Access to Finance

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Down Business Centre Attends ‘Access to Finance’ Event – May 2025

Down Business Centre recently attended the Access to Finance event held on 29th May 2025—an insightful and practical workshop designed to demystify the wide range of funding options currently available to micro and small businesses.

This event provided valuable tools, tips, and resources for business finance and growth. One of the key takeaways was just how many funding options exist for small businesses—yet many entrepreneurs remain unaware of what’s available, or unsure of what’s most appropriate for their specific needs.

A Positive Outlook for Business Finance

The overall message from the event was clear: there is a very active borrowing market at the moment. Lenders are open for business, and there is genuine appetite to support the growth of micro and small enterprises. However, understanding what lenders are looking for is crucial. Businesses must be well-prepared, with a clear business plan, accurate cash flow projections, and a solid understanding of their own financial needs.

Getting professional advice is vital—whether through the Go Succeed programme, your accountant, or a financial advisor. Go Succeed, in particular, plays a key role in helping businesses get “lender ready” by providing guidance and support on planning, cash flow and forecasting.

Overview of Available Finance Options

Here are some of the key funding options discussed during the event:

  • Start-Up Loans: Personal loans for new businesses ranging from £500 to £25,000.

  • Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund: Aimed at businesses trading for two years or more.

  • Upstream ABL (Asset-Based Lending): Offers loans secured against company assets, ideal for businesses seeking to release cash to fund growth.

  • Asset Finance (via providers like Simply Finance): Supports the purchase of vehicles and machinery—everything from commercial vans to agricultural or construction equipment. Both start-ups and established businesses are welcome to apply.

  • Upstream Finance (Supply Chain Finance): A useful option for purchasing stock, with a 90-day repayment window to help with cash flow.

  • Invoice Finance: A type of debt purchase agreement that allows businesses to access funds immediately based on outstanding invoices, helping to smooth cash flow.

  • WhiteRock: A managed debt fund offering loans and equity investment for growth-focused businesses.

Final Thoughts

A recurring message throughout the event was the importance of telling your story to lenders. Having a strong narrative, supported by clear financials, is key to securing finance. With the right support and guidance, small businesses in Northern Ireland can confidently navigate the funding landscape and access the finance they need to grow.

For businesses unsure of where to start, Down Business Centre and the Go Succeed programme are here to help.

Contact us for more information 028 44616416