
Best Ecommerce Business Loan Lenders 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 2025-12-11.
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 facilitates quick comparisons of loan options and is suitable for businesses seeking straightforward financing. 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. iwoca
iwoca iwoca provides flexible funding solutions to UK SMEs, focusing on rapid decisions and adaptable repayment plans. It is suitable for businesses needing quick access to working capital or short-term finance. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 24 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Working Capital Loan, Invoice Discounting
- Industries: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare
Pros
- No early repayment fees
- Quick decisions
Cons
- High APR for some users
Sources: https://www.iwoca.co.uk/business-loan-calculator
3. Cubefunder
Cubefunder Cubefunder offers quick access to funding options designed for small UK businesses. It provides flexible terms and fast decisions, suitable for short-term working capital or growth needs. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 10.39%
- Max APR: 14.39%
- Loan Duration: 3 to 12 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Short Term Loan, Seasonal Loan
- Industries: Retail, Services
Pros
- Flexible terms
- Tailored repayments
Cons
- Limited loan amounts
Sources: https://www.cubefunder.com
4. Novuna
Novuna Novuna provides tailored financial products suitable for various sectors, including asset finance and invoice funding. It is often used for business growth or restructuring, with flexible options based on security and credit profile. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £100,000
- Max Amount: £5,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Asset Finance, Invoice Finance
- Industries: Construction, Retail, Commercial
Pros
- Wide range of financing options
- Quick funds release
Cons
- Requires credit assessment
Sources: https://www.novuna.co.uk/business-cash-flow/industry-hub-and-resources/
5. FundOnion
FundOnion FundOnion connects SMEs with multiple lenders offering various types of business loans. It provides an online comparison platform suitable for firms wanting quick access to funding options. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £350,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured Loan, Revenue Based Finance
- Industries: General Business, Technology, Services
Pros
- Comparison of multiple lenders
- Fast application process
Cons
- Platform fees may apply
Sources: https://www.fundonion.com
6. SME Loans
SME Loans SME Loans offers funding options for UK small and medium enterprises, including short-term and longer-term solutions. It caters to firms seeking flexible financing with varied security types. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 6 to 60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loans, Asset Finance
- Industries: Technology, Healthcare, Retail
Pros
- Broad funding range
- Supports various industries
Cons
- APR not specified
Sources: https://www.smeloans.co.uk
7. Clifton Private Finance
Clifton Private Finance Clifton Private Finance offers specialised funding options including bridging and property finance. It is suitable for borrowers seeking flexible secured lending and expert advice for property-related projects. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Bridging Loans, Property Finance
- Industries: Ecommerce, Property
Pros
- Customized solutions
- Industry experts
Cons
- Complex application process
Sources: https://www.cliftonpf.co.uk/blog/18072024102955-ecommerce-finance/
8. Merchant Savvy
Merchant Savvy Merchant Savvy provides expert insights into merchant financing options including cash advances and alternative funding in the UK. It is geared towards businesses needing detailed comparison tools for flexible payment methods. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Merchant Cash Advance
- Industries: Retail, Ecommerce
Pros
- Comprehensive comparison
- Updated insights
Cons
- Not a direct lender
Sources: https://www.merchantsavvy.co.uk/business-finance/merchant-cash-advance/
9. Simply Business
Simply Business Simply Business offers specialised insurance and financial solutions, including loans and business insurance, to UK small businesses. It suits enterprises seeking tailored, flexible coverage and quick funding options. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Insurance, Financial Services
- Industries: Ecommerce, Small Business
Pros
- Specialized services
- Wide coverage
Cons
- Focus on insurance more than loans
Sources: https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/knowledge/funding/best-small-business-loans/
10. Funding Circle
Funding Circle Funding Circle is a peer-to-peer lending platform that offers efficient, transparent loans to UK businesses. It connects borrowers directly with investors and is suitable for those seeking flexible, scalable financing. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 4.9%
- Max APR: 27.8%
- Loan Duration: 6 to 60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Peer-to-Peer Loans
- Industries: Various, Ecommerce
Pros
- Competitive rates
- Easy online application
Cons
- Strict criteria
Sources: https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/fundingcircle.com
How to choose
When selecting a lender for your ecommerce business in the UK, consider the type of loan and its purpose. Bank lenders generally offer secured business loans with lower rates but longer approval times. Alternative lenders and brokers provide quicker access and more flexible options, often with higher interest rates. Evaluate the repayment terms, fees, and eligibility criteria carefully. Matching the right provider to your needs will improve your chances of securing suitable financing efficiently. Compare offers based on speed, security, and cost to find the best fit for your ecommerce growth.
Conclusion
Matching the right provider depends on your business needs. Banks are suitable for larger, secured loans requiring longer approval times. Brokers and specialist lenders often offer quicker decisions and flexible terms for smaller or unsecured funding. Funding agents facilitate comparisons across multiple options and can help identify suitable products quickly. Always review current costs and terms directly with the lender or broker to ensure accuracy and fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of loans are available for ecommerce businesses in the UK?
Ecommerce businesses in the UK can access various loans including term loans, business overdrafts, invoice financing, and merchant cash advances.
Which lenders offer the best ecommerce loans in the UK?
Popular lenders include high street banks, online lenders like Funding Circle, iwoca, and specialist ecommerce finance providers.
What are the typical interest rates for ecommerce business loans in the UK?
Interest rates can range from 3% to over 15%, depending on the lender, loan type, and your creditworthiness.
How can I qualify for an ecommerce business loan in the UK?
To qualify, you generally need a good credit score, a solid business plan, proof of consistent revenue, and in some cases, collateral.
How much can I borrow for my ecommerce business?
Loan amounts vary widely but typically range from £5,000 up to £500,000, depending on the lender and your business’s financial health.
How long does it take to get an ecommerce business loan approved?
Approval times vary, but online lenders can often approve loans within 24-48 hours, while traditional banks may take several weeks.

