Can start-ups, sole traders or new-entrant farmers apply through your platform?
Updated: 27 October 2025
Short answer
Right now, our platform is designed for established UK trading businesses, typically limited companies or LLPs with at least 12 months’ trading history. We don’t currently support start-ups, sole traders, or pre-revenue applicants, and that includes most new-entrant farmers without a trading track record. If you are a new farm business that has incorporated and built a year of trading, we may be able to match you with suitable providers.
Why this matters
Many UK lenders and brokers focus on commercial applicants with demonstrable revenue, business banking history, and basic financial records. These standards help them assess affordability, set fair terms, and lend responsibly. Our AI-powered matching reflects this market reality to keep recommendations aligned with active, relevant providers.
What we do
Best Business Loans is an independent introducer that uses data and an established network to connect eligible businesses to potential lenders and brokers. We do not lend money or provide financial advice, and we don’t promise the lowest rate. We help you find realistic options so you can make informed decisions.
Who we can help today — eligibility snapshot
We primarily match established UK trading businesses seeking commercial funding for growth, equipment, vehicles, cash flow, refinance, or working capital. Applicants are usually limited companies or LLPs with at least 12 months’ trading, a business bank account, and basic financial information. We commonly support sectors like construction, manufacturing, transport, healthcare, hospitality, retail, and agriculture.
Are sole traders eligible?
Not at present. Our current lender and broker network is tailored to incorporated businesses. If you are a sole trader, consider incorporation once appropriate for your circumstances, and build 12 months of trading before submitting a Quick Quote.
Are start-ups eligible?
We don’t currently support pre-trading or very early-stage start-ups. New businesses often benefit more from targeted start-up programmes, grants, and specialist schemes designed for early-stage risk. Once you have a year of trading and financial records, our platform becomes more relevant.
What about new-entrant farmers?
New-entrant farmers are typically pre-revenue or early stage, which most commercial lenders view as higher risk. If you have incorporated your enterprise, opened a business bank account, and built 12 months of trading activity, we may be able to help. Until then, consider farming grants, government programmes, and sector bodies for early-stage support.
Why lenders prefer trading history
Underwriting relies on evidence like bank statements, invoices, and management accounts to assess affordability. Trading data also helps lenders tailor products and set fair limits. Meeting these criteria can materially improve your finance options and pricing.
If you’re a start-up, sole trader, or new-entrant farmer — practical next steps
Build a clear trading footprint by opening a dedicated business bank account and keeping accurate records from day one. A simple, up-to-date cash flow forecast and monthly management accounts make a big difference. Create a concise business plan that explains your market, costs, income drivers, and any assets or collateral.
Alternative routes and resources to consider
- British Business Bank Start Up Loans programme — government-backed personal loans for business purposes with mentoring support.
- Farming grants and schemes — explore DEFRA and devolved administrations for equipment, technology, and sustainability programmes.
- Local Growth Hubs and LEPs — advice, workshops, and potential grant signposting for early-stage SMEs.
- Sector bodies — NFU, AHDB, and local agricultural societies often provide guidance and resources for new entrants.
Build eligibility for later
Keep 12 months of business bank statements, raise invoices consistently, and reconcile regularly. If appropriate, consider incorporation and VAT registration when it makes commercial sense. Demonstrate stable income, cost control, and responsible use of any existing credit to enhance your profile.
When to revisit our platform
Once you reach 12+ months of trading and can provide recent bank statements and management accounts, submit a Quick Quote for a Decision in Principle. If you operate in farming or agri-processing, you can also review our detailed guidance on agriculture business loans. Our AI will then match you with providers active in your sector.
How matching works when you’re eligible
Step 1 — Submit a Quick Quote with your business details, the purpose of finance, and the approximate funding amount required. Step 2 — Our AI analyses your profile and shortlists relevant lenders or brokers from our network. Step 3 — We introduce you to suitable providers so you can compare terms and move at your own pace.
What documents help speed things up
- Last 3–6 months of business bank statements.
- Recent management accounts and a simple cash flow forecast.
- Latest filed accounts and any VAT returns if applicable.
- Aged debtor and creditor summaries for invoice-related facilities.
- Asset lists, equipment quotes, or vehicle details for asset finance.
- Director or partner ID and proof of address to pass KYC checks.
Funding types we commonly see
- Asset finance and equipment loans to purchase machinery, tools, or technology.
- Vehicle and fleet finance for cars, vans, and specialist commercial vehicles.
- Invoice finance to unlock cash tied up in outstanding invoices.
- Cash flow loans and working capital solutions for short-term needs.
- Refinance options to restructure or consolidate existing arrangements.
For farms and agri-businesses
Established agricultural businesses often explore equipment finance, vehicles, and cash flow solutions tied to seasonal cycles. Providers may seek evidence of harvest cycles, contracts, or supply-chain agreements. Strong record-keeping and realistic forecasts are especially valuable in the farming sector.
Clear disclosures — fair and transparent information
We are not a lender and we do not provide financial advice. We operate as an independent introducer, using data to connect your business with suitable lenders or brokers. Submitting an enquiry is free and without obligation, and you remain in control of any next steps.
Important information about lending decisions
Eligibility, rates, and terms depend on your circumstances, including credit assessments and affordability checks. Approval is not guaranteed, and security or personal guarantees may be required by providers. All fees, costs, and key terms will be disclosed by the lender or broker before you make any decision.
Regulatory and advertising standards
We aim for our communications to be fair, clear, and not misleading, consistent with FCA and ASA guidance. Any regulated financial promotions we introduce you to will be issued or approved by an FCA-authorised firm. We encourage you to read all terms, request explanations where needed, and consider independent professional advice.
Your privacy and data
Your information is handled securely and confidentially. We only share your details with relevant finance professionals to progress your enquiry, and we never sell your data. You can contact us at any time to discuss how your information is used in line with applicable data protection laws.
FAQs — start-ups, sole traders, and new-entrant farmers
Can I apply as a start-up?
Not currently. Our platform supports established trading businesses, typically with 12+ months’ activity. Consider government-backed start-up resources and revisit us once you have a trading track record.
Do you accept sole traders?
No, not at this time. Most of our partners focus on incorporated entities like limited companies or LLPs. Incorporation and 12 months of trading can improve your eligibility later.
Are new-entrant farmers eligible?
Early-stage new-entrant farmers are usually not eligible until they have established trading. If you have incorporated and built 12+ months of revenue, we may be able to match you to relevant providers. Strong records and realistic forecasts will help your case.
What’s the minimum criteria for consideration?
As a guide, an incorporated UK business with 12+ months’ trading, a business bank account, and recent bank statements and management accounts. Lenders will also review credit profiles, existing commitments, and affordability. Exact criteria differ by provider and product type.
Will you run a credit check?
We don’t run credit checks at enquiry stage. Lenders or brokers you choose to proceed with may conduct credit searches, and they will explain this upfront. Soft searches may be used initially, with hard searches if you proceed.
Do you charge fees?
Submitting a Quick Quote to Best Business Loans is free and without obligation. If a lender or broker charges fees, they will disclose these clearly before you proceed. We may receive a commission from the provider for a successful introduction.
How quickly can I get a Decision in Principle?
Many users receive an initial view within 24–72 hours of providing core information. Timelines vary by product type, amount, and how complete your documents are. Complex cases and asset-heavy finance may take longer.
Do you provide advice or recommend a specific product?
No. We introduce you to suitable providers so you can compare options and decide what fits your business. Consider getting independent professional advice if you’re unsure about any financial decision.
When should I come back to apply?
Revisit us once you have 12 months of trading, steady revenue, and recent statements and management accounts. That’s when our AI matching can add the most value. You can submit a Quick Quote to check eligibility with no obligation.
Key takeaways
- We currently support established, incorporated UK businesses with at least 12 months’ trading.
- Start-ups, sole traders, and most new-entrant farmers are not eligible yet.
- Build trading history, keep strong records, and revisit when you meet basic criteria.
- We are not a lender or adviser; we introduce you to relevant providers so you can compare options.
- Submitting a Quick Quote is free, secure, and without obligation.
Ready to check your eligibility? Submit your Quick Quote for a fast, no-obligation match with suitable providers when you meet the criteria.
About Best Business Loans
BestBusinessLoans.ai helps established UK businesses navigate commercial finance using AI-driven matching and a network of trusted lenders and brokers. We don’t promise the lowest rate, and we don’t provide loans or advice — we help you find realistic options faster so you can make informed decisions.