British Business Bank funding & support
The British Business Bank is the UK government's economic development bank. It doesn't lend directly to most businesses; instead it works through partners to improve access to finance — including the Start Up Loans programme, regional funds and guarantee schemes. It's finance rather than grant funding, but it's a key route for many companies. Subvention shows where Business Bank programmes fit alongside the live grants your company is eligible for.
Grants change frequently — always confirm eligibility, amounts and deadlines with the funder via the linked source. Subvention does not guarantee funding.
What the British Business Bank offers
The Bank's support is mostly debt and equity delivered via partners, not cash grants. Well-known routes include the Start Up Loans programme for new businesses, regional investment funds, and guarantee schemes that help lenders say yes.
- • Start Up Loans — government-backed personal loans for new businesses, with mentoring
- • Regional funds — investment for specific parts of the UK
- • Guarantee and finance-access programmes delivered through lenders
Grants vs finance — and how to use both
If you specifically need a grant (money you don't repay), Subvention is the fastest way to find what you're eligible for. If you need finance, the British Business Bank's programmes may fit. Many businesses combine both — a grant for an R&D project and a loan for working capital. Subvention focuses on the grant side and links you to each funder's official page.
Frequently asked questions
- Does the British Business Bank give grants?
- Mostly no — it improves access to finance (loans, equity, guarantees) through partners, including Start Up Loans. For grants specifically, Subvention matches your company to live grant schemes.
- What is a Start Up Loan?
- A government-backed personal loan (delivered via the British Business Bank's programme) for people starting or growing a new business, usually with free mentoring. It's finance, not a grant.
- Should I get a grant or a loan?
- A grant is money you don't repay but is competitive and restricted; a loan is repayable but more flexible. Many businesses use both. Subvention helps you find the grants you qualify for first.
Grant data refreshed daily · page last reviewed 2026-07-26. Always confirm details with the funder.