£1bn in Start-Up Loans: Why Tech Founders and Startups Should Act Now
If you’re running a startup or working on your next big idea, this could be the moment to take things to the next level.
The UK government has just announced £1bn in Start-Up Loans, set to support 69,000 new entrepreneurs — and that includes sole traders, early-stage founders, and tech innovators.
These loans won’t last forever, and competition will be fierce. If you want to secure funding and fuel your growth, you’ll need to act fast and strategically.
The Small Business Plan — What It Means for You
In late July, the government’s Small Business Plan unveiled a double boost for startups:
£1bn in Start-Up Loans (up to £25,000 per founder)
Tougher late payment rules, giving the Small Business Commissioner new powers to enforce 30–60 day payment terms
For the tech sector in particular, where rapid scaling is essential and cash flow gaps can be deadly, this is a rare opportunity.
As business expert Robert Carter puts it:
“Late payments have long been a quiet killer of UK startups. Cash flow dries up before they can scale.”
For ambitious founders, the message is clear — the funding climate is shifting in your favour, but only if you’re ready to move.
Why Tech Startups Should Move Quickly
Opportunities like this don’t come along often — the last time the UK made this kind of funding intervention was more than 20 years ago.
With 69,000 loans on offer, there’s a window of opportunity, but once demand spikes, delays are inevitable. Acting early could mean the difference between a fast approval and a missed chance.
How to Apply — and Increase Your Approval Odds
The Start-Up Loans scheme is run by the British Business Bank, offering:
Loans of up to £25,000 per founder
1–5 year repayment terms
Government-backed support and mentoring
📍 Apply here: gov.uk/apply-start-up-loan
Who can apply?
Sole traders
New founders
Existing small business owners looking to scale
How to strengthen your application:
Have a solid, realistic business plan
Get your financial projections in order
Consider registering as a limited company to improve credibility
Ensure you meet compliance requirements (registered address, director records, statutory filings)
At Zyla Accountants, we’ve helped countless startups — particularly in the tech sector — secure funding by making sure their financials and structures are investor-ready. Lenders and government-backed schemes want to see that you’re not just innovative, but organised and compliant.
Our Take: Strategy Wins, Not Just Speed
While speed is key, approval isn’t just about being first in line. The right preparation — from your financial forecasts to your company formation — can massively improve your chances of success.
Zyla Accountants can help you:
Build a funding-ready business plan
Create accurate, lender-friendly cash flow forecasts
Ensure your company structure meets funding requirements
Navigate tax reliefs, grants, and R&D credits alongside your loan
💡 If you’re a founder with big ambitions, this is the time to get funding-ready.
The government is opening the door — but you still need to walk through it prepared.
📍 Start your application today: gov.uk/apply-start-up-loan