FundingKnight Limited is a peer-to-peer lender established in 2011 in the UK. It specialises in providing SME business loans and property-backed finance via an online marketplace connecting investors with borrowing businesses. FundingKnight is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA FRN 722801) and is a member of the UK Peer-to-Peer Finance Association. This lender offers options primarily suited for established UK SMEs and property professionals seeking finance options between unsecured loans and specialist property funding. More about lenders and unsecured business loans can be found on Funding Agent.
Key Features of FundingKnight
FundingKnight operates through a digital platform delivering fast access to multiple funding sources with transparent handling and investor protections.
- Online marketplace model offers quick access to professional and retail investors, seen among peer to peer lenders.
- Transparent, digital application with decisions often within 48 hours enhances the experience, detailed within application service provider.
- Dedicated relationship managers provide telephone support, complementing the digital process contact.
Funding Eligibility
Most unsecured loans require at least two years of profitable trading and a minimum annual turnover of £100,000. The criteria are typical among SME lenders. Personal guarantees from directors or shareholders are broadly mandatory, reflecting standard practice explained in personal guarantee requirements.
- You may qualify if your business is a UK limited company or LLP, with clear profitability prospects, as outlined in loan eligibility requirements.
- Property-backed loans expect clear title and location in England or Wales, with a maximum loan-to-value of 70%, aligning with bridging loans eligibility.
- Sector exclusions apply, including arms, tobacco, gambling, and speculative property, restricting some applicants.
Loan Options
FundingKnight provides a range of loan types, each suited to distinct business needs from working capital to property development finance.
- Unsecured Business Term Loan: Amounts from £25,000 to £150,000, terms from 6 months to 5 years, typical APR 6.49%–16.00%. No early repayment fees but arrangement fees apply.
Learn about unsecured business loans. - Property Bridging Loan: Amounts between £150,000 and £3,000,000, terms from 3 to 18 months on an interest-only basis. Interest rates range from 9.0% to 15.0% per annum. Security via first legal charge on eligible UK property.
More on bridging loans. - Property Development Finance: Loans from £250,000 to £5,000,000 over 6 to 24 months with staged drawdowns. Interest typically rolled up and repaid on project exit, with rates between 8.0% and 10.5% annually.
Explore term loans including development finance options.
How to Apply
The application process with FundingKnight is fully online, designed for efficiency and clarity. Most unsecured loan decisions come within 48 hours, with funding typically released in 5 to 7 working days after approval.
- Submit an online application form with required documents via the borrower portal. Forms and submission guidelines are similar to those described at Funding Agent application form.
- Provide financial accounts, bank statements, director identification, and property valuations as needed. Uploads and verification align with standards of document submission.
- Underwriters conduct assessments combining automated checks with manual reviews to ensure eligibility, affordability, and credit quality, consistent with processes outlined under loan approval timeline.
- Sign agreements and receive loan funds as per terms with no early repayment penalties for standard unsecured loans.
Funding Agent’s View on FundingKnight
FundingKnight occupies a specific niche bridging the gap between traditional banks and emerging fintech lenders. It caters to established UK SMEs seeking up to £150,000 unsecured finance and to property professionals requiring flexible bridging and development loans up to several million pounds. The online model enables speed and convenience, although personal guarantees and fees are significant considerations. Businesses meeting typical eligibility requirements and with sound credit profiles may find this lender fitting. Further assistance is available via eligibility guides, finance tools, and loan comparisons to explore suitable financing solutions.
