best lenders to secure a 50k unsecured business 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 2025-12-08.

1. Funding Agent

Funding Agent offers tailored small business finance solutions and quick online access for SMEs. Its focus is on providing straightforward options that suit franchise needs and quick funding. The platform facilitates rapid applications and predictable terms, making it ideal for those seeking simplicity and speed.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £50,000
• Min APR: 6.9%
• Max APR: 11.2%
• Loan Duration: 1-5 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Secured loans
• Industries: General business

Pros

• Fast application process
• Flexible terms

Cons

• No physical branches

Sources: Funding Agents 50k Unsecured Business Loans

2. Lloyds Bank

Lloyds Bank offers a wide range of financial products including unsecured business loans. Its services are suitable for UK SMEs seeking reliable options, often secured on assets or cash flow. The process supports quick access and flexible repayment structures.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £50,000
• Min APR: 11.2%
• Max APR: 11.2%
• Loan Duration: 1-5 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Secured loans
• Industries: Legal, Manufacturing, Retail, Real estate

Pros

• Established financial institution
• Wide range of services

Cons

• Higher APR on smaller loans

Sources: https://lloydstsb.co.uk/business/business-loans.html

3. Clifton Private Finance

Clifton Private Finance offers specialised financial solutions including business and bridging loans. Its services focus on property purchase and refinancing, often secured on assets. It caters to UK SMEs looking for flexibility and tailored terms in property finance.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £50,000
• Max Amount: £200,000
• Min APR: 7%
• Max APR: 20%
• Loan Duration: 1-5 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Bridging loans
• Industries: Property, Finance

Pros

• Tailored financial solutions
• Focus on property finance

Cons

• Higher rates for unsecured loans

Sources: https://www.cliftonpf.co.uk/business-loans/

4. Fleximize

Fleximize offers flexible funding solutions suitable for SMEs with fast approval processes. Its services support flexible repayment options and quick access to funds, making it effective for cash flow management and growth.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £10,000
• Max Amount: £500,000
• Min APR: 10.8%
• Max APR: 14.4%
• Loan Duration: 12-60 months⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Secured loans
• Industries: Retail, Services

Pros

• Flexible repayment
• Fast approval process

Cons

• Higher APR for short-term loans

Sources: https://fleximize.com

5. NatWest

NatWest offers a broad range of business banking loans, including options for SMEs seeking quick and flexible financing. Their solutions often include security on assets and diverse repayment plans, suitable for various growth needs.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £100,000
• Min APR: 10%
• Max APR: 15%
• Loan Duration: 1-7 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Secured loans
• Industries: Agriculture, Corporate, Commercial

Pros

• Comprehensive customer support
• Flexible repayment options

Cons

• Fees for early repayment

Sources: https://www.natwest.com/business/loans-and-finance.html

6. Barclays

Barclays offers business loans and financial products suitable for various sectors, with flexible terms and quick access features. Its services are geared toward SMEs seeking quick, reliable funding and customised repayment options.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £100,000
• Min APR: 11.2%
• Max APR: 14.9%
• Loan Duration: 1-10 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Secured loans
• Industries: Agriculture, Real estate, Healthcare

Pros

• Expert financial advice
• Flexible terms

Cons

• Stringent eligibility criteria

Sources: https://www.barclays.co.uk/business-banking/borrow/loans/

7. Love Finance

Love Finance provides quick, accessible loans with simple application processes for SMEs. Its focus is on fast funding and flexible amounts suitable for various business needs. The service is designed for those who require reliable, straightforward finance options.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £750,000
• Min APR: 6.9%
• Max APR: 15%
• Loan Duration: 1-5 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Secured loans
• Industries: General business

Pros

• Quick funding times
• Flexible loan amounts

Cons

• Limited to SMEs

Sources: https://www.lovefinance.co.uk

8. Funding Options

Funding Options offers a marketplace connecting businesses with finance providers for customised funding. It supports SMEs seeking transparent and fast access to business loans and other financial solutions. Its platform is brokered to facilitate connections rather than direct lending.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £5,000
• Max Amount: £50,000
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Business loans, Commercial mortgages
• Industries: Multiple industries

Pros

• Wide range of lenders
• No obligation quotes

Cons

• No directly provided loans

Sources: http://funding-options.co.uk

9. Merchantsavvy

Merchantsavvy offers comparison tools and insight into UK business loans with a focus on competitive APRs and flexible terms. It is suited for SMEs looking for easy comparisons and broad options. The platform helps users evaluate different lenders efficiently.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £500
• Max Amount: £15,000,000
• Min APR: 8.9%
• Max APR: 24.9%
• Loan Duration: 1-5 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Secured loans, Unsecured loans
• Industries: Various

Pros

• Comprehensive comparisons
• Multiple lender options

Cons

• Doesn't provide loans

Sources: https://www.merchantsavvy.co.uk/business-finance/business-loans/unsecured-business-loans/

10. Gov.UK Start Up Loan

Gov.UK Start Up Loan provides government-backed start-up funding for new businesses, often aimed at entrepreneurs and early-stage ventures. The program offers accessible, affordable financing options with flexible repayment plans to support business growth and innovation. It is particularly suited for start-ups requiring initial capital with manageable terms.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £500
• Max Amount: £25,000
• Min APR: 6%
• Max APR: 6%
• Loan Duration: 1-5 years⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Start-up loans
• Industries: Start-ups

Pros

• Government-backed
• Low interest rates

Cons

• Exclusively for start-ups

Sources: https://www.gov.uk/apply-start-up-loan

How to choose

When selecting a lender for a 50k unsecured business loan, consider the lender type and your specific needs. Bank-based lenders typically offer straightforward terms and quick decisions. Brokers can help access a wide range of options, often including alternative or specialised lenders. Assess your repayment capacity, interest rates, fees, and flexibility to find the best fit. It is important to review eligibility criteria and early repayment provisions before making a decision. Matching the provider to your sector and financial profile ensures a more suitable arrangement.

Conclusion

Matching the right lender depends on your needs. Banks generally suit those seeking quick, straightforward funding. Brokers can connect you to multiple options, including specialised lenders. Sector-specific or asset-backed providers may offer tailored solutions. Always verify current costs and terms directly with the lender. Funding Agent is a strong choice for SMEs that want quick comparisons across multiple options. Other providers suit larger amounts, asset-backed needs, or sector specialisms. Always confirm current costs and terms with the lender; pricing may change.