UK Government support continues to make competitive funding more accessible for SMEs.
Apply for the Growth Guarantee Scheme - replacing RLS, CBILS & BBLs
Government-backed funding is now available to help UK SMEs access the finance they need to grow. The Growth Guarantee Scheme replaces the Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS), CBILS, and Bounce Back Loan programmes, continuing the government’s support for smaller businesses.
Under the scheme, lenders receive a 70% government guarantee, which helps increase access to funding for businesses that may not otherwise meet standard lending criteria. For borrowers, your primary residential property cannot be taken as security, providing added peace of mind.
Facilities are available from £10,000 up to £2 million and can be used for a wide range of legitimate business purposes, including working capital, investment, and asset purchases.
As an independent broker, Forward Business Funding will assess your eligibility, compare options across participating lenders, and guide you through the application process from start to finish.
1
Quick Enquiry
Share a few details about your business and finance needs using our online form or by phone. It’s fast, simple, and won’t affect your credit score.
2
Understanding Your Business
Your dedicated Account Manager will discuss your goals, review your requirements, and collect any necessary documents to guide your application.
3
Expert Comparison & Quote
We search our panel of lenders to find the best options for your business. We handle the applications for you and provide a no-obligation quote.
4
Fast, Simple Funding
Once approved, funds are paid to your business account — making finance straightforward and hassle-free.
Am I eligible for the Growth Guarantee Scheme?
To qualify for the scheme, your business must meet the following criteria:
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Be based and trading in the UK
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Generate at least 50% of turnover from trading activity.
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Have an annual turnover of up to £45 million.
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Not be in insolvency or undergoing restructuring proceedings.
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Operate in an eligible sector (the scheme excludes banks, insurers, public sector bodies, state-funded schools, and individuals other than sole traders or partners in a partnership).
Our team will review your circumstances and confirm eligibility before submitting an application.
Benefits of the Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS)
Improved access to funding
A 70% government-backed guarantee helps more SMEs secure finance.
Your home is protected
Your principal private residence cannot be taken as security.
Flexible funding amounts
Borrow from £10,000 up to £2 million for a wide range of business purposes.
Competitive rates
Government support enables lenders to offer more accessible pricing.
Multiple finance types available
Covers term loans, asset finance, and asset-based lending facilities.
Broad eligibility
Available to UK SMEs with turnover up to £45 million, including businesses that previously used CBILS, Bounce Back, or RLS.
Did you know your business may be eligible for multiple government-backed funding options?
Your business may be eligible for multiple government growth schemes
If you previously accessed funding through Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), CLBILS, Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS), Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) or a Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) agreement before 30 June 2024, you can still apply for the Growth Guarantee Scheme.
However, any existing borrowing under these programmes may reduce the maximum amount available to you.
The latest in a series of government-backed growth schemes
Since 2019, a series of government-backed programmes have been introduced to improve access to finance and support the growth of UK small businesses.
Government-backed finance has supported over 1.6 million UK businesses, delivering nearly £80 billion to protect jobs and maintain operations during challenging times.
Building on this, the Growth Guarantee Scheme helps SMEs access funding more easily so they can invest, expand, and grow with confidence.
How is Forward Business Funding different?
Whole-of-market lender panel
Independent and unbiased
Fast approvals and funding
Competitive rates
Dedicated finance specialist
Built for UK SMEs