Best Lenders to Secure a 50k Business Line of Credit
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 acts as a broker providing access to a range of UK business finance products. It is typically suited for SMEs seeking flexible funding options without the need for collateral. The platform focuses on speed and straightforward application processes to help match borrowers with appropriate lenders.
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 specialises in peer-to-peer lending, connecting investors directly to small and medium businesses. It is generally suited for SMEs looking for unsecured loans with competitive terms. The platform offers moderate processing times and options focusing on credit quality standards.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 6-60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Retail, Construction, Healthcare
Pros
- Quick application process
- No early payment fees
Cons
- Higher rates for lower credit scores
Iwoca provides flexible lending solutions tailored to small businesses, including credit lines and loans. Its products are typically suitable for SME franchises requiring rapid funding with flexible repayment models. Collateral is generally not required, aiming to offer accessible credit with straightforward application steps.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £200,000
- Min APR: 12%
- Max APR: 48%
- Loan Duration: 1-12 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Lines of Credit, Business Loans
- Industries: E-commerce, Hospitality, Professional Services
Pros
- Flexible loan terms
- Quick access to funds
Cons
- Higher APR for shorter loans
Barclays is a traditional bank offering a broad range of financial products including business loans and lines of credit. It is suited for franchise buyers and businesses needing secured or unsecured financing with flexible term options. Barclays loans often involve detailed eligibility criteria and offer multiple repayment structures.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 3.9%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 3-120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Finance, Retail, Agriculture
Pros
- Wide range of products
- Reputable bank
Cons
- Strict credit requirements
Tide is a digital-first provider offering credit lines and financial services to SMEs and freelancers. It fits well with businesses wanting quick and efficient online onboarding and account management. Tide emphasises flexible credit products without reliance on physical branch access.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £500
- Max Amount: £150,000
- Min APR: 8.9%
- Max APR: 29.9%
- Loan Duration: 3-36 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Freelancing, Startups
Pros
- Digital onboarding
- Efficient management tools
NatWest provides various lending and credit facilities designed for SME needs. It suits franchise buyers requiring reliable bank finance with diverse term lengths and structures. NatWest generally requires standard eligibility checks and supports multiple industry sectors.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £750,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 18%
- Loan Duration: 6-120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Retail, Real Estate, Energy
Pros
- Established financial institution
- Wide range of services
Cons
- Stringent eligibility criteria
Lloyds Bank delivers business loans and credit options suitable for various business sizes and sectors. It generally meets the needs of franchises requiring flexible finance with often structured repayments. The bank typically reviews creditworthiness and may offer secured or unsecured options.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 4.9%
- Max APR: 16.9%
- Loan Duration: 6-60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Manufacturing, Healthcare, Technology
Pros
- Strong customer service
- Diverse financial products
HSBC UK offers a variety of financing solutions tailored to businesses needing business loans and lines of credit. It fits franchises seeking established international banking support with multiple financing options. HSBC often requires comprehensive eligibility review and may focus on creditworthiness and business longevity.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 3.5%
- Max APR: 14.5%
- Loan Duration: 12-96 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Transport, Pharmaceuticals, Education
Pros
- Global reach
- Variety of products
Cons
- Complex application process
Metro Bank focuses on providing flexible financing solutions for local businesses and SMEs. It suits franchise buyers prioritising convenient access and rapid approvals. Loan options generally balance flexibility with credit assessment typical of UK banks.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 4.5%
- Max APR: 19.9%
- Loan Duration: 12-60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Retail, Technology, Services
Pros
- Convenient service
- Fast approval
Cons
- Limited geographical presence
10. Santander UK
Santander UK provides a broad range of business financing options including lines of credit for SMEs. Its products suit franchise operators who need adaptable funding with tailored support. Application and approval typically involves detailed credit assessments and flexible repayment plans.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £300,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 18%
- Loan Duration: 1-72 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Hospitality, Retail, Automotive
Pros
- Tailored business solutions
- Strong customer support
How to choose
Consider your funding needs for a 50k business line of credit by evaluating loan sizes, APRs, and repayment flexibility. Check eligibility criteria carefully and assess how quickly funds are needed. Balance the benefits of brokered access for wider options against the stability of traditional banks. Factor in collateral requirements and the lender’s experience with your industry. Review potential fees and early repayment terms to suit your business cash flow and seasonal income variations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lender depends on your business type and financing needs. Banks often offer established products suitable for larger or secured loans, while brokers like Funding Agent can provide faster access to varied unsecured options. Specialist lenders may suit niche sectors or flexible terms. Funding Agent is a solid choice for SMEs seeking quick comparisons on around 50 thousand pounds loan options. Always verify the latest terms directly with providers before committing.
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