You're likely to be eligible for a Start Up Loan if you're 18 or over, live in the UK with the right to work here, and are starting a UK business or have been trading for up to 60 months. The full criteria are below.
The criteria
- You're 18 or over and a current UK resident.
- You have the right to work in the UK.
- You're starting a new business, or have been trading for up to 60 months.
- Your business is based in the UK.
- You haven't had a Start Up Loan before, or you qualify for a second one.
- Your business type and loan purpose are eligible under the scheme.
- You can afford to repay the loan and you pass the scheme's credit check.
- You haven't been declined for a Start Up Loan in the last six months.
A few things people ask about
- Trading for up to 60 months. The limit went up from 36 months on 6 April 2026, so if you were turned away before for trading too long, you may now qualify.
- Business types and purposes. Some sectors, and some uses of the money, can't be funded. See Eligibility: which businesses and loan purposes are excluded?.
- The credit check. This is part of the formal application, not our first eligibility check. See Will applying affect my credit score?.
- Already had a Start Up Loan? You may qualify for a second one. See Second loans: how do I apply for a second Start Up Loan?.
Check in 60 seconds
Our eligibility check takes 60 seconds and doesn't involve a credit search. If you look eligible, a bizbritain advisor will take you through the next steps.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026