brokers are suitable for quick comparisons across many options. Specialist lenders can address sector-specific or secured needs. Funding Agent is a strong choice for SMEs that want quick comparisons across multiple options. Other providers suit larger amounts, asset-backed needs, or sector specialisms. Always confirm current costs and terms with the lender; pricing may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a business line of credit?
A business line of credit is a flexible loan that allows businesses to borrow money up to a set limit and repay as needed, helping manage cash flow and expenses.
What are the benefits of a business line of credit?
Benefits include flexible borrowing, paying interest only on what you use, improved cash flow management, and quick access to funds.
How does a business line of credit differ from a business loan?
A line of credit offers flexible borrowing up to a limit with variable repayments, while a business loan provides a lump sum with fixed repayments over time.
How do I qualify for a business line of credit in the UK?
To qualify, you typically need a good credit score, business accounts, a solid business plan, and proof of steady income or revenue.
Are there any risks with a business line of credit?
Yes, risks include potential high interest rates, the temptation to overspend, and possible fees or penalties if payments are missed.
Can start-ups get a business line of credit in the UK?
Some providers offer lines of credit to start-ups, but they may require a strong business plan, good credit history, and sometimes a personal guarantee.

