Explore our FAQs to learn more about our funding process, eligibility requirements, repayment terms, and how First Funding supports your business every step of the way.
We help UK-based businesses access the right funding by matching them with trusted lenders across a range of options, including:
Whether you’re a startup or an established business, we’ll guide you toward funding that fits your needs and stage.
A PG is a Personal Guarantee — a standard requirement for most unsecured loans. It means you, as a director, personally guarantee repayment if the business cannot repay. Not all products require it, and we’ll explain clearly when it applies.
We currently work with over 25 vetted lenders across various funding categories — including high-street, alternative, and specialist providers. This allows us to offer flexible, tailored solutions for a wide range of business types and industries.
We aim to make business funding easier, not more complicated.
No, we don’t charge businesses any upfront fees. In most cases, we’re compensated by the lender once your deal is successfully funded. If a lender charges any fees as part of the loan, you’ll always be informed clearly before proceeding.
Yes — we do work with startups and newer businesses. While many lenders require at least 6 months of trading history, we also have lenders who consider early-stage businesses, especially if you have experience or a strong business plan.
Yes. A dip in turnover doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Some lenders assess your overall trading pattern or recent performance rather than just historical figures. We’ll advise you on what’s possible.
Yes, in many cases. We work with lenders who take a broader view of your business performance, not just credit scores. If your business is generating income, we can explore flexible options that may still work for you.
No. While some lenders ask about homeownership as part of their affordability assessment, it’s not required to apply. Many of our products are accessible regardless of your personal property status.
Yes — we currently work only with businesses that are registered and operating in the UK, and where directors or business owners are UK residents.
The borrowing amount depends on your turnover, loan type, and lender criteria. General guidelines:
We totally get it - sometimes you don’t have everything on hand. The good news is, we can start exploring options with minimal documents. But to give you access to the most suitable lenders, it would help if you share:
Additional documents may be requested later depending on the lender and product.
We’re a broker, not a direct lender. That means we work on your behalf to find the best deal from our panel of 25+ trusted lenders — saving you time and giving you access to multiple funding options with just one application.
We’ll only recommend what suits your business and explain the terms clearly.
Funds can be used for almost any legitimate business purpose, including:
Let us know your goal so we can match it with the right funding solution.
Yes. We work with many clients who already have active facilities. Depending on your affordability, we may explore top-ups, second positions, or refinancing with better rates.
Of course. We’re happy to review your current offer and see if we can find a better fit - whether it’s better rates, flexibility, or speed. You’re under no obligation to proceed, but we’ll always help you make an informed decision.
No — your initial application will only involve soft checks, which do not impact your credit score. If a hard check is required later in the process, we’ll always notify you first.
Open Banking is a secure system that allows you to share your bank transaction data with lenders for faster assessment. It’s optional, fully regulated, and you can revoke access at any time. Many lenders use it to offer quicker decisions.
Once we’ve submitted your application, your assigned advisor will keep you updated at every key stage — from submission to offer to payout. You can also reach out anytime for real-time updates.
Yes — we stay involved even after funding. Whether you need future rounds of finance, top-ups, or just a second opinion, we’re here to support you as your business grows.
