
Best Revolving Credit Facility Lenders for UK SMEs
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 provides tailored options for franchise buyers seeking quick, straightforward financing with clear terms and flexible structures. 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. Swoop Funding
Swoop Funding Swoop Funding offers a variety of business finance options suitable for different needs. It specialises in quick turnaround and flexible structures for franchise owners or companies needing secured or unsecured funding. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £25,000
- Max Amount: £5,000,000
- Min APR: 3.9%
- Max APR: 12%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 10 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Loan, Unsecured Loan
- Industries: General
Pros
- Wide range of financial products
- Competitive rates
Cons
- Collateral required
Sources: https://www.fundingagent.co.uk/lender-reviews/swoop-funding-reviews
3. Iwoca
Iwoca Iwoca offers flexible credit facilities suitable for small businesses and franchise operators. It provides quick access to working capital or business loans with clear terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: Up to 12 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Line of Credit, Business Loan
- Industries: Retail, Professional Services
Pros
- Fast approval
- Flexible use
Cons
- Higher APR for higher risk profiles
- Short loan durations
Sources: https://www.iwoca.co.uk/finance-explained/business-loan-interest-rates
4. Capalona
Capalona Capalona connects UK SMEs with lenders for business finance options. It offers quick, flexible solutions for franchise owners seeking secured or unsecured funding, often without requiring extensive collateral. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loan, Invoice Finance
- Industries: E-commerce, Technology
Pros
- Easy comparison
- No credit score impact
Cons
- Lack of direct contact with lenders
Sources: https://www.capalona.co.uk
5. Aurora Capital
Aurora Capital Aurora Capital provides quick and flexible funding solutions suitable for SMEs. It offers customised terms for borrowers wanting adaptable, short-to-mid term finance options often secured on assets or income streams. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £2,000,000
- Min APR: 8.9%
- Max APR: 12%
- Loan Duration: 1 month to 6 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Business Loan, Commercial Loan
- Industries: Healthcare, Property
Pros
- Quick approval
- Customizable terms
Cons
- Original fee charges
Sources: https://auroracapital.co.uk/how-much-will-it-cost-to-get-a-business-loan
6. Fleximize
Fleximize Fleximize offers flexible business finance options including revolving credit and term loans. It specialises in quick decisions for growing SMEs needing adaptable funding and transparent terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 9.6%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 36 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Revolving Credit, Term Loan
- Industries: Retail, Manufacturing
Pros
- No hidden fees
- Exclusive Reward Program
Cons
- Requires personal guarantee
Sources: https://www.fleximize.co.uk
7. Time Finance
Time Finance Time Finance delivers customised solutions including asset finance and loans for businesses. It offers flexible options suitable for SMEs and franchise operators looking for quick approvals and structured repayment plans. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 11.5%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 3 months to 5 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Asset Finance, Term Loan
- Industries: Construction, Transportation
Pros
- Tailored financial solutions
- Expert support
Cons
- Higher fees for larger loans
Sources: https://www.fundingagent.co.uk/post/novuna-business-finance-vs-time-finance
8. Bibby Financial Services
Bibby Financial Services Bibby Financial Services provides invoice finance and asset-based lending solutions for cash flow management and growth. It offers options that are suitable for SMEs in need of flexible funding with straightforward access. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 36.8%
- Loan Duration: 12 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Invoice Finance, Asset-Based Lending
- Industries: Manufacturing, Logistics
Pros
- Flexible financing
- Wide acceptance criteria
Cons
- Higher rates for new companies
Sources: http://bibbyfinancialservices.co.uk
9. Aldermore
Aldermore Aldermore offers financial solutions including business loans and asset finance tailored for UK SMEs. It provides options for varied funding needs and typically involves secured lending with flexible repayment options. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £25,000
- Max Amount: £2,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 3 months to 5 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loan, Commercial Mortgage
- Industries: Real Estate, Retail
Pros
- Competitive interest rates
- Comprehensive support
Cons
- Limited to UK-based assets
Sources: https://www.aldermore.co.uk/business-finance/
10. Paragon Bank
Paragon Bank Paragon Bank offers specialised asset finance and commercial loans. It typically serves businesses seeking customised funding options often secured on assets or income streams. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000,000
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Up to 15 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Asset Finance, Commercial Loan
- Industries: SMEs, Real Estate
Pros
- Seasonal payment options
- Specialized sector focus
Cons
- High minimum loan amount
Sources: https://www.paragonbank.co.uk/asset-finance/finance-options
How to choose
When selecting among the top 10 revolving credit facility lenders for UK SMEs, consider your specific needs and the lender type. Bank lenders often provide straightforward, secured loans suitable for large or ongoing projects. Brokered options can offer more tailored, flexible solutions for diverse or complex requirements. Specialised lenders may focus on niche sectors or fast approvals. Evaluate interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria to find the best fit for your franchise business. Clear understanding of costs and the application process will aid in making an informed decision.
Conclusion
Matching the right lender to your needs depends on your project size, security requirements, and sector. Banks tend to offer stability for secured loans, while brokers provide broader access to varied options. Specialist lenders often focus on specific industries or quick turnaround. Always confirm current costs and terms with the lender; pricing may change. 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 revolving credit facility?
A revolving credit facility is a flexible loan option that allows businesses to borrow, repay and borrow again up to an agreed limit.
What are the eligibility criteria for revolving credit facilities?
Lenders typically require a good credit score, stable business income, and sometimes a minimum trading period.
How quickly can SMEs access funds from revolving credit lenders?
Many lenders offer quick approval processes with funds available within a few days.
How can a revolving credit facility help UK SMEs?
It offers SMEs quick access to funds for managing cash flow, purchasing inventory, or handling unexpected expenses.
What are the interest rates like for these credit facilities?
Interest rates vary depending on the lender and business profile but are usually competitive and based on the amount borrowed.
Can SMEs increase their credit limit on a revolving credit facility?
Yes, businesses can often request a limit increase as they demonstrate good repayment behaviour and business growth.

