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Starting a business has never been more challenging. From an initial idea to an ambitious start up, the country continues to try and promote a nation that is wanting more entrepreneurs and small business owners. But turning an idea into a sustainable business often comes down to one critical factor, funding.

In this episode, David & Trevor explore how new and growing businesses can find the right type of finance without overpaying or choosing the wrong option. Raising capital is not just about securing money, it is about finding finance that fits the business properly and can support it’s early stages of growth.

They discuss why many new business owners still lack awareness of the different types of debt finance available to them, including Director loans such as those offered by the British Business Bank and initiatives like the Growth Guarantee Scheme. Understanding these options together with who the best lenders are, can make a significant difference when considering the best-fit funding strategy.

They also talk about the importance of start up capital. Ideally, many early costs should be covered by funds introduced by the business owners themselves, or through support from friends and family maybe. Having some initial capital in place can strengthen a business before seeking external debt finance.

A realistic and well structured business plan is also essential. It should clearly outline capital needs, projected cash flow, and the overall financial path of the business. With a strong plan in hand, the next step is presenting it to experienced business finance professionals who can help guide the process.

Unfortunately, signposting across the finance landscape remains poor for both start ups and established businesses. That is why seeking guidance from a member of The Guild of Finance Professionals can be invaluable. Before searching online, approaching lenders directly, or rushing into a funding decision, getting independent guidance first could save time, money, and costly mistakes.

Do not search the internet. Do not contact a lender directly. Do not pass GO without contacting a Guild member at the very least.

If you are starting a business, or looking to grow one, this episode highlights the steps to take before pursuing finance and why speaking to the right professionals early can make all the difference.

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To listen to the Podcast, all episodes can be found on all the major platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube and https://bfm.buzzsprout.com/

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In this episode, David and Trevor take a closer look at how the relationship between banks and small businesses has changed over time, and whether things might finally be shifting again.

They reflect on the fallout from the 2008 financial crisis and how it marked the end of the traditional bank manager relationship, once seen as a trusted partner in a business’s growth and development. What used to be a personal, supportive connection has, for the majority of business owners, turned into something distant and non-transactional.

The conversation explores how today’s banks often feel disengaged, especially for businesses with turnover under c.£5 million, many of which now operate with little to no meaningful contact from their bank. David and Trevor also discuss the lingering issue of security held against businesses, sometimes tied to lending that is largely reduce or repaid.

But it’s not all negative. There are early signs of change. Drawing on insights from member of The Guild of Business Finance Professionals, they talk about a renewed appetite among some banks to support smaller businesses, especially when the right match is found on both sides.

They wrap up by asking the big question: could we see a return to trust, stronger relationships, and better access to funding via the high street banks again? And if so, what would that mean for the future of small businesses and the wider UK economy?

A thoughtful discussion for any business owner wondering where they stand with their bank today.

Support the show

To access our visual channel please click here https://youtu.be/DyjKdnXoCv4?si=a0aCtHmhuPNQmkjr

Please subscribe and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter/X. Just search for 'Business Finance Matters'.

To listen to the Podcast, all episodes can be found on all the major platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube and https://bfm.buzzsprout.com/

All comments are welcomed and may be discussed on future episodes.

Thanks for listening

Send a text

Short-term business funding is becoming more common, and more visible across the market. In this episode, David and Trevor look at the rise of non-bank lenders offering 12 to 24 month business loans, and why so many businesses are turning to them.

These products are typically fintech-driven, quick to apply for, and funds can often land in a business account within days. For companies dealing with immediate pressures, such as unpaid invoices, VAT bills, or a short-term cashflow gap, that speed can be a lifeline. Many of these facilities are also designed to be repaid quickly and often come with no early repayment penalties.

But convenience comes at a cost. Interest rates can be high, and personal guarantees are typically required, which means business owners carry personal risk. The key question becomes...is this type of funding the best fit, and can the business realistically repay the loan over a short period?

The conversation also explores some of the risks that are starting to appear in the market. Multiple applications through different brokers, stacked loans from several lenders, and decisions made too quickly because the process can be so easy. When speed and convenience take centre stage, careful decision-making can sometimes fall behind.

This episode also looks at when short-term funding works well and, more importantly, when it doesn’t…and why guidance from experienced business finance professionals can make a real difference before committing to any form of debt finance.

Support the show

To access our visual channel please click here https://youtu.be/DyjKdnXoCv4?si=a0aCtHmhuPNQmkjr

Please subscribe and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter/X. Just search for 'Business Finance Matters'.

To listen to the Podcast, all episodes can be found on all the major platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube and https://bfm.buzzsprout.com/

All comments are welcomed and may be discussed on future episodes.

Thanks for listening