Being your own boss shouldn't mean being your own bank. As a sole trader, your business and personal life are often intertwined, making traditional bank lending a slow and painful process. We simplify the journey by connecting you with over 100 specialist UK lenders who understand the self-employed landscape. Whether you need capital for a new van, project materials, or to manage a seasonal cash-flow gap, we can secure funding from £5,000 to £500,000+ with fast decisions and no upfront fees. Get the capital you need to grow, without the red tape.
As an FCA-authorised broker, we use Open Banking and soft credit searches alongside your SA302 or Tax Overview to verify your eligibility — without affecting your credit score.
From tools and vehicles to tax bills and stock — we fund the real needs of the self-employed.
Helping tradespeople, consultants, and creatives get the kit they need to take on bigger contracts. From a new transit van to high-end specialist software, scaffolding for a builder, or a camera rig for a freelance videographer — the right equipment expands what you can offer and the size of jobs you can quote for.
Smoothing out the 'feast and famine' nature of sole trading. Perfect for covering those January and July Self Assessment payments or staying liquid during a quiet month. HMRC penalties for late payment start at 5% of the amount owed — a short-term loan to pay on time is almost always cheaper than the fine.
When you win a big job but need to buy the materials before you can start — timber, plumbing supplies, electrical components, or specialist ingredients. This funding bridges the gap between starting the work and getting that final invoice paid. It's the most common reason tradespeople come to us: they've landed the contract but can't afford to start it without upfront capital.
Lenders don't have a 'Company House' record to check for you, so your SA302 (Tax Calculation) and Tax Year Overview are your best friends. Ensure you have your most recent 2 years of HMRC tax returns ready in PDF format. Having these docs clean and ready to go can often cut your approval time from days down to just a few hours.
As a sole trader, you and the business are legally the same entity. This means lenders will look closely at your personal credit score. Before applying, ensure there are no simple errors on your credit report. If your personal score is healthy, you'll find it much easier to unlock lower interest rates and higher funding amounts.
Loans to sole traders (under £25,000) are often covered by the Consumer Credit Act, which gives you extra protections that Limited Companies don't get. This is why some high-street banks shy away from sole trader lending—it's more 'paperwork' for them. Specialist lenders, however, are set up for this and actually prefer the transparency of a sole trader's personal bank statements.
To qualify for our alternative business finance solutions, your business needs to meet these basic criteria
Your business must be either a limited company, LLP, sole trader or partnership in the UK
Minimum monthly turnover of £10,000 to qualify for funding
At least 6 months of established trading history required
At least one director or shareholder must be a UK resident
If your business meets these requirements, you could be eligible for funding despite bank declines
Hundreds of UK businesses have relied on us when they needed funding fast.
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Fully regulated for your peace of mind
We find the right match for your business
Free to apply, no upfront fees, and expert support tailored to the self-employed.