Business loans for women
Running a business as a woman in the UK is rising - women now launch over 150,000 businesses yearly - but funding remains a key barrier. Business loans for women can support growth, cash flow, or new ventures. Funding Options by Tide helps thousands of UK founders find finance that fits their needs.
What are business loans for women and how they work
What are business loans for women?
Business loans for women are funding solutions tailored to support female entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey. While they function in the same way as standard business loans - providing capital that must be repaid with interest - they’re often designed to address the unique challenges women face when accessing finance.
Whether you're starting out, scaling a growing company, or navigating a short-term cash flow gap, business loans for women can offer fast, flexible support. Some lenders may provide additional mentoring, networking, or guidance alongside funding, particularly for first-time founders or underrepresented groups.
At Funding Options by Tide, we help women-led businesses across the UK access a wide range of lending products - from unsecured business loans and merchant cash advances, to government-backed startup finance and asset-based solutions.
Common types of loans available
Startup loans
Government-backed startup loans of up to £25,000 are available for new businesses, with fixed interest rates and mentoring included.
Unsecured business loans
Ideal for businesses without assets to offer as collateral. These loans are based on turnover, trading history, and creditworthiness.
Secured business loans
Larger loans secured against property, equipment, or other business assets, often with lower interest rates.
Revolving credit facilities
Flexible lines of credit that you can draw from and repay as needed - useful for managing short-term cash flow.
Merchant cash advances
Repay your loan based on a percentage of your future card sales. This suits retail or eCommerce businesses with regular card turnover.
How does Funding Options work?
Tell us how much you need
We’ll ask a few questions about your business and the reason for your loan.
Get quotes instantly
Our smart technology will compare quotes from up to 120+ lenders to help you find the ideal business loan.
Apply for a Business Loan 🎉
We'll be there to guide you through every step of the process.
Why choose Funding Options by Tide?
Funding Options by Tide helps UK SMEs find fast, tailored business finance by connecting them with over 120 trusted lenders. Backed by Tide and FCA-regulated, the service is free and easy to use.
Compare 120+ lenders
Access a wide range of trusted lenders: from high street banks to alternative finance providers.
No fees or obligations
Our service is completely free to use. You’re in control of who you borrow from.
Fast, personalised results
Get real-time matches based on your business profile and funding needs.
Expert support when you need it
Our team is here to help — by phone, chat, or email.
Trusted by over 21,000 customers
Estimate your costs today
If you're ready to take your business to the next level, use our business loans calculator to get an idea of what you can afford.
Want to understand the cost of your loan?
Use our business loan calculator below to find out how much you can borrow to take your business to the next level.
Calculations are indicative only and intended as a guide only. The figures calculated are not a statement of the actual repayments that will be charged on any actual loan and do not constitute a loan offer.
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Financial product information
Representative example*
• 7.63% APR Representative based on a loan of £50,000 repayable over 24 months.
• Monthly repayment of £2,252.94. The total amount payable is £54,070.56
*Some lenders may apply fees during the application process, please note that these are set and provided by these entities.
Annual Percentage Rates
Rates from 2.75% APR
Repayment period
1 month to 30 years terms
Benefits of business loans for women
Tailored support: some lenders actively promote funding for female-led businesses
Flexible terms: options to suit both new and established companies
Confidence to grow: access to capital can unlock growth opportunities
Better financial planning: spread the cost of investment over manageable repayments
Access to mentoring and networks: some programmes offer non-financial support too
Who is eligible for a business loan?
Eligibility varies by lender and loan type, but typically includes:
UK-based and registered business (or intent to start one)
18 years or older
good personal or business credit score
valid business plan and trading history (if applicable)
Startup loans often require a solid business plan but no prior trading history.
Support schemes and grants for women
British Business Bank - Start Up Loans
NatWest and Coutts - Back Her Business
Enterprise Nation - Female Founder initiatives
The Prince’s Trust - Women in Business programme
Women in Innovation Awards - UKRI funding for female-led STEM businesses
Grants don’t require repayment but are usually competitive and limited in scope. Loans offer broader access to funding for a wider range of business types.
A fictitious example of how it works
Priya, retail founder in Manchester:
Priya launched a sustainable clothing line from home. With a strong online presence but limited capital, she secured a £15,000 unsecured loan through Funding Options by Tide. The funding helped her lease a pop-up retail unit, hire part-time help, and scale her marketing. She’s now planning to expand into permanent premises.
Learn more about business loans for women
Are there loans specifically for women in the UK?
Not legally, but many lenders and government schemes actively support women entrepreneurs.
Do I need a business plan to apply?
For startup loans, yes. For other types, it depends on the lender.
Can I get a loan with a poor credit score?
Yes, but terms may be less favourable. Some lenders offer funding based on cash flow, not credit score.
How quickly can I get funding?
Depending on the lender, you could receive funds in 24–72 hours after approval.
Please note that the information above is not intended to be financial advice. You should seek independent financial advice before making any decisions about your financial future.
It’s important to remember that all loans and credit agreements come with risks. These risks include non-payment and late-payment of the agreed repayment plan, which could affect your business credit score and impact your ability to find future funding. Always read the terms and conditions of every loan or credit agreement before you proceed. Contact us for support if you ever face difficulties making your repayments.
Funding Options, now part of Tide, helps UK firms access business finance, working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. Funding Options are a credit broker and do not provide loans directly. All finance and quotes are subject to status and income. Applicants must be aged 18 and over and terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Funding Options can introduce applicants to a number of providers based on the applicants' circumstances and creditworthiness. Funding Options will receive a commission or finder’s fee for effecting such finance introductions.
Joe Morley
Head of Unsecured Lending
Joe has worked in the alternative lending space since 2015. During this time he has helped hundreds of SMEs access millions in essential funding ranging from long-term asset-backed lending to short-term unsecured revolving credit lines and beyond. In his role, Joe manages and supports a large team of Credit Finance specialists.