What is business finance and why it matters now

Business finance covers the range of borrowing and funding solutions companies use to grow, manage cash flow, replace assets or invest in new projects. In today’s market many businesses face tighter margins, supply chain challenges and rising costs — all of which increase demand for flexible and timely funding.

Common use cases include managing seasonal cash flow, purchasing equipment, refinancing existing borrowing, funding property purchases or fit-outs, and investing in energy efficiency projects. Choosing the right product and lender matters because the correct match reduces cost, speeds access to cash and lowers the risk of inappropriate borrowing.

How Fast Business Loans streamlines your business finance search

We act as a quick route to market for businesses seeking finance. You tell us your requirements, and we introduce you to lenders or brokers who can help — saving you time and unnecessary applications.

Step 1 – Share your requirements (short enquiry)

Complete a concise enquiry form (usually under two minutes). We ask for basic business details, the funding amount you need (we handle requests from £10,000 upwards), your sector and contact information. Your details are treated securely and only shared with partner lenders or brokers who match your request.

Step 2 – Intelligent matching with relevant partners

We use your information to select suitable lenders and brokers from our panel. Matching focuses on product fit and sector experience so you’re connected to providers who understand your business quickly. We do not provide a single recommendation — introductions are made so you can compare options.

Step 3 – Compare quotes and decide with confidence

After introductions, brokers or lenders contact you to discuss terms and request supporting documents. You receive quotes and can choose the option that best fits your goals. There’s no obligation to accept any offer; the decision is yours.

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Types of business finance our partners provide

Below are common finance types available through our broker and lender partners. These are examples only — actual products, amounts and terms depend on lender assessment.

Unsecured and secured business loans

Flexible term loans for general purposes. Unsecured loans are based on cashflow and credit; secured loans use business assets or property as security. Typical amounts: £10,000 to several million. Subject to lender assessment.

Working capital & cashflow support

Short-term facilities to cover payroll, stock or seasonal peaks. Includes overdrafts, revolving facilities and short-term loans. Useful for smoothing revenue volatility. Subject to eligibility checks.

Asset & equipment finance

Hire purchase and leasing to spread the cost of machinery, vehicles, IT or catering equipment. Preserves cash and can include maintenance options. Loan sizes vary by asset value.

Invoice finance and factoring

Unlock cash tied up in unpaid invoices. Options include invoice discounting and factoring — useful where long payment terms strain liquidity. Advance rates and fees vary by provider.

Commercial mortgages & property finance

Longer-term finance for property purchases, refinancing or development finance. Lenders look at rental income, valuation and business cashflow.

Specialist finance (fit-out, sustainability, vehicle, sector-specific)

Tailored packages for shop/office fit-outs, green energy projects (solar/PV, EV chargers), vehicle fleets and other specialist needs. Often arranged by brokers who specialise in these niches.

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Which UK industries we support

Our panel serves a wide range of sectors; brokers and lenders often specialise in particular industries. Common sectors include:

• Construction, trades and building services
• Hospitality, restaurants and pubs
• Healthcare and care providers
• Manufacturing and engineering
• Logistics, transport and fleet operators
• Retail and e-commerce
• Agriculture and food production
• Professional services and accountancy firms
• Franchises and multi-site businesses

If you work in a niche sector, tell us in your enquiry so we can match you with partners who understand the specific risks and opportunities of your industry.

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Business finance eligibility — what lenders usually consider

Lenders and brokers typically assess similar factors when evaluating an application. Common criteria include:

• Trading history and company structure
• Turnover and profitability
• Bank statements and cashflow
• Credit history (company and director records)
• Security or collateral where required
• Purpose of the finance and supporting contracts or forecasts

Some specialist partners can consider applications from firms with adverse credit or short trading histories, but terms and availability vary. All funding is subject to lender assessment and approval.

Please note: Fast Business Loans does not provide financial advice. We introduce you to lenders and brokers who will assess suitability for your circumstances.

The benefits of using Fast Business Loans

• No cost to enquire: submitting an enquiry is free and without obligation.
• Time saved: we shortlist providers who match your needs so you avoid applying to unsuitable lenders.
• Sector knowledge: access to brokers and lenders experienced in your industry.
• Secure handling of your data: we only share details with relevant partners.
• Choice: receive multiple approaches or quotes to compare.
• Loan sizes: partners typically arrange finance from £10,000 upwards.

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What to expect after you submit an enquiry

Once you submit the enquiry form a member of our panel may contact you by phone or email. Typical next steps:

1. Initial call or email to clarify details and confirm documentation needed.
2. Broker or lender performs a more detailed assessment and may request accounts, bank statements or management forecasts.
3. Quotes and terms are provided for you to review and compare.
4. With your consent, lenders may carry out credit searches before formal offers.

Response times vary, but many partners respond within hours during business days. Being ready with documents speeds the process.

Responsible business finance: our commitment

We are committed to clear, fair and non‑misleading communications. Fast Business Loans is an introducer — we do not lend or advise. When you’re connected with a broker or lender they will explain all fees, costs and terms. Always check affordability and read lender terms carefully.

Case snapshots: realistic business finance scenarios

Construction firm — bridging a cashflow gap

A regional contractor needed £120,000 to cover materials on a series of projects. We introduced them to a broker specialising in construction cashflow. The broker arranged an invoice finance facility which released working capital within days, helping the business complete contracts without delay. Outcomes vary by case and are subject to lender assessment.

Hospitality group — funding a refurbishment

An independent pub group sought £250,000 for a major refit across sites. After an enquiry they were connected to a lender offering asset-backed finance and a short-term bridging facility while planning permission was finalised. Multiple quotations allowed the owner to choose the most cost‑effective structure.

Manufacturer — replacing ageing machinery

A SME manufacturer needed £85,000 for new CNC equipment. Asset finance was arranged with staged payments and an option to purchase at term-end, preserving cash and spreading cost over useful life.

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Guidance: preparing for a business finance application

Having clear and accurate documents helps speed decisions. Typical checklist:

• Latest company accounts and management accounts
• Recent business bank statements (3–6 months)
• Cashflow forecast or business plan for the use of funds
• Details of major contracts or purchase orders
• Information on security available (assets, property) if relevant
• Director details and any personal credit issues to declare

Being prepared reduces delays when a broker or lender contacts you.

FAQs: business finance with Fast Business Loans

Are you a lender?

No — Fast Business Loans introduces businesses to lenders and brokers. We do not provide loans or bespoke financial advice.

Does the enquiry cost anything?

No. Submitting an enquiry is free and without obligation. Any fees or charges would be disclosed by the broker or lender before you accept an offer.

What loan amounts are available?

Our partners typically arrange finance from £10,000 and upwards. Exact availability depends on lender criteria and the purpose of the funding.

How fast can I receive funds?

Timelines vary by product and documentation. Some short-term loans or invoice finance can release funds within days; larger or secured facilities may take several weeks.

Will this affect my credit score?

Submitting an enquiry with Fast Business Loans does not affect your credit score. Lenders or brokers may perform credit checks with your consent when you proceed.

Can you help if I’ve been declined elsewhere?

Possibly. Because we work with a broad panel, specialist partners may consider cases others declined. Outcomes are not guaranteed and depend on the lender’s criteria.

Ready to explore business finance options?

If your company needs funding from £10,000 upwards, tell us a few details and we’ll connect you with lenders and brokers who may be able to help. There’s no obligation and the enquiry is free.

Get Started — Free Eligibility Check

For more information on the kinds of business finance available, see our detailed guide to business finance.