New business? You can still get funded.
We arrange asset finance for startups and businesses trading under 2 years. Our specialist startup panel includes lenders who price on asset quality and director track-record rather than years of filed accounts.
Asset finance for
new businesses.
Starting a business is expensive. Between equipment, vehicles, premises and stock, the upfront costs can be overwhelming. Asset finance lets you spread those costs over the useful life of the asset, preserving precious startup capital for the things that can't be financed — staff, stock, marketing.
As a startup, you won't have the 3+ years of filed accounts that make applications straightforward. But many lenders on our panel specialise in new businesses and take a different approach — they focus on the quality of the asset, your personal credit history, and the strength of your business case.
Around 60% of startup applications through our specialist panel are approved. The key factors are a reasonable deposit (typically 20–30%), clean personal credit, and a clear use for the asset.
What you'll typically need
- Typically 20–30% deposit (vs 0–10% for established businesses)
- Personal guarantee from at least one director
- Clear business plan or use-case for the asset
- 3 months of personal or business bank statements
- Clean personal credit preferred (but adverse considered)
~60% approval
On our startup panel
24-hour decisions
Same as established businesses
£5k – £250k
Typical startup range
Soft search
No credit impact at quote
Startup finance, answered.
Can I get asset finance with no trading history?
Yes — pre-revenue businesses can often be funded. Lenders look at your personal credit, deposit, and the asset being financed. Approval rates are around 60% through our specialist startup panel.
What deposit will I need?
Typically 20–30% for a startup. The higher the deposit, the more comfortable lenders are and the better the rate. Some lenders go as low as 10% for strong personal credit.
Does my personal credit matter?
Yes, significantly for startups. Since there's limited company credit data, lenders rely more heavily on director personal credit scores. A clean personal file opens more doors.
What assets can startups finance?
Almost anything — vans, vehicles, plant, machinery, equipment, fit-outs. Vehicles and hard assets with strong residual values get the best rates.
Will I need a business plan?
Not a formal 40-page document. A clear explanation of what the asset will be used for and how it generates revenue is usually enough.
How long does it take?
Decision in 24 hours is typical. Funding within 5–7 working days. Some deals complete faster.
Representative example
9.9% APR representative based on hire purchase of £25,000 over 36 months with a 10% deposit (£2,500). Monthly repayment £726. Total amount payable £28,636. Total cost of credit £6,136.
Rates depend on credit profile, asset type, deposit and term. AssetFi Ltd is a credit broker, not a lender. Commission disclosure.