Start or grow your small business

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We empower small businesses to transform communities through innovation and growth.

Our dedication to fostering growth and innovation is reflected in the impressive impact we have achieved

£ 86m

Added to the regions economy in the last 12 months.

4,470

UK jobs created or safeguarded in the last 12 months.

£ 21.5m

Of client investment in the last 12 months.

599

New UK businesses created in the last 12 months

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Empowering small businesses across England & Wales

Small businesses across England and Wales use flexible finance from BEF to start up, scale up and thrive. Empowered small businesses lead to empowered communities. 

Small businesses account for three-fifths of the employment and around half of turnover in the UK private sector. That's why we champion small businesses.

About us

Power up your small business with flexible financing options

Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, we offer a range of finance products tailored to meet your needs.

Our solutions are designed to boost cash flow, purchase stock, invest in new equipment, expand your team, or manage unexpected expenses.

See our loans
Start Up Loan £500 to £25k

Perfect for new entrepreneurs, our Start Up Loans provide the funding you need to turn your business idea into reality.


  • A 6% fixed interest rate
  • Flexible repayment 1 to 5 years
  • Up to 4 partners or directors
  • No arrangement fees
  • No early repayment fees
Learn more
Small Business Loan Upto £250k

Designed for established businesses, these loans help manage cash flow, expand operations, or invest in growth opportunities.


  • Competitive interest rates
  • Flexible repayment 1 to 5 years
  • Get funds within 2-3 weeks
  • Minimal setup fees
  • Minimal early repayment fees
Learn more

Discover our impact on local businesses

We measure our success by the achievements of the businesses we support. Here’s what some of our clients have to say about their journey.

    "Our partnership with BEF has been instrumental in realising our growth aspirations. This NPIF loan has empowered us to better serve our community and expand our horizons."

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    Tomas Oppedal

    The eye store

    “They clearly understood our vision and the entire process was straightforward, taking the stress out of launching a brand new business.”

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    Jeff Ben Mayor

    The Spine Guy

    “As a first-time entrepreneur, starting my own business was intimidating, but the BEF team helped with the whole process, giving me the confidence to push forward. It is great what I have been able to achieve so far and I look forward to continuing this growth trajectory.”

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    David Jameson

    Danelaw Coffee

    Finance that powers possibilities

    Many small businesses struggle to access the finance they need when they need it the most. Our tailored solutions unlock access to finance to help small businesses flourish and impact their local communities.

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    Collaborating for greater impact

    We believe in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change. Our network of trusted partners helps extend our reach and impact.

    Get in touch

    Discover our impact

    Altogether, we've supported over 5,000 businesses and helped create or safeguard over 13,000 jobs. As a not-for-profit social enterprise, every bit of our profit is reinvested to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.

    Download impact report