Top Trade Finance Lenders for Small 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 specializes in providing tailored finance solutions to SMEs, offering competitive rates and flexible terms. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £500
- Max Amount: £15,000,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 6–60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Trade Finance, Invoice Finance, Business Loans
- Industries: Retail, Manufacturing, Construction
Pros
- Competitive rates
- Flexible terms
Cons
- Requires good credit history
Sources: https://www.fundingagent.co.uk
2. BNP Paribas
BNP Paribas BNP Paribas is a major bank offering a range of corporate and institutional financial services. It often suits growing SMEs and businesses that need larger loans or asset-backed solutions. It provides offerings that may involve structured or secured finance, with options that could include flexibility in repayment.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £500,000
- Max Amount: £5,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 5–8 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Asset Based Lending, Invoice Finance
- Industries: Corporate Banking, Investment Services
Pros
- Global banking network
- Comprehensive financial services
Cons
- Higher loan amounts required
3. Finastra
Finastra Finastra focuses on financial software solutions primarily for financial institutions and large corporations. It provides digital banking, supply chain finance, and automation tools. Its offerings are suitable for clients needing integrated fintech platforms, often supporting rapid deployment and innovation in banking services.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Supply Chain Finance, Digital Banking
- Industries: Retail Banking, Transaction Banking, Lending
Pros
- Innovative fintech solutions
Cons
- Complex integration process
Sources: https://www.finastra.com/contact/office-locations
4. Marco
Marco Marco offers AI-driven trade finance solutions that assist SMEs with supply chain optimisation and working capital management. It targets businesses seeking innovative technology and fast deployment, often with secured or non-secured options depending on the client’s needs.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: AI-Powered Trade Finance
- Industries: Construction, Supply Chain Solutions
Pros
- Advanced AI technology
Cons
- Limited availability
Sources: https://marcoindustries.co.uk/about-marco/
5. Taulia
Taulia Taulia provides comprehensive working capital management solutions that can improve cash flow and optimise receivables. It often caters to firms with complex supply chains looking to enhance liquidity through digital platforms.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Supply Chain Finance, Working Capital Management
- Industries: Supply Chain Finance, Enterprise Solutions
Pros
- Improves cash flow
Cons
- Service dependent on large network of suppliers
Sources: https://taulia.com/
6. BlueVine
BlueVine BlueVine offers quick access to flexible working capital through facilities like credit lines and invoice factoring. Its services are suitable for small businesses seeking rapid funding with adaptable financing options, often backed by securitised assets.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 4.8%
- Max APR: 99%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Line of Credit, Invoice Factoring
- Industries: Small Business Finance, Working Capital
Pros
- Fast approval process
- Flexible credit options
Cons
- High APR for certain loans
Sources: https://www.eppingflooring.co.uk/bluevine-better-small-business-credit-line/
7. HSBC
HSBC HSBC provides a broad range of financial products including business loans and asset-backed facilities for SMEs and large companies. It is often suitable for businesses seeking quick access to funding via secured or unsecured borrowing, with options that support growth and stability.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Up to 10 years⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Commercial Mortgages
- Industries: Global Banking, Commercial Banking
Pros
- Global presence
- Diverse financing options
Cons
- Stricter credit requirements
Sources: https://www.hsbc.co.uk/business/loans-and-finance/
8. NatWest
NatWest NatWest offers trade finance solutions to support UK businesses with cash flow and risk management. Its programmes are suited for firms looking for secured or flexible credit options that can be tailored to specific needs, often with quick turnaround times.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Trade Finance, Business Loans
- Industries: Retail Banking, Business Banking
Pros
- Customisable solutions
Cons
- Limited to UK market
Sources: https://www.natwest.com/business/trade-finance.html
9. Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Bank Lloyds Bank offers a variety of financial services including secured loans, cash flow facilities, and asset-backed lending to UK businesses. It is often chosen for its widespread branch network and flexible terms suitable for different stages of business growth.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Invoice Finance
- Industries: Retail Banking, Business Banking
Pros
- Strong UK banking presence
Cons
- Interest rates can be high
Sources: https://www.lloydsbank.com/business/commercial-finance.html
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. For top trade finance providers, consider whether a bank offers structured lending or specialist solutions. Brokers can help navigate complex options or tailor custom packages. Assess provider sector expertise, security requirements, and service speed to find the best fit for your business needs.
Conclusion
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 specialisations. Always confirm current costs and terms with the lender; pricing may change. Matching the provider type to your use case is important. Banks typically offer secured, higher-value products. Brokers can connect you to specialised or alternative finance options. Sector-focused or fintech providers often provide faster, more flexible solutions. Always review criteria and ensure your business matches the lender's requirements.
