bizbritain guides
The guide library
Every article we’ve published, newest first. Filter by topic or search for the question in front of you. Cited, dated, and quietly updated when policy or rates change.
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Growth Guarantee Scheme lenders: what to do when your bank says no
Your bank said no? Other Growth Guarantee Scheme lenders decide for themselves. How to find one, what changes when you switch, and how to stay safe.
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How lenders decide how much your business can borrow
How much can my business borrow? It depends on what you can repay from profit. What lenders check, how the term changes the cost, and the typical £50,000 ask.
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How to buy a business that isn't for sale: finding and approaching the owner
You can buy a business that isn't for sale. Where off-market businesses come from, how to approach the owner and what to have ready before you talk price.
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Business buying programmes and acquisition mentors: what a lender still needs
A business buying programme can teach you the process. It cannot lend you the money. What these courses offer, and what a lender still needs from you.
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Buying an independent business as a franchisee: consent, rebranding and funding
Buying an independent business as a franchisee? Check your agreement, get the franchisor's consent in writing and plan the rebrand before you arrange finance.
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Invoice finance or a business loan? How to fund customers who pay slowly
Invoice finance or a business loan? If big customers pay in 60 or 90 days, here is how to choose, what lenders check, and what a 60-day cap may change.
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How much does it cost to employ someone? The full figure and how to fund it
How much does it cost to employ someone? Salary, 15% employer National Insurance and pension, then the months before the hire pays back. How to fund that gap.
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Working capital after buying a business: how to fund the first 90 days
Working capital after buying a business pays for stock, wages and bills before customers pay you. How to plan the first 90 days and fund them with the loan.
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How much does acquisition finance cost? The rate is only part of the price
How much does acquisition finance cost? Interest is only part of it. Fees, security and the structure of the deal decide what you really pay.
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Buying a limited company that is struggling: what comes with the shares
Buying a limited company means taking on its debts, tax arrears and claims. What to check before you agree a price, and how to fund a turnaround.
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Business equipment finance: hire purchase, leasing or a loan?
Business equipment finance compared: when hire purchase, leasing, a loan or your own cash fits new machinery or kit, and what a lender will check.
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Buying a business in administration: what you get and how to have funding ready
Buying a business in administration means buying assets fast, with few warranties. What you get, what happens to staff, and how to have funding ready.
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