Subsidised and Guaranteed Loans

7. Where to Get Help

7.1 Contact your local Business Link (0845 600 9 006 or www.businesslink.gov.uk).

• Business Link can give you details of any local loan schemes. For example, schemes run by local authorities and Learning & Skills Councils.
• Business Link can help you prepare your application forms and any business plans and financial forecasts that a loan scheme may require.

7.2 If necessary, get professional help

• Some accountants and consultants specialise in preparing loan applications. Check their record of obtaining loans for businesses like yours.
• Negotiate the fees.

7.3 Visit www.j4bgrants.co.uk to search an online database that can help you find out about the variety of loan schemes on offer.

7.4 Avoid loan cowboys.

• Some companies will charge you a fee to identify supported loans you may qualify for. There is no guarantee you will qualify, and exactly the same information is generally available free of charge or at a heavily subsidised rate through your Business Link.
• Some companies will guarantee to return your fee if they fail to arrange a supported loan for you.