Triodos Bank UK operates as an ethical bank focused on lending to organisations that deliver positive social, environmental, or cultural impact. Since its establishment in 1980 and UK operation commencement in 1995, the bank caters primarily to charities, social enterprises, renewable energy projects, and sustainable SMEs. It offers secured and customised finance solutions ranging from £25,000 up to £20 million. This lender may suit entities aligned with ethical mandates and those requiring specialist support in sectors like renewable energy and social housing. For broader lender insights, refer to our Triodos Bank SME lending reviews and business loans overview.
Key features of Triodos Bank UK
The bank operates a relationship-driven model offering sector-specific expertise and ethical finance solutions. Borrowers receive dedicated account management and access to combined finance facilities tailored to organisational impact goals.
- Ethical lending limited to organisations with a demonstrable positive impact; see our ethical lending guide.
- Dedicated UK relationship managers provide ongoing support; explore relationship management tools.
- Allows combining term loans, revolving credit, and bridging facilities under one umbrella for comprehensive finance; details on credit facilities.
- Specialist expertise in renewable energy, social housing, culture, and care sectors; see our green finance and social housing loans resources.
- Deposit-taking and banking services authorised by FCA and PRA; refer to FCA authorisation information.
Funding eligibility
You may qualify for Triodos Bank funding if your organisation has at least two years of trading history or proven track record within the management team, especially for special purpose vehicles. Typical borrowers have turnovers ranging from £500,000 to £50 million. Eligibility requires UK registration as a charity, social enterprise, CIC, co-operative or a mission-led SME. Certain sectors such as fossil fuels, arms, tobacco, gambling, adult entertainment, speculative property, and intensive livestock are excluded. For a comprehensive understanding, consult our business loan qualification guide and eligibility checker.
Loan options
Triodos Bank UK provides a variety of secured loan types suited to differing organisational needs. These loans include facilities designed for business growth, short-term needs, renewable energy projects, and social housing development. Below are some common loan options:
- Bridging / Short-Term Impact Loan: Amounts from £25,000 to £2,000,000 with terms of 3 to 24 months. Interest typically Base Rate plus 4.0% to 8.0%. This loan bridges funding gaps pending grants or sales. More details at bridging loans for small businesses.
- Revolving Credit Facility / Working Capital Line: Offers £250,000 to £5,000,000 loans with terms from 1 to 5 years, renewable annually. Interest rates range from Base Rate plus 3.0% to 7.0%. Suitable for managing seasonal cash flow. See revolving credit loans.
- Secured Business Loan / Commercial Mortgage: Loan sizes from £150,000 up to £20,000,000 with terms between 3 and 25 years. Interest rates typically Base Rate plus 2.5% to 6.0%, variable. Arranged for property acquisitions or large projects. Learn more via commercial mortgages.
- Renewable Energy Project Finance: Large-scale loans between £500,000 and £20,000,000 with five to 18 years terms. Interest charged at Base Rate plus 2.0% to 5.0%. Designed to align with project lifecycles in renewables. Details at renewable energy project finance.
- Social Housing Development Loan: Loans ranging from £250,000 to £10,000,000 for 2 to 15 years. Interest rates from Base Rate plus 2.5% to 5.5%. Supports affordable housing development aligned with sector standards. More on social housing development loans.
How to apply
The application process is conducted offline through a relationship manager and involves substantial documentation and due diligence. Expect a drawn-out credit approval process reflecting the bespoke nature of these loans.
- Submit an initial enquiry via the bank's online form or direct contact; see the application form.
- Provide required documents including three years of audited accounts, management accounts, forecasts, and impact metrics; consult our document checklist.
- Credit assessment and impact due diligence typically take between 4 and 12 weeks; explore expected loan decision timelines.
- On approval, agreements are signed and drawdowns arranged usually within 5 to 10 working days after all conditions are met.
Funding Agent's view on Triodos Bank UK
Triodos Bank UK occupies a niche in the UK lending landscape. Its ethical mandate and specialist knowledge suit charities, social enterprises, and SMEs committed to sustainability and positive impact. However, the bank's stringent impact criteria, secured lending focus, and longer processing times may not meet the needs of mainstream businesses or those requiring rapid, unsecured borrowing. For further loan comparisons and eligibility guidance, visit our eligibility checker and business loan options.
