Do you support the UK Growth Guarantee Scheme and am I eligible?
Short answer: yes — we can introduce you to lenders offering the UK Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS), and here’s how to check eligibility
Direct answer first
Yes — Best Business Loans can connect eligible UK businesses with accredited lenders and specialist brokers who offer facilities under the UK Growth Guarantee Scheme. We are an independent introducer, not a lender, and we do not make lending decisions or offer advice. Eligibility is set by individual lenders under the British Business Bank scheme rules and is always subject to status, affordability, and underwriting.
At-a-glance eligibility
Most lenders typically look for UK-based trading businesses with turnover up to £45 million that are viable and seeking finance for growth, investment, or working capital. Acceptable facility types usually include term loans, asset finance, invoice finance, and overdrafts. The government provides a guarantee to the lender (not to you), and you remain 100% liable for the debt.
How we help
Our AI-powered platform matches your profile to providers likely to support GGS facilities in your sector. You complete a quick enquiry, we introduce you to suitable partners, and you stay in control of your next steps. There’s no obligation to proceed, and you can compare options before you decide.
What to do next
If you’d like a fast indication of potential eligibility, submit a Quick Quote request and include that you’re interested in the Growth Guarantee Scheme. We’ll prioritise introductions to accredited lenders or experienced brokers that are active with GGS. Response times vary by provider, purpose, and loan size.
Important reminder
Best Business Loans does not supply finance directly and is not authorised to provide regulated advice. All information here is general and for guidance only and may change; lenders apply their own criteria and pricing. Information correct as of October 2025, based on British Business Bank guidance and lender market practice.
Compliance note
We aim for communications that are clear, fair and not misleading, in line with FCA, ASA, and Google advertising guidelines. We do not guarantee approval, rates, or timescales, and we avoid claims that could create unrealistic expectations. Always review lender terms and seek independent advice if you are unsure.
What is the UK Growth Guarantee Scheme and how does it work?
Scheme overview
The Growth Guarantee Scheme is a UK government-backed programme delivered by the British Business Bank through accredited lenders. It helps viable businesses access finance where the lender’s risk appetite may otherwise be limited. The guarantee supports the lender’s risk, not the borrower’s obligations.
Facility types and terms
Under GGS, participating lenders may offer term loans, overdrafts, asset finance, and invoice finance. Typical maximum facilities can be up to £2 million per business, subject to lender policy and subsidy control rules. Common terms are up to six years for term loans and asset finance, and up to three years for overdrafts and invoice finance.
Pricing and fees
Pricing is set by lenders and must reflect the benefit of the government guarantee within scheme parameters. There is no borrower guarantee fee payable to government under GGS; however, lenders may charge interest and fees as per their policies. Your actual cost will depend on your profile, security, and the product selected.
Security and guarantees
Lenders may take security and personal guarantees at their discretion, in line with scheme rules. A principal private residence cannot be taken as security under the scheme. You remain fully liable for the debt, and the government does not provide you with a guarantee.
Purpose of finance
Funding can typically be used for working capital, investment, growth projects, asset purchases, and in some cases refinancing existing debt to improve cash flow. Some uses and sectors may be restricted depending on lender policy and scheme rules. Your introducer or lender will confirm what is acceptable for your circumstances.
Accreditation matters
Only accredited lenders and their permitted partners can supply GGS-backed facilities. Best Business Loans maintains a network of providers that are active in this market. We introduce you to matched providers so you can engage directly and make an informed decision.
Am I eligible for the Growth Guarantee Scheme?
Core checks lenders commonly apply
Most providers require that you are a UK-based trading business with turnover up to £45 million. They will assess viability, affordability, and business performance, typically reviewing accounts, bank statements, and management information. You must not be in insolvency proceedings and must meet subsidy control requirements.
Trading history and structure
Many lenders prefer at least 12–24 months of trading with filed accounts, though this varies by product and provider. Limited companies and LLPs are commonly supported, while some providers may also consider partnerships. Best Business Loans currently focuses on established businesses and does not support start-ups or sole traders.
Credit profile and conduct
The scheme can support businesses that might otherwise struggle to secure traditional finance, but lenders still assess credit risk. Historic adverse data does not automatically disqualify you, though serious or recent issues may limit options. Tax arrears, returned items, or supplier pressures will usually be reviewed in context of a turnaround or growth plan.
Sectors and exclusions
Most trading sectors can be considered, including manufacturing, logistics, construction, hospitality, healthcare, and professional services. Some sectors may be restricted by lenders or under scheme rules, such as financial services firms or certain education bodies. If in doubt, submit an enquiry and we’ll steer you to providers that suit your sector.
Use of funds and refinancing
Lenders typically allow funding for working capital, equipment, vehicles, expansion, and productivity improvements. Refinancing existing borrowing can be permissible if it improves the business’s financial position and aligns with scheme rules. Property development and speculative activities are commonly excluded by mainstream lenders.
Comparing options beyond the scheme
Even if you are not eligible for GGS, there may be alternative routes that match your goals. Our network includes providers offering asset finance, invoice finance, and working capital solutions outside the scheme. You can also explore our guide to small business loans to understand broader funding routes.
How to apply via BestBusinessLoans.ai — process, documents, and timelines
Step 1: Submit a Quick Quote
Complete our short online form with details about your business, the purpose of funding, and your preferred amount. Indicate your interest in the Growth Guarantee Scheme so we can prioritise accredited providers. This initial step is free and without obligation.
Step 2: AI matching and introductions
Our system analyses your profile and shortlists lenders or brokers that align with your needs and sector. We then make introductions so you can discuss your plans directly with relevant professionals. You remain the decision-maker at every stage.
Step 3: Provide documents for assessment
Most providers will ask for recent statutory accounts, up to six months’ business bank statements, and management information. Additional items can include aged debtor and creditor lists, a business plan, and asset details for security. Rapid access to complete documentation often speeds up outcomes.
Step 4: Indicative terms and underwriting
If your profile aligns, you may receive an outline of terms, subject to full assessment and evidence. The provider will carry out underwriting, and may request clarifications or updated financials. Timescales vary by product, complexity, and responsiveness to information requests.
Step 5: Offer and completion
Approved applications progress to a formal offer that sets out pricing, security, covenants, and conditions. Read all documentation carefully and seek independent advice if needed before signing. Once conditions are satisfied, funds are advanced or facilities are put in place.
Typical timelines and expectations
Simple asset finance cases can complete in days, while larger term loans may take several weeks. Invoice finance and overdraft facilities often require detailed onboarding and legal documentation. No outcome is guaranteed, and each provider’s process is different.
FAQs, key takeaways, and important notices
Do you support the UK Growth Guarantee Scheme?
Yes — we introduce eligible businesses to lenders and brokers that offer GGS-backed finance. We do not lend or advise; we help you find suitable providers efficiently. You can submit an eligibility enquiry at any time.
How much could my business borrow under GGS?
Amounts depend on product type, affordability, and lender policy, with many cases up to £2 million. Smaller facilities are common for working capital, assets, or vehicle purchases. Your provider will confirm limits after assessment.
Will my home be used as security?
Under scheme rules, a principal private residence cannot be taken as security. Lenders may require other security and personal guarantees depending on the case. Always review security requests before proceeding.
What does the government guarantee actually cover?
The guarantee is provided to the lender, not the borrower. You remain fully liable for the debt and must meet all repayment obligations. The guarantee supports the lender’s risk appetite, helping unlock access to finance.
What if I don’t qualify for GGS?
We can still introduce you to alternative providers and products that may fit your goals. Options can include asset finance, invoice finance, working capital loans, and refinance. Tell us your objective and we’ll route you accordingly.
Do you charge customers a fee?
Submitting an enquiry on our site is free and without obligation. If a third-party broker or lender charges fees, these will be disclosed by them. Always check the total cost of finance before you commit.
Important compliance information
Best Business Loans is an independent introducer and does not provide loans, credit broking, or regulated financial advice. All finance is subject to lender criteria, status, affordability checks, and legal documentation, and your credit score may be impacted when you proceed. We follow “clear, fair and not misleading” principles and recommend you seek independent professional advice where appropriate.
Key takeaways
The Growth Guarantee Scheme supports lending to viable UK businesses via accredited providers. We can introduce you to suitable lenders and brokers if you appear eligible. Submit a Quick Quote to check potential options with no obligation.
Ready to explore your options? Complete your Quick Quote now, tell us you’re interested in GGS, and our AI will match you with providers who can help.