Sorbus Finance provides tailored funding solutions for new businesses and start-ups across the UK. Based in Derbyshire, our experienced brokers connect you with over 100 lenders to find finance that fits even if you have no trading history. Our team have a wealth of experience in start-up finance
Contact Sorbus Finance by phone, email, or online form. Tell us about your business, what you need funding for, and the amount required. No commitment at this stage.
A dedicated Sorbus Finance broker reviews your situation – including your business plan, personal credit, and intended use of funds – and identifies the most suitable lenders.
We approach lenders from our panel of 100+ providers, including specialists in start-up finance, on your behalf. We do the legwork, not you.
Your broker supports you through the application, helping gather required documents such as a business plan, ID, bank statements (personal if pre-revenue), and financial projections.
Once approved, funds are typically released within 2-3 business days depending on the product and lender. Your broker stays in contact throughout.
Your broker will keep in touch with you and support you through the growth of your business.
Yes. Several lenders on the Sorbus Finance panel specialise in lending to businesses with no trading history. Approval is typically based on your business plan, personal credit history, founder experience, and the intended use of funds. Government-backed Start Up Loans are also available with no trading history required.
The amount available depends on the lender and product type. Government-backed Start Up Loans offer up to £25,000 per founder (with multiple founders potentially accessing more). Asset finance amounts depend on the asset value. Unsecured business loans for start-ups typically range from £5,000 to £250,000. Sorbus Finance will identify what your business is likely to qualify for before you apply.
For most start-up loans – particularly government-backed options – a business plan is required. It should include your business concept, target market, financial projections, and planned use of funds. Sorbus Finance can advise you on what lenders expect to see and help ensure your application is as strong as possible.
Many start-up lenders require a personal guarantee, meaning you accept personal responsibility for the debt if the business cannot repay. However, not all products require this – some asset finance arrangements use the asset as security, and certain government-backed options have reduced guarantee requirements. Sorbus Finance will clearly explain any personal guarantee requirements before you commit.
Approval timelines vary by product and lender. Asset finance can be approved in 24–72 hours in some cases. Business loan applications typically take 5–10 working days from submission to funding. Government-backed Start Up Loans take longer due to the mentoring and verification process. Your Sorbus Finance broker will give you a realistic timeline based on your specific situation.
Access to mainstream banks, challenger lenders, and start-up specialists – all through one broker.
Sorbus Finance is paid by lenders, not by you. There’s no upfront fee to access our broker service.
You’ll have one point of contact throughout – someone who understands your business and stays with you from enquiry to funding.
Our team brings deep knowledge of the UK SME lending market, including the nuances of start-up and early-stage finance.
Regulated, transparent and complaint. We tell you exactly how we’re paid and what your options are.
We work with businesses across the UK but maintain a personal, local-feel approach to every client relationship.
If you’re launching a business and need funding advice, Sorbus Finance offers a free, no-obligation initial conversation. Our brokers understand the challenges of early-stage finance and will give you an honest assessment of your options – no jargon, no pressure.
