Tide Platform Ltd, trading as Tide, is a UK fintech established in 2015 that launched its services in 2017. It operates as a digital business banking platform and credit broker regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Tide connects UK SMEs with multiple specialist lenders to offer a variety of business finance products entirely online. This model suits startups needing quick, unsecured credit and established businesses seeking a range of funding options. Read more at Tide Reviews.
Key features of Tide platform
Tide bundles several practical tools for SMEs, combining banking services with digital financing options. Their mobile-first approach and integrations simplify bookkeeping and cash flow management for small businesses.
- Mobile-first business current account with free sign-up and integrated tools.
- Credit marketplace offering multiple finance types in one platform accessible via app.
- Open Banking connects directly for real-time cash-flow insights and credit scoring.
- Automated bookkeeping tools and instant virtual and physical expense cards with controls.
- Built-in invoicing, payment links, and direct debit collection for comprehensive business management.
Funding eligibility with Tide
You may qualify for Tide finance if your business is registered in the UK with at least 3 months trading or a minimum turnover, depending on product. Eligibility depends on turnover, trading history, and sector exclusions as Tide partners with specialist lenders.
- Minimum trading period ranges from 3 months (credit line) up to 24 months (commercial mortgages).
- Minimum monthly revenue thresholds vary, for example, £5,000 monthly revenue for revolving credit.
- High-risk sectors such as gambling and adult services are typically excluded.
Check our eligibility checker and business loan eligibility guides for details.
Loan options available through Tide
Tide offers a variety of funding products sourced from multiple partner lenders, allowing access to different loan types for various business needs.
- Tide Business Loan (Term Loan): £1,000 to £500,000; terms from 3 months to 5 years; representative APR 6% to 35%; fixed repayments; unsecured up to £25,000; usually requires director personal guarantee.
- Tide Credit Line (Revolving Credit Facility): £1,000 to £150,000; 1 to 12 month renewable terms; APR equivalent 24% to 66%; pay interest only on drawn funds; unsecured; requires personal guarantee; flexible drawdowns.
- Tide Merchant Cash Advance: £2,500 to £300,000 based on card takings; no fixed term, repaid via percentage of card sales; factor fee 5% to 25%; unsecured repayments collected automatically; may require personal guarantee.
- Tide Invoice Finance: £10,000 to £1,000,000 up to 90% of invoice value; 30 to 120 days per invoice or rolling facility; discount rate 1.5% to 3.5% per 30 days plus service fees; requires trading and invoicing history and often personal guarantee.
- Tide Asset Finance: £5,000 to £2,000,000; 1 to 6 years; APR 4% to 15%; asset serves as security; personal guarantee frequently requested; suitable for equipment purchase.
- Tide Commercial Mortgage: £50,000 to £25,000,000; 3 to 25 years; variable or fixed rates 2.5% to 8% above base rate; property secures mortgage; requires 24 months trading and personal guarantee.
How to apply with Tide
The application process is entirely online with decisions ranging from instant to 48 hours. Funding can be available from the same day up to 3 working days.
- Submit your application through the Tide app or web portal.
- Provide required documents: photo ID, proof of address, bank statements, and financial accounts as required.
- Allow for credit checks and due diligence by Tide and its lending partners.
- Sign digitally once the offer is made to receive funds.
Funding Agent's view on Tide
Tide offers a versatile digital solution for UK SMEs seeking varied finance options alongside business banking. It caters well to start-ups requiring quick unsecured funding and established businesses needing larger loans. Borrowers should carefully consider personal guarantee requirements, the lack of FSCS protection on accounts, and variable costs across partner lenders. Explore further with our eligibility checker and compare options on our financing options page.



