Where to Get Business Loans
Running a business is full of highs and lows. One of the toughest moments? Realising you need funding — and not knowing where to start. If you’re wondering where to get business loans, you’re definitely not alone. Many business owners reach this point and hit a wall.
Banks can be slow or say no. Online lenders are everywhere but don’t always show the full picture. And trying to apply on your own? That’s a full-time job in itself. The stress, the jargon, the endless paperwork — it’s enough to make anyone hesitate.
At First Oak Capital, we simplify the process. We’re a UK-based finance broker that works with business owners across the country. Whether you’re a sole trader or running a growing company, we’ll help you find the right loan to suit your plans — without the headache.
Why It’s So Hard to Find Business Finance on Your Own
Let’s be honest: most business owners are brilliant at what they do — but they aren’t finance experts. And that’s totally fine. Your job is to run your company, look after your team, and grow your business. Not spend hours comparing lender websites, checking eligibility criteria, or figuring out why an application got rejected.
Here’s what we see time and time again:
- Business owners apply to one lender (usually their bank)
- They get declined, with no clear reason why
- They try again somewhere else — same result
- They give up, thinking no one will help
But the issue isn’t that your business isn’t good enough. It’s that lenders all have different rules, risk appetites, and criteria. And most don’t advertise those differences upfront.
That’s where we come in.
What a Broker Like First Oak Capital Actually Does
Think of us as the matchmaker between your business and the right lender. We listen to your goals, understand your challenges, and use our experience to find the loan that fits.
We’re not tied to one bank. We work with a whole panel of lenders — including high street names, challenger banks, and niche finance providers that specialise in certain industries or situations.
We:
- Help you figure out what type of loan you actually need
- Match you with lenders based on what you tell us
- Prepare your application so it shows your business in the best light
- Speak to the lenders for you and chase things up
- Help you understand your options clearly
No confusing paperwork. No cookie-cutter advice. Just proper, personalised help.
Benefits of Using a Broker Instead of Going Direct
You might be thinking: why not just go straight to a lender?
Here’s why that usually doesn’t work:
- You’ll only see what they offer
One lender = one product. But your business might need something different. We compare options to find the best fit. - You’ll miss out on lenders you didn’t know existed
Some lenders don’t advertise widely. Others only work with brokers. We have access to all of them. - You might get declined because your application wasn’t strong enough
We know how to position your business so lenders say yes. - You’ll waste time filling out endless forms
We handle the paperwork. You stay focused on your business. - You might end up with the wrong type of loan
There are more finance products out there than you think. We’ll explain what works best for your needs.
The Types of Loans We Can Help You With
Every business is different. That’s why we work across a wide range of products. Here are just some of the loans we can arrange:
Term Loans
A straightforward lump sum, repaid over time. Ideal for business investments, expansions, or one-off costs.
Cashflow Loans
Short-term funding to help manage peaks and troughs in your business. Keeps things moving when cash is tight.
Asset Finance
Need a van, machinery, or equipment? Don’t drain your bank account. We’ll help you spread the cost over time.
Corporation Tax and VAT Loans
Tax bills don’t wait. These loans help you stay on top of your obligations — without stressing your cash reserves.
Invoice Finance
Waiting on invoices to be paid? Turn them into instant cash with this flexible option.
Revolving Credit Facilities
Like a business overdraft. Use what you need, repay, then draw again. Great for ongoing flexibility.
Business Acquisition Loans
Buying another business? We can help with funding to support your growth.
Merchant Cash Advance
If you take payments by card, this loan is repaid automatically as you earn. Smart and flexible.
What Makes First Oak Capital Different?
We’re not a call centre. We’re not an automated chatbot. We’re real people who care about helping UK businesses succeed — whether you’re just getting started or scaling up.
Here’s how we’re different:
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We understand the pressures and unpredictability business owners face
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We speak in plain English — no jargon, no fluff
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We move fast when timing matters most
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We offer honest advice based on real experience, not sales scripts
Most importantly, we don’t stop at “computer says no.”
If you’re turned down by a lender, we’ll tell you why — and what to do next. Often, there’s another lender or a better-fit product we can pivot to straight away.
As proud supporters of the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB), we uphold the highest standards in transparency, ethics, and client care — so you know you’re working with professionals who genuinely have your back.
You focus on your business. We’ll take care of the finance.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
One mistake we see a lot: business owners wait until the last minute to apply for finance. Maybe cashflow is already strained. Or a payment has been missed. Or an opportunity is slipping away.
By then, lenders can get nervous. But when you plan ahead — even by a few weeks — you have more options, better rates, and stronger bargaining power.
Even if you’re not sure if you’ll need a loan, let’s talk. We’ll help you get prepared.
What You Can Expect Working With Us
✅ A quick call to understand your business and goals
✅ Clear, honest feedback on what’s possible
✅ An expert who handles the heavy lifting
✅ A well-matched lender and a smooth process
✅ Support from start to finish (and beyond)
You’ll never be just a number. We treat every client like we’re part of your team.
Ready to borrow smarter?
Click here to apply now or speak to one of our friendly brokers today.
Q: Can I get a loan if my business is new?
A: Yes. We work with lenders who specialise in start-ups. They look at your plans, not just your past.
Q: I’ve been declined elsewhere. Can you still help?
A: Most likely, yes. Declines happen for all sorts of reasons. We’ll figure out what went wrong and find another route.
Q: How long does it take to get a loan?
A: Some deals complete within 24–48 hours. Others can take a week or two depending on complexity. We move as fast as the lender allows.
Q: Is there a cost for using a broker?
A: No, we’re paid by the lender — not you. You get our support and expertise without added cost.
Q: Will using a broker hurt my credit score?
A: No. We only do soft searches unless you’re ready to apply. We’ll always check with you first.
Q: Can you help if I’m a sole trader?
A: Yes. We work with businesses of all sizes and setups, including sole traders.
Q: Do I need to offer security?
A: It depends on the loan type. Some are unsecured, others may need a guarantee or asset backing. We’ll explain everything clearly.