Step one

Contact our Loan Fund Manager to discuss your requirements.

Step two

Complete our application form, and send it to us together with:

• Comprehensive Business Plan & Financial Forecasts
• A satisfactory and current Self-Credit search (www.equifax.co.uk or www.experian.co.uk)
• Identification evidence - Copy of your photo ID (passport or photo driving licence)
• Utility bill (gas, phone, or electric, but not a mobile phone bill; not older than three months)
• Bank statements for the last six months (on your business account, or if you have not started trading, on your personal account).
• Two personal references - one of which must be from your Faith leader/pastor.
• A letter of decline for finance from a bank or other mainstream lender.

We will not put forward your application until we believe that your business plan and other supporting evidence gives you the best possible chance of being funded.

Step three

Once your application is complete, you will be invited to a loan panel meeting where it will be assessed by an independent panel of experienced professionals and local business owners.

The Loan Fund has limited resources, and it must be understood from the outset that "going through the process" does not guarantee success.

Step four

You will be advised verbally of the panel's decision within 24 hours, and in writing within two working days. The decision made by the independent panel is final, and declined applicants cannot reapply.

If successful, it may take two to three weeks before the money is transferred into your business bank account.

You will need to complete a direct debit mandate for the repayment of your loan and the monthly management fee. A Personal Guarantee will be required.