Funding Circle is one of the UK's largest and most established alternative business lenders. Founded in 2010, the company is listed on the London Stock Exchange and has lent over £15 billion to small businesses globally. In the UK, Funding Circle focuses on term business loans for established SMEs. Unlike Iwoca which offers revolving credit, Funding Circle offers fixed-term business loans — a set amount, fixed monthly repayments, and a clear end date. Funding Circle Business Loan at a Glance 2026
Source: Funding Circle website, April 2026. Interest rates depend on your business profile and loan term. Always verify current rates at fundingcircle.com before applying. Funding Circle Eligibility CriteriaFunding Circle has stricter eligibility requirements than some alternative lenders. Key requirements include: minimum 2 years of trading history with filed accounts, minimum annual turnover (check current threshold at fundingcircle.com), and a personal guarantee from the business director. Funding Circle primarily lends to limited companies. Sole traders may have more limited options — Iwoca or Tide business loans may be more accessible. Funding Circle Pros and Cons
Our Verdict Funding Circle is best for established limited companies with 2+ years of trading that need a straightforward fixed-term business loan of £10,000 or more. The combination of FCA regulation, LSE listing, and track record make it one of the more credible alternative lenders. For newer businesses, sole traders, or those needing smaller or more flexible amounts, Iwoca or Tide business loans are more accessible alternatives. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow much can I borrow from Funding Circle? Funding Circle offers business loans from £10,000 to £500,000. The amount you can borrow depends on your business's financial performance, trading history, and the purpose of the loan. Businesses typically need at least 2 years of filed accounts to be eligible. Is Funding Circle safe? Yes. Funding Circle is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is listed on the London Stock Exchange. It has been operating since 2010 and has funded over £15 billion to small businesses globally. What are the interest rates at Funding Circle? Funding Circle's interest rates depend on your business profile, the loan amount, and the loan term. Rates are fixed for the duration of the loan. Always check the current rates directly at fundingcircle.com as they vary and change regularly. Does Funding Circle require a personal guarantee? Yes. Funding Circle typically requires a personal guarantee from the business director for most loans. This means if the business cannot repay the loan, the director is personally liable for the debt. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always verify rates and eligibility directly with the provider before applying. Warning: Late repayment can cause you serious money problems. For help, go to moneyhelper.org.uk |
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