The new Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (ending 30/11/2020) supports SMEs with access to working capital, including loans, overdrafts, invoice finance and asset finance.
This scheme is being backed by the British Business Bank but delivered through commercial lenders, so you would need to contact your own business bank for more details.
This temporary Loan Scheme will support SMEs with access to loans, overdrafts, invoice finance and asset finance of up to £5 million and for up to 6 years.
WHO AND WHAT IS ELIGIBLE?
Supports loans of up to £5 million available on repayment terms of up to six years.
UK Government will provide lenders with a partial guarantee of 80% on each loan (subject to an overall cap per lender).
No guarantee fee for SMEs to access the scheme – lenders will pay a fee to access the scheme.
Interest and fees paid by UK Government for 12 months – this means no upfront costs and lower initial repayments for SMEs.
For overdrafts and invoice finance facilities, term will be up to three years.
Your business must be UK based with turnover of no more than £45 million per year.
Your business must meet the other eligibility criteria explained here
HOW CAN IT BE ACCESSED?
This scheme is now open for applications. There are 40 accredited lenders able to offer the scheme, including all major banks.
To apply, talk to your bank or one of the accredited finance providers as soon as possible, to discuss your business plan.
You can find out the latest on the best way to contact them via their websites. Please note that some branches may currently be shut or be operating reduced opening hours due to Coronavirus.
The full rules of the scheme and a list of accredited lenders is available here