Getting help from the government
Looking for a start-up loan? Need to market new products or services? Want to find ways to grow your business? There's a world of government support, advice and inspiration out there - but it can be difficult to know where to look.
To help you access the right information at the right time, this helpful guide can point you in the right direction.
Support when you're starting a business
If you're looking for different ways to raise funds for your start-up, you may be considering equity finance or debt finance. Whichever finance route is right for you, government initiatives such as business support tools, generous tax relief for investors supporting new businesses and government funded Start Up Loans can help get your business up and running.
Find out more about finance options for new businesses
Business support tool
This interactive guidance tool gives you a report on finance types, start-up or growth advice and local and national helplines based on your individual business needs.
Use the business support tool
Start Up Loans
This government-funded scheme provides advice, business loans and mentoring to start-up businesses. Start Up Loans are designed for new ventures that are either still in the planning stages or have been trading for up to 12 months. The average loan amount is £6,000 with a typical repayment term of 1 to 5 years.
Discover more about Start Up Loans
For further help and guidance, call the government's Business Support Helpline on 0300 456 3565
For business support outside of England, visit the following websites for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Government backed loans
The Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS) is a Government backed initiative designed to support eligible UK businesses to invest and grow. The GGS scheme will be available until 31st March 2026.
To find out more on our GGS Scheme click here.
For further help and guidance, call the government's Business Support Helpline on 0300 456 3565 or for business support outside of England, visit here.
Support for exporters
If you're a UK-based company who wants to grow your business overseas, UK Trade and Investment staff provide expert advice and practical support. Through a range of unique services, they can help you trade successfully in foreign markets and become familiar with overseas business practices.
Find out more about UKTI's services for exporters
Find out about government trade finance and insurance solutions
