• You’ve been trading for 12+ months
• You’re investing in growth (equipment, staff, stock, premises, marketing)
• You want tailored support and flexible terms
• You can provide a personal guarantee

• You're a pre-start or not yet trading (see our Start Up Loan instead)
• You’re looking for short-term personal credit
• You prefer a 100% digital, no-human process

We support growing businesses across the North East:

• All business types welcome: Limited companies, sole traders and partnerships
• Open to every sector: From retail and manufacturing to creative and digital
• Trading 12+ months: Built for businesses ready to take their next step
• More than money: Funding with expert support, not just a loan

Even if you’ve been turned down elsewhere, we may still be able to help.

Typically, we’ll ask for recent accounts, bank statements, forecasts, and Open Banking access. We’ll confirm exactly what’s needed once you start your enquiry.

Open Banking lets us view your financial data securely so we can make quicker, fairer decisions. You choose what to share, and we only see what’s needed for your application.

To grant access, please visit https://connect.consents.online/BEFcommercial.

Yes. We assess every application individually. We focus on your plans for the future, not just your history.

For Limited Companies, all registered Directors will be asked to provide a personal guarantee for the full loan amount. Sole traders and partnerships borrow in their own name and are personally liable.

In some cases, additional security may be requested, such as tangible assets or a debenture. Your Investment Manager will explain what applies to your application and guide you through the process.

Most businesses receive a decision and funding within two weeks, provided documents are submitted on time.

From hiring staff to buying stock, investing in equipment, refurbishing premises, boosting marketing or expanding into new markets, your loan is designed to fuel growth.

Early resettlement fees are covered in Section (4) Repayments of our Terms of Engagement, which you can read right here.