Start Up Loans Reviews

Start Up Loans provides accessible funding and expert support to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses confidently and successfully.

Here are the Trustpilot Reviews from Start Up Loans:

Here are the Reviews from Start Up Loans:

Very swift and very supportive throughout the whole process. I was given advice, recommendations, and lots of reassurance. Thank you James

Inside-Out Regeneration

Suzy has been exceptional in the time she has given me in order to complete the loan. Her attention to detail, her kindness and her knowledge have been incomparable. She has really helped to relive th e stress of the process and it has proven seamless with her help and guidance

Kerensa Platts

I'm sharing an honest review based on my personal experience with obtaining a business loan. First and foremost, this review is entirely my own and not influenced in any way. Before applying, I came across many negative reviews—mostly from people frustrated by loan rejections or unsatisfactory experiences with business advisors. However, my experience was quite different. I came fully prepared, ready to answer any question thrown my way. At the end of the day, building a business requires a solid understanding of your operations, goals, and financials. Being well-prepared not only boosts your confidence but also enables your business advisor to support you effectively. If you're entering this process without a clear plan or knowledge of your business, it's unrealistic to expect strong guidance or the outcome you're hoping for. I began my loan application on April 17, and in just 28 days, everything was approved. I want to extend a sincere thank you to my business advisor, Sergio, and to the panel team for believing in the potential of my business. Lastly, don't let negative reviews shape your expectations—try it yourself and form your own opinion.

adam aissa

Thorough and efficient process!

Philip Udeh

The staff allocated to my file were professional and approachable. They handled my case skillfully with patience and valued my contribution. Their professionalism is of high standard. They kept me updated on every step of the process, explaining everything requirement with clarity. They were always accessible and willing to support during the whole process.

JB Jeanette Bunga

Everyone needs a little help. I have the idea of running my own business for years but only now is that dream becoming a reality. Being able to obtain some financial support to help get started, is th e push I have always needed.

Mark Geaney

Explore Start Up Loans' Finance Solutions:

Start Up Loan (Initial)

£500 – £25,000 per individual (up to £100,000 per business group)

Second Start Up Loan (Top-Up)

Up to remaining balance of £25,000 per individual (e.g., if £10k taken initially, up to £15k available)

Apply Now!

Explore Start Up Loans' Finance Solutions:

Loan Type:

Start Up Loan (Initial)

Loan Range:

£500 – £25,000 per individual (up to £100,000 per business group)

Loan Terms:

1 year to 5 years (fixed)

Minimum Turnover and Trading Age:

Business must be pre-trading or trading for less than 36 months; no minimum turnover

Interest Rate:

Fixed 6.0% p.a. (6.19% representative APR)

Fees:

No arrangement fees, no early repayment fees, no monitoring fees

Loan Type:

Second Start Up Loan (Top-Up)

Loan Range:

Up to remaining balance of £25,000 per individual (e.g., if £10k taken initially, up to £15k available)

Loan Terms:

1 year to 5 years (fixed), independent of first loan term

Minimum Turnover and Trading Age:

Business must still be within 36 months of first sale when applying; no minimum turnover

Interest Rate:

Fixed 6.0% p.a. on additional borrowing

Fees:

No arrangement or early repayment fees

Loan Type:

Loan Range:

Loan Terms:

Minimum Turnover and Trading Age:

Interest Rate:

Fees:

Loan Type:

Loan Range:

Loan Terms:

Minimum Turnover and Trading Age:

Interest Rate:

Fees:

Loan Type:

Loan Range:

Loan Terms:

Minimum Turnover and Trading Age:

Interest Rate:

Fees:

Loan Type:

Loan Range:

Loan Terms:

Minimum Turnover and Trading Age:

Interest Rate:

Fees:

More About Start Up Loans

Start Up Loans is a UK Government-backed scheme operated by the British Business Bank, launched in 2012. It offers unsecured personal loans alongside free mentoring primarily aimed at new and early-stage businesses within their first 36 months of trading. Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), this product suits entrepreneurs seeking modest, affordable finance with business support during start-up phases. For a broader context, see our Startup Loans overview and Start Up Loans reviews.

Key Features of Start Up Loans

The programme combines accessible funding with practical business tools, aiming to support nascent enterprises through its UK-wide delivery partners and digital resources.

Government-backed scheme with transparent, fixed interest rates; details in our Unsecured Business Loans For Startups.
Fixed 6% interest rate reduces cost uncertainty; see related interest rate calculators.
No arrangement, application, or early repayment fees easing upfront costs; compare with other business loans fees.
Includes 12 months of post-loan mentoring and free business resources; access guidance on top startup lenders UK.
Fully digital application portal supported by delivery partners offering localised workshops and tools; see how to qualify in our eligibility guide.

Funding Eligibility

You may qualify for Start Up Loans if your business is pre-trading or has been trading for less than 36 months. There is no minimum turnover requirement, but certain sectors are excluded such as property investment, gambling, and weapons manufacturing. Applicants must be UK residents aged 18 or over with the right to work. For more on qualifying criteria, see How To Qualify For A Business Loan In The UK and check the Unsecured Business Loans For Startups eligibility. Additionally, see lender requirements to understand broader qualifications.

Loan Options

Start Up Loans offers two main loan types aimed at early-stage businesses, both featuring a fixed interest rate and no fees, designed to fit various start-up funding needs.

Start Up Loan (Initial): Offers £500 to £25,000 per individual with terms from 1 to 5 years at a fixed 6% interest rate (6.19% representative APR). No arrangement or early repayment fees apply. Suitable for businesses pre-trading or within 36 months. Details at Startup Loans.
Second Start Up Loan (Top-Up): Provides additional funds up to the £25,000 individual limit depending on previous borrowing. Terms and rate match the initial loan. Requires updated business plans and credit checks. More information available at Startup Loans.

How to Apply

Applications are completed online through the Start Up Loans portal with support from regional delivery partners. The process involves a detailed business plan and financial forecasts with generally a 1 to 3-week decision timeline.

Submit a full online application including business plan and cash-flow forecast; use available free templates from application forms.
Provide proof of ID, address, and personal financial documents as part of the process; see our document checklist.
Undergo a personal credit check as the loan is unsecured and personally guaranteed.
Review and sign the loan agreement with funds typically released within days following approval; check our funding timelines.

Funding Agent’s view on Start Up Loans

Start Up Loans occupy a distinct role as the UK government’s main unsecured funding option for early-stage companies. Its fixed-rate personal loans paired with mentoring support are especially relevant for founders needing modest amounts under £25,000, or groups combining loans up to £100,000. The scheme is less suitable for highly capital-intensive businesses or mature SMEs beyond 36 months of trading. To explore next steps, use our loan calculator, review unsecured business loans, or check your business loan eligibility.