A Decade of Business Finance Delivery for SWBF

In this article, we celebrate South West Business Finance’s 10th anniversary and the incredible journey they’ve had since 2014.

This article was featured in a recent edition of Bath’s Business Magazine, called TBE (The Business Exchange)

From navigating the challenges of the past decade to facilitating landmark projects, SWBF continues to find innovative funding solutions for businesses across the South West. Learn 10 surprising facts about SWBF and discover 10 ways business finance can be used to support growth, expansion, and innovation.

Read on to learn more about their dedicated team, specialist services, and commitment to the local community.

A Decade of Business Finance Delivery for SWBF

This year, South West Business Finance (SWBF) celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Since 2014 the specialist broker has been finding funding solutions for businesses throughout Bath, Somerset and the South West – and let’s face it, that’s no mean feat when you consider what the past decade has thrown at us!

“Over the past 10 years, we are particularly proud of the way we have managed to continue to source funding through unprecedented times” Dan Smith, Founder

So, reflecting on the theme of 10, here are 10 ways businesses can use business finance and 10 things you might not know about SWBF.

10 FACTS ABOUT SWBF

1. The team has over 400 years of combined finance experience, with backgrounds mainly from HSBC and Lloyds.
2. They have two office dogs – Digby and Mali.
3. From property funding to cashflow loans, SWBF is committed to finding finance solutions for businesses of all kinds. 
   
4. SWBF started as a team of three and has grown to employ 20 people. 
   
5. With over 300 lenders in the market, SWBF prides itself on knowledge of specialist products that can be tailored to specific business needs. 
   
6. The team has a shared passion for rugby and sponsors a Bath Rugby player every year. 
   
7. Recently, SWBF has facilitated funding for iconic landmarks including Hartham Park in Corsham and the historic Bank of England building in Bristol.
8. The team go the extra mile for charity, participating in various fundraising activities like walks, cycles, swims and mountain climbs. 
   
9. SWBF is a proud member of the Women in Finance Charter, actively supporting and championing the women in their team. 
   
10. The SWBF were whisked away to Barcelona to celebrate this milestone anniversary.

10 WAYS TO USE BUSINESS FINANCE

1. Equipment Purchases – businesses can finance the purchase of equipment needed for operations. This can include machinery, vehicles, computers and specialised tools.
2. Property Acquisition or Property Investment – financing options can be utilised to purchase or lease commercial properties such as office spaces, warehouses, retail stores or manufacturing facilities.
3. Expansion Projects – businesses looking to expand their operations, whether through opening new locations, launching new product lines or entering new markets, often seek financing to cover the associated costs.
4. Working Capital – financing can be used to maintain sufficient working capital to cover day-to-day expenses, such as payroll, inventory purchases, utilities and rent, particularly during periods of growth or economic downturns.
5. Marketing and Advertising – businesses may need to source finance to invest in marketing and advertising campaigns to increase brand awareness, attract customers and drive sales.
6. Technology Upgrades – keeping up with advancements in technology is essential for many businesses. Financing can be used to invest in software, hardware and other technology upgrades to improve efficiency and productivity.
7. Inventory Management – financing can help businesses optimise their inventory management by providing funds to purchase inventory in bulk, take advantage of bulk discounts or adapt to seasonal fluctuations in demand.
8. Research and Development – businesses focused on innovation and product development may use financing to fund research and development initiatives aimed at creating new products or improving existing ones.
9. Training and Development – investing in employee training and development programs can improve workforce skills and productivity. Financing can cover the costs associated with training seminars, workshops, certifications and continuing education.
10. Debt Consolidation – businesses with multiple outstanding debts may opt to consolidate them into a single loan with more favourable terms, such as a lower interest rate or longer repayment period, to simplify debt management and reduce overall costs.

SWBF provides a specialist, tailored service on a case-by-case basis to ensure it provides the right funding solution at the most competitive rate.