Best R&D Tax Relief Providers for UK Businesses in the UK

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 2025-10-09.

1. Funding Agent

Funding Agent Funding Agent is a prominent provider of financial solutions with a focus on business loans. Its offerings are suited for UK SMEs seeking straightforward funding options, flexibility, and quick access, often secured by business assets. It helps companies manage cash flow, finance growth, or fund specific projects with standard repayment options.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Business Loans, R&D Tax Relief
• Industries: Various

Pros

• Tailored financial solutions
• Specialized in innovation funding

Cons

• Limited information available publicly

Sources: https://fundingagent.co.uk

2. ForrestBrown

ForrestBrown ForrestBrown offers consultancy services mainly focused on R&D tax credits. It supports innovative UK companies with claims management and maximising benefits. Its flexibility helps fast-growing firms access financial incentives efficiently.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: R&D Tax Credits
• Industries: Various

Pros

• Expert in R&D tax credits
• Comprehensive consultancy services

Cons

• Focused mainly on R&D tax sector

Sources: https://forrestbrown.co.uk/

3. Leyton

Leyton Leyton focuses on innovation funding and incentives. It supports UK businesses seeking to leverage government schemes. The firm offers tailored advice, often helping firms optimise R&D tax claims and grants efficiently.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Innovation Funding
• Industries: Various

Pros

• Largest consultancy in innovation funding

Cons

• Specialized focus may limit appeal

Sources: https://leyton.com/uk/

4. Grant Thornton

Grant Thornton Grant Thornton provides consultancy and advisory services, mainly focused on supporting business growth. It aids UK firms with funding strategies, including R&D incentives. The firm's expertise helps optimise access to financial benefits for various sectors.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Advisory Services, Tax Services
• Industries: Automotive, Consumer markets, Financial services, Industrials and manufacturing, Healthcare, Technology

Pros

• Wide range of business services

Cons

• Complex services may require oversight

Sources: https://www.grantthornton.co.uk/industries/

5. RSM UK

RSM UK RSM UK offers audit, tax, and consulting services, often supporting companies with growth strategies. It provides tailored financial advice and industry-specific support for UK middle-market businesses, helping them access incentives such as R&D schemes.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £2,000,000
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Audit, Tax, Consulting services
• Industries: Industrials, Manufacturing, Middle-market businesses

Pros

• Comprehensive middle-market support

Cons

• Client focus may not suit all businesses

Sources: https://www.rsmuk.com/what-we-offer/industries

6. Ryan Innovation Funding

Ryan Innovation Funding Ryan Funding focuses on supporting innovative firms with R&D tax relief and innovation grants. It acts as a broker, connecting businesses with suitable funding sources. The firm offers quick access and flexible options for growth and R&D projects.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: R&D Tax Relief, Innovation Funding
• Industries: Various

Pros

• Specialist in innovation funding solutions

Cons

• Potentially complex processes to navigate

Sources: https://innovationfunding.com/

7. Easy R&D

Easy R&D Easy R&D offers specialised R&D Tax Relief services. It focuses on helping UK businesses access funding quickly and efficiently. Its flexible approach supports firms in claiming grants and incentives, often using tailored advice and streamlined processes.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: R&D Tax Relief
• Industries: Manufacturing, Software Development, Engineering, Food and Drink Production, Construction, Healthcare

Pros

• Focus on unlocking funding for innovation

Cons

• Limited to R&D sectors

Sources: https://easyrnd.co.uk/

8. Source Advisors

Source Advisors Source Advisors specialises in R&D tax relief and incentive solutions. They connect UK businesses with funding programs and offer tailored support through a team with industry expertise. Their services are suitable for companies seeking custom tax solutions and strategic incentives.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £0
• Max Amount: £50,000
• Min APR: 11.2%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: R&D Tax Relief, Tax Solutions
• Industries: Various

Pros

• Tailored tax solutions

Cons

• Focused on tax incentives
• Limited maximum loan amount

Sources: https://sourceadvisors.co.uk/

9. BDO UK

BDO UK BDO UK is a professional services firm that provides financial and advisory support. It assists businesses with strategic planning and funding, including R&D schemes. BDO's broad expertise helps optimise financial incentives for growth and innovation.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £50,000
• Min APR: 11.2%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Audit, Tax, Advisory services
• Industries: Energy, Financial Services, Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing

Pros

• Global presence
• Wide range of services

Cons

• May not cater to very small businesses

Sources: https://www.bdo.co.uk/en-gb/industries

10. DJH UK

DJH UK DJH is a UK-based chartered accountancy firm offering a range of financial services. It supports owner-managed businesses with tailored advice and assistance. The firm helps clients access funding and optimise financial planning for growth and stability.

Loan Details

• Min Amount: £1,000
• Max Amount: £0
• Min APR: 0%
• Max APR: 0%
• Loan Duration: Unknown⌛

Services & Industries

• Finance Types: Accountancy, Business Advisory
• Industries: Owner-Managed Businesses, Manufacturing

Pros

• Tailored services for SMEs

Cons

• Geographically constrained

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

How to choose

Match loan size and APR to your budget, check eligibility, and balance speed against flexibility. Consider how repayments fit your franchise cash flow and seasonality. Review lender criteria, fees, and early repayment terms before applying. Evaluating your specific needs can help select the right provider, whether a bank, broker, or specialist. Consider the type of funding you need, such as secured loans or uncollateralised options. Comparing features and support services ensures you find the best fit for your business objectives.

Conclusion

Matching the right provider depends on your funding needs. Banks often offer larger, collateral-backed loans suited for property or equipment finance. Brokers can access a range of loan options quickly, including unsecured and faster funds. Specialist providers focus on sectors like innovation or tax credits and often have tailored solutions. 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.