Who is eligible—do you only support established UK farms and agri-businesses?

Short answer: We support far more than just established farms

No—Best Business Loans helps a wide range of established UK businesses, not only farms and agri‑businesses. Our platform matches limited companies and LLPs across many sectors with suitable finance providers. Agriculture is a key sector for us, but it’s one of many industries we support.

We’re an independent introducer, not a lender, and we don’t provide financial advice. Eligibility is determined by lenders and brokers in our network, and criteria vary by product and provider.

What “eligible” means on our platform

We match your business profile and funding goals to providers who are actively lending to companies like yours. Typical factors include business age, turnover, profitability trends, credit profile, and asset base. You can submit a free Quick Quote to get an initial eligibility check without obligation.

Scope and fairness

We aim to keep our information clear, fair, and not misleading. We cannot guarantee approval, rates, or outcomes, and all terms are set by the provider you choose. Any funding decision is subject to underwriting and verification by the lender or broker.

Who we can support today

We primarily support UK-registered limited companies and LLPs that are actively trading. For many products, lenders prefer 12+ months’ trading and a clear business purpose for the funds. We can help companies in sectors such as agriculture, construction, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, retail, and more.

If you are an established UK farm or agri‑business structured as a limited company or LLP, we can often help you explore options. Providers in our network can consider finance for machinery, vehicles, equipment, cash flow, and seasonal working capital, subject to status.

Typical eligibility indicators providers look for

• UK-registered limited company or LLP with an active UK business bank account.
• Trading history often 12–24 months for unsecured products; asset-backed options may allow more flexibility.
• Turnover proportionate to the funding requested and a clear, lawful use of funds.
• Directors and key principals with acceptable credit and no recent unmitigated insolvency events.
• Evidence of affordability based on cash flow, margins, or seasonal projections.
• Up-to-date management information, filed accounts, and HMRC status where relevant.
• For asset or equipment finance: identifiable assets with suitable value, provenance, and insurability.

Agriculture-specific notes

Farms and agri-businesses often have seasonal income and asset-rich balance sheets. Many lenders are comfortable assessing seasonal affordability and security where applicable. Explore sector-specific guidance on our agriculture page: agriculture business loans.

We can also match non-agricultural businesses to providers for cash flow loans, equipment finance, invoice finance, vehicle and fleet solutions, sustainability funding, and more. Submit a Quick Quote to see potential matches without obligation.

Who we cannot currently support—and alternatives

To keep things clear and fair, there are categories we do not support right now. These include start-ups, sole traders, franchises, property finance, and commercial mortgages. If your farm operates as a sole trade or unincorporated partnership, we’re not currently able to assist.

We don’t promise the lowest rates, and we never guarantee approval. Rates, fees, and terms are determined by the provider and will be fully disclosed before you choose to proceed.

Clear, fair and not misleading

All outcomes are subject to provider checks, underwriting, and documentation. A Decision in Principle is illustrative and not a binding offer. We encourage you to review all terms and seek independent financial or legal advice if needed.

If you’re out of scope, consider these routes

• British Business Bank resources and programmes that support UK SMEs.
• Start Up Loans Company for early-stage businesses seeking government-backed options.
• NFU and sector bodies for specialist agri funding guidance and grants.
• Local enterprise partnerships and councils for regional grants or support.
• High-street banks or agricultural finance specialists who serve sole traders and partnerships.

We are working to expand our coverage over time. If you’re unsure about your status, contact hello@bestbusinessloans.ai for guidance before submitting a Quick Quote.

How our AI matching and eligibility check works

Our process is designed to be fast, straightforward, and free to use. It helps you avoid multiple cold applications and focuses your time on relevant providers. You stay in control at every step.

Simple steps to get matched

1. Complete a Quick Quote with basic details about your company and funding need.
2. Our AI reviews your profile against lenders and brokers in our network.
3. We introduce you to suitable providers for a no-obligation conversation.
4. You compare options, review costs, and decide if you wish to proceed.

Turnaround times vary by product and provider. Seasonal or asset-based finance for farms may require valuations or additional data, which can add steps.

What to have ready

• Company details, directors, and contact information.
• Latest filed accounts and recent management information.
• Bank statements (typically 3–6 months) and any existing finance schedule.
• Details of the asset or equipment if relevant (make, model, age, cost).
• Purpose of funds, projected cash flow or seasonal forecasts, and insurance details where needed.

We take privacy seriously and only share your details with relevant, selected finance professionals. A Decision in Principle is not guaranteed and is always subject to lender due diligence.

FAQs, practical tips, and next steps

Below are short answers to common questions to help you decide your next move. You can also contact our UK team if you want guidance before you submit. Remember, submitting a Quick Quote is free and there’s no obligation.

Quick FAQs

Do you only support established UK farms and agri-businesses?

No. We support many established UK sectors, including agriculture, construction, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, retail, and more. If you are a UK limited company or LLP with trading history, we may be able to match you.

Can you help sole traders or start-ups?

Not at present. We currently cannot support start-ups, sole traders, franchises, property finance, or commercial mortgages. Please consider the British Business Bank, Start Up Loans Company, or sector-specific advisors.

Do you offer loans directly?

No. We are an independent introducer using AI to match your business with relevant lenders and brokers. We do not provide financial advice, and we are not a lender.

What are typical documents required?

Recent bank statements, filed accounts, management information, and details of the funding purpose are common. Asset finance usually requires asset details and may include valuation or insurance data.

Are rates guaranteed?

No. Rates and terms depend on your profile and the provider’s underwriting. You’ll receive clear information from providers before you choose to proceed.

Tips to improve eligibility

• Keep accounts and management information up to date and accurate.
• Demonstrate affordability with cash flow forecasts, especially for seasonal income.
• Reduce unnecessary credit enquiries and maintain clean filing with HMRC.
• Prepare a concise funding rationale outlining the commercial benefit and ROI.
• Ensure assets are insurable and documented if seeking asset or equipment finance.

Next steps

If you’re an established UK company—including farms and agri-businesses structured as limited companies or LLPs—submit a Quick Quote for a free eligibility check. Our AI will match you with providers who may be able to help. You can then compare options and decide your best route.

We aim to make finance exploration faster, clearer, and more relevant to your sector. You remain in control and under no obligation until you choose to proceed with a provider.

Key takeaways

• We do not only support farms; we support many established UK sectors.
• Eligibility typically favours UK limited companies or LLPs with trading history.
• Start-ups, sole traders, franchises, property finance, and commercial mortgages are not supported.
• All outcomes are subject to provider criteria, underwriting, and verification.
• Submitting a Quick Quote is free, secure, and without obligation.

Important information: Best Business Loans is an independent introducer, not a lender, and does not provide financial advice. Financial information on this page is general in nature and may not apply to your circumstances.

Updated October 2025