Do you work with start-ups or sole traders, or do I need to be a limited company/LLP?

The short answer — who we can help today

We currently work with established UK limited companies and LLPs, not start-ups or sole traders. Our AI matching connects incorporated trading businesses with suitable commercial lenders and brokers who are actively funding in their sector. We do not provide loans directly; we act as an introducer to relevant finance providers.

“Start-up” generally means a business with limited or no trading history, often under 12 months. A “sole trader” is an unincorporated individual trading in their own name rather than as a company or LLP. Most of the providers on our network require incorporated status and a trading track record to consider an application.

If you are an established limited company or LLP seeking working capital, asset finance, invoice finance, or other commercial funding, we can help you explore options. If you are a start-up or sole trader, we’ve included practical alternatives and preparation tips below. That way, you can become funding-ready as soon as possible.

Why we focus on limited companies and LLPs

Lenders typically prefer incorporated entities because company structures provide clearer financial reporting and legal separation. That improves underwriting reliability and widens the choice of finance products available. It can also lead to more consistent terms and processes for applicants.

By specialising in this space, our matching engine is more accurate, and you get relevant introductions faster. It saves time compared with contacting dozens of providers individually. You remain in control of any next steps and there is no obligation to proceed.

Compliance and clarity

Best Business Loans is an independent introducer, not a lender or broker, and does not provide financial advice. Any finance you pursue will be provided by third parties, subject to their checks, terms, and status. All information on this page is designed to be fair, clear, and not misleading.

Who we can help — typical eligibility and sectors

Our platform works best for UK limited companies and LLPs with active trading operations. Providers may look for a consistent revenue profile, filed or management accounts, and a clear purpose for funding. Exact criteria vary by lender, product type, and sector.

While requirements differ, lenders commonly review:

• Business structure and trading history (incorporated, actively trading, UK-based).
• Management or filed accounts, bank statements, and up-to-date tax submissions.
• Purpose of finance, affordability, and cash flow forecasts.
• Directors’ experience; personal guarantees may be requested.
• Existing commitments and credit conduct for the business and key individuals.

We frequently support asset-rich and operational sectors, including construction, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, agriculture, and professional services. We also assist established retailers and eCommerce companies seeking working capital or asset-backed solutions. For example, learn more about funding for retail businesses here: retailers business loans.

Funds we can help you explore

We help you explore commercial options such as cash flow loans, equipment and asset finance, invoice finance, vehicles and fleet, fit-out finance, refinance, and sustainability-linked funding. We also include pathways to the Growth Guarantee Scheme for eligible companies. We do not support property finance or commercial mortgages.

Every lender sets its own policies on rates, security, and required documents. We cannot guarantee the cheapest rate, an offer, or specific terms. What we can do is help you connect quickly with providers that fit your profile.

Important eligibility notes

We are not currently set up to process enquiries from start-ups, sole traders, franchises, or property finance applicants. If you submit a Quick Quote and you fall outside our scope, we may be unable to match you. This helps keep our service fair, relevant, and time-efficient.

If you’re a start-up or sole trader — what are your options?

Although we can’t match start-ups or sole traders today, you still have viable routes to explore. Mainstream banks, challenger banks, and community development finance institutions may offer products for early-stage or non-incorporated businesses. Government-backed programmes, local enterprise partnerships, and some microfinance providers can be especially helpful.

Consider these practical alternatives and steps:

• Government-backed programmes: The British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme offers personal loans for business purposes with mentoring support.
• High-street and challenger banks: Some offer business overdrafts, small loans, or card-based working capital tools once you build a track record.
• Leasing and subscriptions: Where available, small-ticket equipment on subscription or rental can help you operate without large upfront costs.
• Trade credit: Negotiate supplier terms to support cash flow while you grow revenue.
• Grants and local support: Look for regional grants or growth hubs for early-stage funding and advice.

To become “finance-ready” for more options later, focus on strong financial hygiene. Keep accurate bookkeeping, file taxes promptly, and maintain clean business banking records. Good record-keeping supports affordability assessments when you reach incorporated status.

Preparing to incorporate and scale

Many commercial lenders prefer at least one year of trading history for limited companies or LLPs. Some will consider shorter histories with strong management accounts and clear visibility of revenue. Incorporation can also broaden the range of products open to you, such as invoice finance and asset-backed facilities.

If you plan to incorporate, speak with your accountant about structure, directors’ responsibilities, and tax implications. Good governance early on can lead to smoother future applications. It also helps lenders assess risk accurately and fairly.

Helpful preparation checklist

• Open a dedicated business bank account and separate personal spending.
• Adopt accounting software and keep real-time records.
• Create a simple business plan and cash flow forecast.
• File on time and keep evidence of key contracts, orders, or invoices.
• Build a modest reserve to demonstrate resilience and affordability.

Why limited company/LLP status matters to lenders

Incorporation helps lenders perform structured underwriting with clearer financial statements and legal separation. It usually means more transparent accounts, clearer liabilities, and a consistent view of cash flow and assets. That, in turn, can widen the pool of interested providers and product types.

For example, asset finance providers may favour incorporated entities when funding equipment or vehicles. Invoice finance providers typically seek incorporated B2B firms with verifiable debtor books and credit control processes. Cash flow lenders also look closely at company financials and bank conduct to assess affordability.

Does being a limited company guarantee approval?

No, incorporation does not guarantee funding. Lenders still assess trading performance, affordability, credit conduct, and the purpose of finance. Security and personal guarantees may also be requested, depending on risk.

Can sole traders get similar products elsewhere?

Some providers do support sole traders for certain products. However, our current network and matching process are focused on incorporated entities. We want to maintain clarity and avoid wasted applications for users outside our scope.

If you are a sole trader planning to incorporate, consider building a track record that will be visible post-incorporation. Consistent revenue, professional record-keeping, and timely tax submissions send positive signals to future lenders. When you are ready, our Quick Quote can help you discover suitable options quickly.

Practical documentation lenders may request

• Recent business bank statements and up-to-date management accounts.
• Latest filed accounts and current liabilities schedule.
• Details of assets, any existing finance, and directors’ information.
• For invoice finance: aged debtor and creditor reports, sample invoices, and contracts.
• For asset finance: asset details, supplier quotes, and maintenance or usage plans.

Next steps — checking eligibility and getting matched

If you are a UK limited company or LLP, the fastest route is to complete our Quick Quote form. It takes only a few minutes and helps our AI understand your business profile and funding goals. We then connect you with suitable lenders or brokers who may be able to help.

Here is how it works:

1. Tell us about your business, funding purpose, and the amount required.
2. Our AI analyses your details and shortlists relevant providers in our network.
3. We introduce you to the most suitable matches for your sector and needs.
4. You remain in control, compare options, and decide what to do next.

To speed things up, have recent bank statements and management accounts ready. A simple cash flow forecast helps providers assess affordability. Clear documentation can reduce back-and-forth and lead to faster decisions.

FAQs

Do you work with start-ups? Not at the moment. Our network is geared towards incorporated businesses with trading history.

Do you support sole traders? No, we currently support limited companies and LLPs only. We share preparation tips above so you can plan ahead.

What counts as “established”? Lenders’ definitions vary, but a meaningful trading history and financial records are important. Many funders expect to see consistent revenue and affordability evidence.

Can you guarantee the lowest rate? No. We do not claim to find the absolute lowest rate, and we do not guarantee approval. We aim to connect you to relevant and trusted providers efficiently.

Is there any obligation to proceed? No. Submitting an enquiry is free and without obligation. You decide which route is best for your business.

Key takeaways

• We support incorporated, established UK businesses (limited companies and LLPs), not start-ups or sole traders.
• Our AI matching introduces you to relevant lenders and brokers based on your profile and sector.
• No guarantees on pricing or approval, but we make it faster to find suitable providers.
• If you are early stage, use the preparation steps to get finance-ready.
• Start your Quick Quote to check eligibility and compare your options.

Important information and transparency

Best Business Loans is an independent introducer using AI to match businesses with finance providers. We do not offer credit or provide financial advice, and we are not the decision-maker. Credit is subject to status, affordability, and provider terms; security and personal guarantees may be required.

All promotions aim to be fair, clear, and not misleading in line with UK expectations. We may receive an introducer fee from providers if you proceed with an option they offer. Your information is handled securely and shared only with relevant finance professionals for the purpose of your enquiry.

Updated

Updated October 2025. Criteria, products, and lender availability can change; always check current requirements when applying.