How to Get Business Funding UK (2026)
Quick Answer
The most accessible way to get business funding in the UK is through Merchant Cash Advance (MCA). Perfect for growth: stock expansion, equipment upgrades, or marketing campaigns. £3,000-£1,000,000 available. Credit is checked, but lenders are less strict than banks. Card sales and trading history carry more weight. Subject to lender criteria.
5 Ways to Get Business Funding UK
Merchant Cash Advance
- Amount: £3,000-£1,000,000
- Process: Simple application, decision within 24 hours
- Requirements: 3+ months trading, £3k+/month card sales
- Approval rate: High
- Best for: Retail, hospitality, any card-taking business
Invoice Finance
- Amount: £10,000-£5M
- Speed: 24 hours
- Requirements: B2B business with outstanding invoices
- Best for: Manufacturers, wholesalers, professional services
Bank Term Loan
- Amount: £25,000-£2M
- Speed: 4-8 weeks
- Requirements: 2+ years trading, good credit, often collateral
- Approval rate: 62%
- Best for: Established businesses with perfect credit
Business Overdraft
- Amount: £1,000-£100,000
- Speed: 1-2 weeks
- Best for: Short-term cash flow management
Government Schemes
- Start Up Loans: £500-£25,000
- British Business Bank schemes
- Long application process but favorable rates
Step-by-Step: How to Get Business Funding
Calculate How Much You Need
Be specific. "£30,000 for stock purchase before Christmas" is better than "some working capital."
Use our funding calculatorCheck Your Eligibility
- MCA: Need £3k+/month in card sales
- Invoice Finance: Need £10k+ in outstanding invoices
- Bank Loan: Need 2+ years trading, good credit
Gather Documents
For MCA (minimal requirements):
- 3-12 months bank statements showing card sales
- Director ID (passport/driving license)
- Business registration details
Apply (10 Minutes Online)
Use a funding introducer like us to compare multiple providers with one application. You get a competitive quote and choose the best rate.
Get Decision (24 Hours for MCA)
Providers review your card sales history and typically respond the same business day. Decisions are subject to lender criteria.
Receive Funding (24-48 Hours)
Money transferred directly to your business bank account. Use immediately for whatever your business needs.
Ready to Fuel Your Business Growth?
Get matched with the right funding for your expansion plans
£3k-£1M available • Revenue-based decisions • Flexible repayment options
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most accessible way to get business funding UK?+
Merchant Cash Advance is one of the most accessible alternative funding options. Credit is always checked, but lenders are less strict than banks -- card sales and trading history carry more weight. Requires minimal paperwork (typically bank statements) and often uses soft credit checks initially. Subject to lender criteria.
How much funding can I get?+
Depends on your monthly turnover. MCA: 1-2x monthly card sales (£3k-£1M). Invoice Finance: 80% of outstanding invoices (£10k-£5M). Bank loans: varies by credit and collateral.