From the 6th April 2026 the .Start Up Loans fixed interest rate for new applications is changing to 7.5%. Eligibility criteria for a first Start Up Loan is being extended to businesses that have been trading for up to 60 months.

The North West's business funding partner

Finance North West lets startups and SMEs access fair finance that strengthens our regional economy.

Business Finance North West
Business Finance North West

Impact-driven business finance

For over 20 years, our group of not-for-profit CDFIs has helped businesses across the North access the finance they couldn’t find elsewhere.

Not because their ideas weren’t strong. But because traditional lenders said no to founders without assets, long trading histories or the “right” postcode.

We’re here to change that.

Business Finance North West

Finance should open doors

We believe talent exists everywhere. But opportunity doesn’t.

That’s why we put financial inclusion at the heart of everything we do offering fair, flexible finance to the people mainstream lenders often overlook.

Because when small businesses grow, they do more than turn a profit. They create jobs. Strengthen supply chains. And spark momentum that benefits everyone.

Trusted across the North of England

£ 129.5m

Invested directly into small businesses

£ 518m

Generated for the regions economy

17,610

Jobs created or safeguarded.

Your local finance experts

North West team
Business Finance North West
Simon Truby Head of NW region
Business Finance North West
Ronnie Harris Investment Manager
Business Finance North West
Tim Burt Senior Investment Manager
Simon Jackson
Director of Investments
Business Finance North West
Stephen Waud CEO

Real North West Success Stories

See how we’re helping create jobs, fuel growth, and strengthen communities across the region.

Get your free Impact Report

We work better together

By partnering with trusted organisations, we reach more businesses and boost our impact where it matters most.

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