Whether you’re just starting out, looking to expand, or simply need help managing cash flow, there’s a wide range of finance solutions designed to support businesses at every stage.
DetailsFor owners of expanding businesses, securing the right financing is a critical step towards sustained growth.
DetailsThe UK remains a global leader in sustainable development, emphasising environmental responsibility and green finance.
DetailsIn 2025, the economic environment presents both opportunities and challenges for growing businesses.
DetailsThe UK property market in 2025 presents a wealth of opportunities for investors, developers, and growing businesses alike.
DetailsIn 2025, AI is reshaping how businesses access funding, making the process faster, more efficient, and increasingly personalised.
DetailsAs we step further into 2025, interest rates continue to be a major talking point for businesses looking to secure funding. With economic uncertainty still looming, understanding how fluctuating rates affect business finance is essential for making informed financial decisions.
DetailsWithout a steady flow of cash, even profitable businesses can struggle to cover overheads, pay suppliers, or invest in growth opportunities.
DetailsWhen it comes to business finance, experience, knowledge, and personal service make all the difference. At South West Business Finance (SWBF), our team of expert finance brokers and advisors bring together over 400 years of combined experience in banking, commercial finance, and alternative lending solutions.
DetailsArtificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept, it’s actively shaping industries, and the property sector is no exception. As a UK business finance broker, here at South West Business Finance, we’ve been watching closely as AI transforms how properties are valued, bought, and sold. But what does this mean for property professionals, investors, and the wider market?
DetailsDiscover why local business funding matters and how South West Business Finance supports the local economy, boosts small businesses, and strengthens communities.
DetailsDiscover how South West Business Finance helps businesses secure funding when high street banks say no. Learn about tailored solutions, ongoing support, and the benefits of a dedicated relationship manager.
DetailsExplore the rise of alternative finance and discover how South West Business Finance can help your business access flexible, fast, and accessible funding options beyond traditional loans.
DetailsDiscover the top 10 tips for securing business funding in 2025, including preparing a business plan, understanding credit, and working with a finance broker like SWBF.
DetailsDiscover the top 5 reasons why partnering with a finance broker like South West Business Finance can help your business access funding, secure a business loan, and achieve financial success in 2025.
DetailsBath Dragons is a new business support initiative with a twist, set up and funded by a top team of experts from some of the area’s highest profile business services companies.
DetailsKeeping your business finances in order is essential for long-term success, but it can feel overwhelming without a solid plan in place. To help, we’ve compiled 10 practical tips to keep your finances on track and ensure your business thrives in 2025 and beyond.
DetailsWhat a year 2024 has been for us at South West Business Finance (SWBF)! This year marked a truly special milestone, our 10th anniversary.
DetailsHeld at the scenic Cumberwell venue, the event brought together 100 attendees for a morning of networking, economic updates, and valuable discussions about the UK’s financial landscape.
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsIn this article, we invite you to SWBF’s Economic Breakfast Briefing, featuring expert insights from Mark Berrisford-Smith.
DetailsFrom 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.
DetailsHave a read of the latest edition The Business Exchange to find out more about the inspiring women in Swindon and Wiltshire as voted for by TBE readers, and the remarkable impact they are having in our local communities
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsProperty finance is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate across Bath, Bristol, and the wider South West of England.
DetailsEmbarking on a property development project involves more than just imagining the end result—it requires a solid financial strategy to support every step of the journey.
DetailsInvesting in property can be a rewarding journey, but it often comes with its fair share of complexities. At South West Business Finance, we aim to make property investment straightforward and successful.
DetailsEvery small business starts with a dream and faces its unique challenges.Whether you’re launching your first venture, nurturing a beloved craft shop, or expanding your cosy café, managing finances with confidence is essential. At South West Business Finance, we specialise in providing tailored solutions to meet your unique needs, offering financial help for small businesses at every stage of their journey.
DetailsNavigating property finance can be challenging, but with our expert guidance, you can manage it effectively and achieve your property goals. South West Business Finance, based in Bath, is here to help you secure funding for your building, property development and investment projects. We offer customised financial solutions tailored to your unique needs.
DetailsHere we explore the various funding opportunities in the market for property development that you can get into with a bit of help from business finance brokers. We will discuss topics such as property development loans, financing for renovation projects, and offering tailored financial solutions to address the specific needs of property developers.
DetailsIn this article South West Business Finance explains the significance of cash flow finance for small businesses. We discuss its importance in maintaining operations, covering expenses, and seizing growth opportunities. With insights on how South West Business Finance, can assist you in securing cash flow loans tailored to your small business needs.
DetailsIn this article South West Business Finance explains the significance of cash flow finance for small businesses. We discuss its importance in maintaining operations, covering expenses, and seizing growth opportunities. With insights on how South West Business Finance, can assist you in securing cash flow loans tailored to your small business needs.
DetailsIn this article South West Business Finance explains the significance of cash flow finance for small businesses. We discuss its importance in maintaining operations, covering expenses, and seizing growth opportunities. With insights on how South West Business Finance, can assist you in securing cash flow loans tailored to your small business needs.
DetailsIn this article South West Business Finance explains the significance of cash flow finance for small businesses. We discuss its importance in maintaining operations, covering expenses, and seizing growth opportunities. With insights on how South West Business Finance, can assist you in securing cash flow loans tailored to your small business needs.
DetailsWhy is Business Finance Important? In today’s fast-changing business world, getting money when you need it is super important for businesses to grow and do well. It gives companies the cash they need to make big ideas happen, come up with new products, fund new equipment, and grab opportunities when they come along. At South…
DetailsWhat Is Business Finance All About? When it comes to financing your business, the possibilities are endless. From equipment purchases to expansion projects, there are numerous avenues to explore. Business finance covers a wide range of financial products and services designed to help businesses manage their money and grow. Whether you’re in need of a…
DetailsWhat can you Finance for your Business with Business Finance? When it comes to financing your business, the possibilities are endless. From equipment purchases to expansion projects, there are numerous avenues to explore. Business finance covers a wide range of financial products and services designed to help businesses manage their money and grow. Whether you’re…
DetailsAre you looking for some assistance with your business finances? You’re in the right place! South West Business Finance (SWBF) is here to help you find the right funding solutions for your business. Understanding business finances can be tricky, especially with so many options out there. Whether you’re just starting out or have been running…
DetailsWe spoke to Managing Directors Dan Smith and Steve Barrett to find out about how 2023 has gone for SWBF. We have been able to support many of our existing clients and new clients with their lending applications and structures providing vital support and cashflow during the challenging times. Overall, we have sourced over £120…
DetailsWe were delighted to be joined in the office by Philippa Cox from the Youth Adventure Trust to reflect on a year of fundraising we have been doing for the Charity. The Youth Adventure Trust helps vulnerable young people aged 11-16 years old unlock their potential and lead positive lives in the future. Their…
DetailsEconomic Outlook Seminar 4th October 2023 at Bath Racecourse Key Messages (prepared by Mark Berrisford-Smith) The going turns soft (again) The global economy has run out of puff in the past few months, just as it did after a bright start in 2022. Last year, the war in Ukraine was the culprit; this year it’s…
DetailsOver the past nine years the firm has grown from a team of 3 to a team of 18, with a team of Partners with over 400 years combined Commercial Banking experience. Steve and Dan share the SWBF story so far as we celebrate 9 years in business and what’s next for SWBF. What’s changed…
DetailsOn the 30th June, 9 climbers and 2 drivers from the South West Business Finance Team set off to Scotland to take on the 3 Peaks Challenge raising money for their Charity Partner, the Youth Adventure Trust. The 3 Peaks Challenge involves climbing the three highest peaks of Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scaffell Pike) and…
DetailsProperty development is an exciting and potentially rewarding field that involves transforming land or existing properties into profitable ventures. If you have a passion for real estate and a desire to create value through development projects, getting into property development can be a rewarding business. However, it requires careful planning, market knowledge, financial acumen, and…
DetailsWe at SWBF love a social gathering in any form, so networking and business events take up a good deal of our diary time…or at least they used to. In March 2020 this wonderful element of our industry was cancelled overnight, and it didn’t return for two years. Even then, only on a very tentative…
DetailsOn the 9th March, we were delighted to host a Quiz Night raising money for our Charity Partner the Youth Adventure Trust. We were joined by nine other business in Bath for an evening of fun, competitiveness and Prosecco! Over six rounds we challenged our guests on all things Bath, Geography, Sport, General Knowledge, Film…
Details10 reasons why you should use a Finance Broker Have you been considering working with a finance broker to support your business? We’ve put together 10 reasons why using a broker for your finance needs could help your business. Expert financial advice When it comes to securing finance, there are often numerous options available, and…
DetailsAs business owners, we are always busy, but it’s so important to take the time to reflect on your funding structures to make sure they are delivering what you need them to. To help, here are 5 Financial Resolutions for you to consider for your business in 2023. 1. Review your finance and funding…
DetailsWe spoke to Managing Directors Dan Smith and Steve Barrett to find out about how their year has gone at South West Business Finance: The Highs We have been able to support many of our existing clients and new clients with their lending applications and structures providing vital support and cashflow during the…
DetailsWe were delighted to choose Prostate Cancer UK as our chosen charity for 2022 and we have been working hard to do all we can and raise awareness for this fantastic charity. In March, several members of the Team completed March the Month, where their challenge was to walk 11,000 steps a day and…
DetailsWe are so delighted to say that we won the Buy to Let Broker of the Year Award at the NACFB Broker Awards on Friday! Hosted by Ed Byrne at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, the awards sought to recognise excellence within the commercial broking community. You can read more about the event and all the winners here.…
DetailsOn Thursday 26th May, SWBF hosted a Charity Golf Day at Cumberwell Park near Bath, raising money for our chosen charity this year, Prostate Cancer UK. We were joined by 16 teams of clients, colleagues and professional contacts who all enjoyed 18 holes of golf with some cocktails and gin along the way! …
DetailsProperty Development Finance can be complex. Our team of experienced professionals are on hand to help guide you through the process and be a point of contact for any queries. We can research the market to identify the most appropriate lenders and assist in obtaining the best rates and terms for your project. Our network…
DetailsAs part of our commitment to inclusion and greater diversity within our industry, we were delighted to join the Women in Finance Charter in 2022. We feel that a balanced workforce is good for business and culture and it aligns well with our Brand Values. We want to attract, employ and retain a diverse and adaptable…
DetailsBusiness loans are a type of borrowing that you usually pay back on a monthly basis. You can use them for almost any purpose relating to your business including hiring staff, moving premises, paying off debts, buying stock or equipment or growing your business and expanding your operation. Most business loans fall into two categories,…
DetailsThis year we have pledged to support Prostate Cancer UK by doing all we can to fundraise and raise awareness. Every 45 minutes, one man dies from prostate cancer – one more father, one more brother, one more uncle. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. Prostate Cancer UK is the…
DetailsHappy New Year from all the Team at SWBF! Have a read of our top tips to starting off the year well from our Managing Director, Dan Smith: What’s one piece of advice you would give every business owner at the start of the calendar year? Though business owners are always busy, I would…
DetailsWe spoke to Managing Directors Dan Smith and Steve Barrett to find out about their highlights of 2021 Supporting our Clients We have been able to support many of our clients and some new clients with their CBILS and RLS applications, providing vital support and cashflow during the challenging times. This year we have been…
DetailsKai Pinnell is Business Development Manager for South West Business Finance (SWBF), working across the South West supporting SMEs. He joined the SWBF team in 2019 after a 10-year career in banking at HSBC. It was during Kai’s time at HSBC that he met SWBF Co-Founder Steve Barrett who also worked in commercial banking for the…
DetailsAfter the very successful 2021 Bath Property Awards and Bristol Property Awards, last Friday we attended the inaugural Exeter Property Awards at Sandy Park which certainly lived up to its billing. Exeter has an absolutely thriving property sector, underpinned by some amazing companies and this was very much on show at the Awards. Exeter is…
DetailsWe are really pleased to be hosting our inaugural Charity Golf Day supporting Prostate Cancer UK. Save the date: Thursday 26th May 2022 Cumberwell Park Golf Club If you would like to register your interest please contact Kai (kaipinnell@swbf.co.uk) You can find out more about the work that Prostate Cancer Uk do here: Prostate Cancer…
DetailsProperty Development Finance can be complex. Our team of experienced professionals are on hand to help guide you through the process and be a point of contact for any queries. We can research the market to identify the most appropriate lenders and assist in obtaining the best rates and terms for your project. We have…
DetailsWe are delighted to be shortlisted as a finalist in the Financial Category at this years Bristol Property Awards. The awards are taking place on the 12th November at Ashton Gate in Bristol and you can find out more about the awards and finalists at the following link: Bristol Property Awards
Details🌟We won!🌟 We are so thrilled to announce that we won the ‘Deal of the Year’ Award 2021 at the NACFB Commercial Broker Awards yesterday. This is for the funding we sourced with Shawbrook for the Tallick Group Limited to support their key work in helping reduce the carbon footprint in the UK. It was a fantastic event…
DetailsThe world of commercial finance for SME’s has changed. The rise of challenger banks and alternative finance providers such as peer-to-peer, crowdfunding and private equity is at an all-time high. Alternative Finance, which is an umbrella term for business finance from lenders outside of the high street banks and mainstream capital markets, is not necessarily…
DetailsSome thoughts from our Managing Directors on the business reaching its 7th year” “The Team at SWBF are delighted to be celebrating its 7th year in existence. Now some say there is an ‘irritating’ itch after 7 years which leads to a lot of breakups! Well not at SWBF, if anything the itch is to…
DetailsYou may have heard lenders talk about the ‘security’ required for business loans, or the terminology ‘secured’ and ‘unsecured lending’, but what does this mean for your business? In simple terms, if you take out a secured business loan, it means the loan is backed up by some type of security such as the…
DetailsCashflow refers to the money moving in and out of your business. The aim is to have a positive cashflow (more money coming in than out) so that you can deal with any unexpected issues and invest in growth. Having poor cashflow can cause major business issues even if you’re making profit! So what is…
DetailsWe are delighted to be shortlisted in the ‘Deal of the Year’ Category at the NACFB United Kingdom Broker Awards this year. This is for the funding we sourced with Shawbrook Bank for Talick Group Limited to support their key work in helping to reduce the carbon footprint in the UK. We look forward to…
DetailsWe love getting feedback from our clients about how the funding we source for them helps their businesses to grow and succeed. Our Partner Rob Matson, received the following comments from his client Paul Ryman Fitness: “YOU DID IT!! Firstly, a huge THANK YOU! You really did go the extra mile for me and I…
DetailsWe are very excited to announce the launch of our newly refreshed website, thanks to the team at Frankman Design & Marketing. We wanted to give the website an update and make it easier to navigate and more-user friendly. We hope that it will provide our visitors with an easier way to learn about SWBF’s…
DetailsCBILS has come to an end, but there is still support to be found in the form of the Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS). This is a new scheme that has effectively replaced the CBILS and BBLS schemes and is designed to provide government-backed support to businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. …
DetailsDespite the difficulties that the pandemic has created in the world of lending, we have still been very busy and have completed on some fantastic deals over the last few months. We have also seen some real success stories and businesses that have seized the opportunities that have arisen during a difficult time. I…
DetailsWe are delighted to introduce our new sister brand Aspire Property Finance. APF specialises in Auction Finance and sourcing and tailoring finance for complex property transactions across the UK. The Team were interviewed by Anita Jaynes from The Business Exchange and you can read the article below: Growing Corsham firm South West Business Finance (SWBF) is branching…
DetailsWe are delighted to welcome our new Partner Russell Stritch to the Team. Read on to find out more.. “I am delighted to join South West Business Finance to continue my work with the strong SME community in the South West, having specialised in the alternative finance arena for over 10 years. Prior to joining…
DetailsA few Residential Property Development Funding Hints and Tips…
DetailsA few years ago when a business wanted to borrow money or discuss their finance requirements they would make an appointment with their local bank manager…
DetailsThe National Association of Estate Agents reports that house sales are at their highest level since before the global financial crisis in 2007/8, and we are certainly seeing the evidence of this in the office…
DetailsIt’s fair to say 2020 was a year that most businesses would rather put behind them…
DetailsIt is always great to receive positive feedback about our Partners. Have a read of the latest comments about our Partner Simon Sheldrake (based in Cornwall and Devon) from his clients. “Our company approached Simon Sheldrake, South West Business Finance (SWBF) for help in obtaining a new mortgage for the purchase of our first office…
DetailsIt’s fair to say 2020 was a year that most businesses would rather put behind them. The difficulties caused by the pandemic were unprecedented, and commercial finance, and particularly cash flow finance, was dominated by the CBILS and BBLS in an attempt to give necessary support to otherwise healthy businesses. And whilst not always easy…
DetailsWell, 2020 has been a year like no other.. Like all businesses this year we have had our fair share of highs and lows. But as we look towards 2021 let’s focus on the positives. Supporting our clients We have been able to support many of our clients and some new clients with their…
DetailsWe attended the Virtual NACFB Awards on Thursday and were delighted to win the Cashflow Broker of the Year Award! We also came ‘highly commended’ in the Broker Innovation Category. You can read more about the Awards at the following link: NACFB Awards
DetailsThe National Association of Estate Agents reports that house sales are at their highest level since before the global financial crisis in 2007/8, and we are certainly seeing the evidence of this in the office. After a brief pause at the beginning of lockdown, the property market seems to have returned with a vengeance. And…
DetailsFind out more about our newest Partner Rich Manning in his latest blog… “Whilst I always felt that 18 years in financial services was a decent stint, it now appears I’ve joined a team containing people who have been in this industry as long as I’ve been alive! For the last 5 years I’ve specialised…
DetailsSWBF have been shortlisted! We are very happy to announce that we have been shortlisted for two awards at the NACFB Commercial Broker Awards in the Broker Innovation and Cashflow Broker Categories. We are so proud of our amazing and hard working team and how far we have come over the past 5 years. It…
Details‘Moving Britain Forward’ A new campaign has been launched by the NACFB with the aim of galvanising the lending communities’ collective efforts and driving a new path forward. The ‘Moving Britain Forward’ campaign will encompass all the Association’s efforts over the coming months under a single banner. From proactive dialogues with the government and industry bodies…
DetailsManaging Director, Dan Smith, gives his thoughts on lending since the lockdown in his latest blog…. Three weeks of isolation later and new routines are quickly becoming the ‘new norm’! Some are definitely for the better like work/life balance and family walks, but some are not so good such as an empty wine rack…
DetailsIt is extremely important that a measured and sensible approach is taken to the Coronavirus, and we at SWBF are of the opinion that the growing concern we are seeing should spark preparation, not panic in businesses. Staff absence, delays or difficulties in goods being shipped or a general slowdown in sales are all examples…
DetailsWe love hearing feedback from our clients and in a recent survey 100% of our clients said they would recommend us, something which we are very proud of. We recently worked with Enquir3 to conduct a client engagement audit to find out how our clients feel about our service, its value, how helpful our…
DetailsThe world of commercial finance for SME’s has changed. The rise of challenger banks and alternative finance providers such as peer-to-peer, crowdfunding and private equity is at an all-time high, whilst the high street banks seem to be ever-decreasing their lending appetite along with their headcount. Alternative Finance, which is an umbrella term for business…
DetailsA few years ago when a business wanted to borrow money or discuss their finance requirements they would make an appointment with their local bank manager. Many people in business would now say the world has changed with less businesses having access to an experienced bank manager. Businesses are now exploring alternatives to obtain the…
DetailsWe caught up with Dan (our Managing Director) to find out his thoughts about 2019 and what 2020 has in store for SWBF. Have a read of his review of 2019 below: What are you most proud of in 2019? We are so proud of the team for winning the Financial Services…
DetailsWe attended the Bath Property Awards on Friday 15th November at the Apex Hotel in Bath and were delighted to be announced as the winners of the Financial Services category! The judges said the following about us, “an outstanding year, securing over £100million of lending to its clients while facilitating key developments in Oldfield Park…
DetailsRunning a successful business can be a challenge, especially if your business is subject to seasonal highs and lows. It is important to be prepared for any unexpected issues that could affect your cashflow and cashflow finance could be the answer by assisting with the following: Helping even out peaks and troughs in the cash…
DetailsIn September 2019, SWBF had a pretty special month as we celebrated turning 5! We were delighted to celebrate and share this milestone with the whole team at our team meeting. It has been a great 5 years, we have grown our team and taken on additional employees, we have invested in our systems and…
DetailsSWBF are finalists! Celebrating the dynamic property sector in Bath, the 2019 Bath Property Awards is in its second year and we are delighted to be announced as a finalist in the Financial Services category. The awards are taking place on the 15th November at the Apex Hotel and we look forward to attending, good luck…
DetailsWe have teamed up with the Insider to find out where businesses turn when looking to raise funds. We’d like to know where you go if existing funders aren’t able to fulfil requirements. Do you know your funding options? This short survey will help us better understand business needs when it comes to raising funding and…
DetailsOn the 4thMay the team at South West Business Finance walked the Bristol to Bath railway path (15.3 miles) to raise money to support the tremendous work done by our partner charity the Children’s Hospice South West and their hospices in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset. The whole team (including the office dog Digby) completed the…
Details2018 has flown by and what a year it has been! There have been some significant changes and some great achievements. Take a look at our 2018 review: The size of the team has increased with great people joining us We have strengthened our operations and compliance procedures We have invested in new…
DetailsA few years ago when somebody wanted to borrow money such as agreeing or extending an overdraft, agreeing a loan for a new venture or property project/investment for example, they would make an appointment with their local bank manager or, if they did not already have one, select a bank, often their parents’. They…
DetailsWe are delighted to be supporting Children’s Hospice South West as our Charity of the Year. The partners have committed to tackle the Bath to Bristol railway path in the spring of 2019 to raise monies to support the tremendous work done by the Children’s Hospices in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset. The funds we raise…
DetailsIn line with being shortlisted in the Bath Property Awards, we thought we’d share our residential property development funding hints and tips you may find useful: Demonstrate your experience in the sector and if you are new to property development ensure you have a team of proven and experienced professionals. Produce your portfolio of…
DetailsThe Bank of England has gone ahead with the much-anticipated rise in interest rates from 0.5% to 0.75%, but what does this mean for businesses, investors and the property market? Managing Director, Dan Smith, gives his reaction of rising interest rates…. “Obviously this will increase costs of finance if your business loan is linked to…
DetailsThere are pros and cons to purchasing a buy-to-let in a limited company versus under a personal name but the choice depends entirely on the individual circumstances of the borrower. As an experienced commercial mortgage broker we will be able to guide you on your options and give you more insight and information on what will…
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