10 Small Business Loans for Startups in the UK That You Need to Know About

Thinking about getting your startup off the ground, but your wallet is emptier than a Netflix cue in 2019? Fear not, brave entrepreneur! We've got the lowdown on the top 10 small business loans in the UK that can turn your dreams into reality—without having to sell a kidney.

1. Start Up Loans from The British Business Bank

Imagine government support that's actually helpful. Start Up Loans are government-backed and offer up to £25,000 with a fixed interest rate of 6% per annum. You also get 12 months of free mentoring. Yes, someone to tell you your baby is ugly—but in a constructive way.

2. Funding Circle

Funding Circle is like Tinder for businesses and investors, minus the awkward small talk. They offer loans from £10,000 to £500,000, with interest rates starting at 1.9%. Approval time? Usually within 24 hours. Swipe right to get funded!

3. HSBC Startup Loans

HSBC offers loans up to £25,000 for startups, with flexible repayment options and competitive interest rates. Plus, you get access to their "Knowledge Centre"—basically Hogwarts for entrepreneurs.

4. NatWest Small Business Loan

NatWest offers loans from £1,000 to £50,000 with fixed rates and terms from 1 to 10 years. And if your application gets approved online, funds could be in your account the next working day. It's like Amazon Prime, but for money.

5. Barclays Business Loan

Barclays, the bank that’s been around since dinosaurs used cheques, offers loans up to £100,000 with fixed interest rates. They also have a cool loan calculator to help you figure out what you can afford. Spoiler alert: Not that yacht.

6. Lloyds Bank Business Loans

Lloyds offers business loans starting from £1,000 to £50,000 with flexible terms and competitive rates. Plus, they throw in free online tools to help you manage your finances. Think of it as a financial Swiss Army knife.

7. Virgin StartUp Loans

Who better to fund your startup than a guy who literally started from scratch? Virgin StartUp loans offer between £500 and £25,000 with a fixed interest rate of 6% per annum. They also provide access to a network of mentors and events. Richard Branson not included.

8. Aldermore Business Loans

Aldermore offers unsecured business loans ranging from £50,000 to £500,000. With a quick and easy application process, they’re perfect for those who need to move fast. Just don’t run with scissors.

9. Metro Bank Business Loans

Metro Bank offers up to £25,000 with flexible terms and no early repayment fees. Plus, they’re dog-friendly—which is nice, because who can resist cute puppies?

10. Esme Loans

Esme Loans, owned by NatWest, offers loans from £10,000 to £250,000. With interest rates as low as 4.45%, it’s like getting money from your rich uncle, only less awkward.