Best Lenders to Secure a 170k Short Term Loan
For UK franchise buyers and operators, this guide compares loan periods and amounts, APRs, and terms across leading providers, with a focus on eligibility and fit. Amounts that could not be verified are left blank, prices accurate as of 2026-02-12.
Funding Agent Funding Agent acts as a broker providing UK SMEs with access to multiple finance options including unsecured loans and working capital. It is suitable for businesses seeking fast application processing and clear lending terms. The service emphasises quick eligibility matching without requiring collateral, offering flexible repayment plans.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 3–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured business loans, MCA Loans, Working capital
- Industries: UK SME's
Pros
- fastest and easiest application process
- No collateral required
Cons
- lower track record, only trading 1 year
Barclays Barclays provides traditional bank business loans tailored for startups and SMEs. It suits businesses requiring a range of finance types with an emphasis on structured lending and dedicated client support. The bank typically offers flexibility in repayment and loan terms, with assessment based on credit and business viability.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 18%
- Loan Duration: 12–72 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Flexible terms
- Dedicated business support
Cons
- High eligibility requirements
HSBC HSBC offers bank-originated business loans suitable for a broad range of enterprises across the UK. The lender focuses on comprehensive financing solutions including equipment financing with flexible repayment options. HSBC prioritises established businesses with access to global financial resources and a structured application process.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £750,000
- Min APR: 4.5%
- Max APR: 16.5%
- Loan Duration: 6–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Equipment financing
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Competitive rates
- Global presence
Cons
- Complex application process
Lloyds Bank Lloyds Bank provides a range of financial products tailored for business growth, including loans and lines of credit. Suitable for a diverse range of industries, it offers flexible loan terms and personalised service. Collateral requirements vary, with options designed for SMEs focusing on longer-term growth and stability.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 5.5%
- Max APR: 19.9%
- Loan Duration: 3–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Lines of credit
- Industries: Retail, Hospitality, Manufacturing
Pros
- Strong customer service
- Personalized financial advice
Cons
- Higher interest for new businesses
5. Santander UK
Santander UK Santander UK offers business loans and commercial mortgages with flexible terms, suitable for a range of SME financial needs. Its products serve businesses seeking tailored finance options with various repayment schedules. The lender emphasises fintech integration and multiple lending solutions, supporting both short and medium term funding needs.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £2,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 6.9%
- Max APR: 22.5%
- Loan Duration: 6–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Commercial mortgages
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Wide range of finance options
- Strong fintech integrations
Cons
- Limited branch availability
Metro Bank Metro Bank focuses on straightforward business loans with flexible repayment options and no early repayment penalties. It fits SMEs that prefer simple processes and tailored short-term finance. Its products typically support retail and service sectors with flexible underwriting and geographic service limits.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £350,000
- Min APR: 5.9%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Short-term loans, Asset-based lending
- Industries: Retail, Service
Pros
- No early repayment fees
- Quick loan approval
Cons
- Limited to certain geographic areas
NatWest NatWest provides a broad range of business loans with adjustable terms suitable for various industries. It supports businesses looking for reliable finance with online application and broad branch access. Repayment flexibility and working capital options are available, with typical lending based on business strength and credit profile.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 19.5%
- Loan Duration: 1–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Working capital
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Online application process
- Wide branch network
Cons
- High fees for late payments
Clydesdale Bank Clydesdale Bank offers business loans and invoice financing targeting small and medium enterprises. Its lending solutions suit customers seeking regional expertise and flexible payment schedules. It commonly serves retail and agriculture sectors, often requiring tailored collateral arrangements.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £300,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 17%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Invoice financing
- Industries: Retail, Agriculture
Pros
- Regional expertise
- Flexible payment terms
Aldermore Bank Aldermore Bank specialises in clear, transparent lending solutions for UK businesses, notably in real estate and retail sectors. It is suitable for borrowers seeking property development finance and business loan options with personalised service. The lender focuses on straightforward terms and moderate underwriting requirements.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £200,000
- Min APR: 6.5%
- Max APR: 21.5%
- Loan Duration: 3–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Property development finance
- Industries: Real estate, Retail
Pros
- Transparent fee structures
- Personalized service
Shawbrook Bank Shawbrook Bank offers flexible business financing solutions focusing on working capital and short-term loans. It is suited to small businesses looking for adaptable underwriting and confidence in expansion. The lender provides various options with an emphasis on responsiveness and tailored support.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 7%
- Max APR: 25%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Working capital, Short-term loans
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Flexible underwriting
- Focus on small businesses
How to choose
When seeking the best lenders to secure a 170k short term loan, consider how the loan size and APR align with your budget and repayment ability. Evaluate eligibility criteria carefully, including whether collateral or security is required. Balance the need for speed in approval against the flexibility of loan terms offered. Investigate repayment schedules in relation to your business cash flow and seasonal income variations. Review fees, especially early repayment charges, and confirm lender reliability before committing.
Conclusion
Matching the right lender to your needs depends on loan purpose and business profile. Bank lenders often provide stability and a range of products for growth or asset-backed loans. Brokers like Funding Agent can offer faster access to multiple lending options suited for short-term funding without collateral. Specialist lenders may suit niche or high-risk sectors but usually at higher costs. Always confirm up-to-date terms with the lender. Funding Agent remains a good starting point for SMEs comparing finance options for loans around 170 thousand pounds.
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