
Top Cash Flow Loan Lenders for UK Businesses
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 connects borrowers with a variety of unsecured and secured options, suitable for those needing quick access or specific collateral. The broker provides flexible solutions tailored to business needs. 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. Funding Circle
Funding Circle Funding Circle is a digital platform connecting small businesses with investors. It specialises in fast SME loans, mainly secured on business assets or cash flow. The platform offers flexible terms suited to different borrowing needs. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £750,000
- Min APR: 6.9%
- Max APR: 12%
- Loan Duration: up to 72 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loan
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Fixed competitive rates
- Fast decision process
Cons
- Higher rates for riskier borrowers
Sources: https://www.fundingcircle.co.uk/
3. iwoca
iwoca iwoca provides short-term business finance, offering quick access to funds with a range of repayment options. It supports SMEs with flexible and fast funding, often secured on cash flow or assets. The platform caters to businesses needing rapid response times. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 1.5%
- Max APR: 40%
- Loan Duration: 1 to 24 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loan, Credit Line
- Industries: Retail, Hospitality
Pros
- Fast funding
- Flexible requirements
Cons
- High APR for some products
Sources: https://www.iwoca.co.uk/
4. Novuna
Novuna Novuna offers business cash flow loans and alternative financing options, often secured on business assets or cash flow. It provides rapid access with flexible repayment terms, suitable for various business needs. The platform focuses on quick approval and straightforward processes. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. 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: Unsecured Loan
- Industries: Various
Pros
- No collateral required
- Fast processing
Cons
- Limited loan accessibility
Sources: https://www.novuna.co.uk/business-finance/
5. 365 Finance
365 Finance 365 Finance provides revenue-based funding options that are often unsecured and involve revenue sharing. It offers quick access to capital without traditional fixed loans. The service is designed for businesses seeking flexible repayment tied to sales. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Flexible⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Revenue-Based Finance, Merchant Cash Advance
- Industries: Retail
Pros
- No fixed fees
- High approval rate
Cons
- Variable cost dependent on sales
Sources: https://www.365finance.co.uk/business-cash-flow-loans/
6. Fleximize
Fleximize Fleximize offers customised business loans with flexible repayment options and fast approval. It supports SMEs needing working capital or growth funding. It provides clear, tailored solutions with quick decision times. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 10.8%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 12 to 60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Flexible Loan
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Tailored packages
- Loyalty rewards
Cons
- Personal guarantee required
Sources: https://www.fleximize.co.uk/
7. Clifton Private Finance
Clifton Private Finance offers customised funding solutions, focusing on personalised service and competitive rates. It facilitates secured and unsecured business loans of various sizes, often requiring collateral for secured options. The provider aims to match tailored financing to business needs. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £50,000
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 7%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 3 to 6 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Loan
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Bespoke solutions
- Competitive rates
Cons
- Secured loans require collateral
Sources: https://www.cliftonpf.co.uk/business-loans/
8. Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Bank Lloyds Bank provides business loans with fixed rates, often secured on assets or cash flow. It offers options suitable for businesses prioritising predictable expenses. The provider supports a variety of borrowing needs with straightforward application processes. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 11.2%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loan
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Fixed rates
- Well-known provider
Cons
- Relatively high APR
Sources: https://lloydstsb.co.uk/business/business-loans.html
9. YouLend
YouLend YouLend offers revenue-based finance solutions that are flexible and scalable for growing UK businesses. It provides quick online access, often tied to sales performance or revenue sharing models. The platform supports businesses looking for adaptable funding options. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Flexible⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Revenue-Based Finance
- Industries: Various
Pros
- High approval rate
- Aligned with sales
Cons
- Higher cost of capital
Sources: http://www.youlend.co.uk/
10. Liberis
Liberis Liberis offers flexible funding options that often include revenue sharing models, suitable for small businesses seeking quick access without traditional collateral. It provides transparent and scalable finance solutions, often unsecured. The platform aims to support businesses with evolving cash flow needs. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. 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: Various
Pros
- No APR
- Simple fee structure
Cons
- Dependent on sales volumes
Sources: https://www.liberis.co.uk/
How to choose
When selecting a top cash flow loan lender for UK businesses, consider your specific funding needs. Bank loans often provide lower rates for secured borrowing, while brokers offer a wider range of unsecured or collateralised options. Specialist providers may focus on revenue sharing or flexible terms. Evaluate factors such as repayment flexibility, speed of access, and collateral requirements. Comparing lender criteria and fee structures can help identify the best fit for your business. Make sure to review early repayment terms and eligibility requirements to choose the most suitable option.
Conclusion
Matching the right provider depends on your specific financing needs. Bank lenders tend to offer straightforward, lower-cost options for secured funding. Brokers and digital platforms can give quick access to a variety of unsecured or specialised solutions. Sector-specific or revenue-sharing providers may be suitable for unique cash flow models. Always compare current costs and terms with the lender before applying. Visit Funding Agent for a strong starting point. Accurate matching helps ensure suitable and cost-effective funding for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cash flow loan for UK businesses?
A cash flow loan is a short-term business loan designed to help UK businesses manage their day-to-day expenses by providing quick access to funds based on their cash flow.
What are the typical eligibility requirements for cash flow loans?
Eligibility usually requires a UK-based business, a minimum trading history of 6 to 12 months, a steady cash flow, and proof of ability to repay the loan.
What are the common interest rates and fees for cash flow loans in the UK?
Interest rates vary but typically range from 4% to 15% APR. Additional fees may include arrangement fees, early repayment fees, and late payment penalties.
Who are the top cash flow loan lenders in the UK?
Top cash flow loan lenders in the UK include Barclays, HSBC, Funding Circle, MarketFinance, and iwoca, known for offering flexible loan options to suit business needs.
How quickly can I get a cash flow loan for my business?
Many lenders offer fast approval and funding, with some providing loans within 24 to 72 hours depending on the application and verification process.
Can cash flow loans be used for any business purpose?
Cash flow loans are generally flexible and can be used for various business needs, such as managing payroll, buying inventory, or covering unexpected expenses.

