Best Lenders to Secure a 190k 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 focuses on providing SME business loans through a straightforward broker platform. It suits franchise buyers and operators seeking a quick way to compare finance options with clear eligibility criteria. The platform emphasises speed, a simple application process, and unsecured lending options.
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
Funding Circle is a peer-to-peer platform specialising in business loans for SMEs. It is suitable for franchise buyers looking for straightforward term loans with fixed repayments. The service offers a direct lending model with flexible terms and no early repayment penalties.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 3–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Peer-to-Peer Loans
- Industries: Retail, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Pros
- Fast application process
- No early repayment fees
Cons
- Higher APR for lower credit scores
British Business Bank offers government-backed finance initiatives to enhance SME lending markets. It is tailored to franchise buyers and SMEs requiring access to a wide range of business finance products. Loans may involve various security requirements with options for flexible repayment plans.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £25,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 2.5%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 1–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Equity Finance
- Industries: Manufacturing, Agriculture
Pros
- Government-backed
- Wide range of financial products
Cons
- Complex application process
RateSetter specialises in peer-to-peer lending with a focus on personal and smaller business loans. It suits franchise buyers seeking flexible term loans with competitive rates. The platform offers straightforward application and investment-based lending options, generally unsecured.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £35,000
- Min APR: 3.9%
- Max APR: 16%
- Loan Duration: 1–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Personal Loans, Investment
- Industries: Various industries
Pros
- Easy online application
- Good customer support
Barclays Business offers a full suite of business banking products aimed at cash flow management and growth finance. It is suitable for franchise buyers needing bank-backed loans with flexible terms and options for secured and unsecured lending. The provider is known for its established reputation and broader business services.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 6.5%
- Max APR: 18.9%
- Loan Duration: 6–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: Various industries
Pros
- Reputable bank
- Wide range of services
6. Santander UK
Santander UK delivers tailored financial products including loans and business accounts for SMEs. It suits franchise buyers seeking bank loans with options for flexible terms and various repayment structures. Emphasis is on comprehensive service with established credibility.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 6.9%
- Max APR: 23.7%
- Loan Duration: 12–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Merchant Services
- Industries: Various sectors
Pros
- Flexible terms
- Reputable institution
Cons
- Lengthy application process
NatWest Group delivers customized financial products including loans and overdrafts designed for SMEs. It fits franchise buyers seeking accessible credit solutions with some flexibility in terms and loan structures. The provider offers personal service and a variety of loan types.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 7.8%
- Max APR: 22.9%
- Loan Duration: 6–72 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Overdraft
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Personalized service
- Various loan types available
Cons
- Higher rates for small loans
Lloyds Bank provides comprehensive business banking and lending services, including secured and unsecured loans. It suits franchise buyers requiring reliable bank financing paired with flexible repayment options. The bank is well-established with extensive product offerings.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 5.9%
- Max APR: 16.9%
- Loan Duration: 1–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Commercial Mortgages
- Industries: Various
Pros
- Comprehensive services
- Long history of success
Cons
- Application process can be slow
HSBC UK offers a broad range of business finance solutions including loans and invoice financing. It is aimed at franchise buyers and SMEs looking for reliable bank funding with multiple product options. HSBC focuses on flexibility and global resources for business lending.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 5.5%
- Max APR: 18%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Invoice Financing
- Industries: Multiple industries
Pros
- Global bank with extensive resources
- Diverse loan products
Cons
- Higher eligibility criteria
Metro Bank offers a variety of banking and loan products focused on customer service and accessibility. It is suitable for franchise buyers needing flexible short-term loans with attentive support. The bank is known for extended service hours and local community presence.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £2,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 7.5%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 6–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans
- Industries: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare
Pros
- Extended opening hours
- Customer-focused service
Cons
- Limited geographic presence
How to choose
When securing a 190k short term loan, focus on lenders that match your loan size and budget. Consider the loan term, APR, and repayment flexibility important to your franchise cash flow. Check if security or collateral is needed and how that fits your asset position. Speed of approval can be crucial for short-term needs. Also, review eligibility criteria and fees including early repayment charges before applying. Lastly, assess whether a brokered platform or direct bank lender best suits your financial situation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lender depends on your specific needs and loan purpose. Banks generally offer comprehensive products suited for larger or secured loans, while brokers can provide faster access to multiple options. Specialist lenders may better serve niche or unsecured financing. Funding Agent is a strong choice for quick comparisons when seeking a 190 thousand pounds loan. Always confirm terms directly with the provider to ensure the best fit for your franchise.