What is the application process for a startup business loan?

What changes for a startup

A startup has little of what lenders normally rely on — filed accounts, trading history, a track record. So the assessment shifts to the founder's own credit and experience, the credibility of the business plan, and any early revenue showing in the bank account. See applying as a newly incorporated company.

Building a fundable case

A startup wins funding with a realistic plan, a credible cash-flow forecast, and a clear route to repayment — not optimism. Use the business plan template and a cash-flow forecast, and be prepared to give a personal guarantee, which most startup lending requires.

Where to apply

Mainstream banks often set minimum trading periods that rule out startups, so specialist start-up lenders, government-backed schemes and alternative providers usually fit better. Size the ask carefully with the funding-requirement calculator — modest and well-justified beats ambitious and vague — then explore a business loan.