Business Finance for Female Founders
Women make up over half of the UK’s population, yet they remain underrepresented in small business ownership. While female entrepreneurship is steadily increasing, only around one in three UK SMEs is led by a woman. A lack of access to funding is one of the most significant barriers to changing that, whether it’s support to get started, expand, or invest in new resources.
The good news? The landscape is evolving. More alternative lenders and funding platforms are emerging to support female entrepreneurs and help close the gender funding gap. Organisations like Female Founder Finance are actively working to make funding more accessible by offering tailored support, championing women-led businesses, and connecting founders with finance solutions that match their growth ambitions.
"The biggest hurdle isn't always money, it's knowing what's out there and realising you deserve access to it"
Roxanne Goodman, Founder of Female Founder Finance
Why Funding Matters for Female Entrepreneurs
The UK’s economic growth and innovation depend on a thriving small business community - and women play a crucial role in shaping that. However, just 6% of working-age women are currently engaged in entrepreneurial activity, compared to 10% of men.
Improving access to funding isn’t just about numbers; it’s about levelling the playing field. Business finance can empower women to launch, grow, and lead ventures that drive local economies, create jobs, and inspire the next generation of female founders.
Initiatives like the Investing in Women Code - a government-backed commitment by lenders, investors, and organisations to improve female entrepreneurs' access to finance - are helping to drive real change. Female Founder Finance proudly aligns with this mission, supporting transparency, accountability, and action to close the gender funding gap.
"A solid business plan is your passport to funding. Even if you’re not a numbers person, get comfortable with your figures – they tell your story."
Roxanne Goodman, Founder of Female Founder Finance
Types of Business Finance Available for Women
Whether you’re starting from scratch, scaling rapidly, or managing cashflow, there are finance options tailored to every stage of the journey.
Invoice Finance
Invoice finance helps you unlock the cash tied up in unpaid invoices, giving you quick access to working capital without waiting 30, 60, or 90 days for clients to pay.
It’s a flexible way to smooth out cash flow, cover day-to-day costs, and fund new opportunities - all without needing extra security. For female-led businesses, invoice finance can provide stability and growth without compromise.
Business Loans
Business loans offer flexible funding for a wide range of needs - from managing cashflow and purchasing equipment to covering tax bills, legal fees, or supporting business expansion.
You can choose between:
- Secured loans – typically backed by property or business assets, with lower interest rates and longer terms
- Unsecured loans – usually require a personal guarantee, with faster access and more flexible use
For female-led businesses, business loans can be a powerful tool - helping you retain ownership, build credit, and access tailored support. Some lenders also offer women-specific programmes, including mentorship and networking opportunities.
Revolving Credit Facilities
A revolving credit facility offers flexible, ongoing access to funds - similar to a business overdraft. You can draw down money as and when you need it, up to an agreed limit, and only pay interest on what you use.
It’s ideal for managing seasonal dips, unexpected expenses, or short-term cashflow gaps, giving you the freedom to respond quickly to your business’s needs.
For women in business, this type of facility offers financial independence and control, without long-term commitments.
Start-Up Loans
If you’re just getting started, a government-backed Start-Up Loan can help turn your idea into a reality. You can borrow up to £25,000 at a fixed 6% interest rate, with no arrangement fees and repayment terms of up to 5 years.
Delivered through the British Business Bank, the scheme includes free support to help you build a business plan and financial forecasts.
To be eligible, you must be:
- Over 18 and a UK resident
- Trading for less than 3 years
- Running a UK-based business
Credit and affordability checks apply.
Start-Up Loans offer flexible funding while helping you build credit, retain ownership, and access support designed with women-led businesses in mind.
"Think of a revolving credit facility as your financial safety net – there when you need it, without weighing you down when you don’t."
Roxanne's top tip
Asset Finance
Asset finance helps you acquire vital equipment, vehicles, or machinery without the upfront cost - spreading payments over time to ease pressure on your cash flow.
Whether you're looking to lease, hire purchase, or refinance existing assets, this option allows you to invest in growth while keeping working capital free for day-to-day operations.
Property Finance
A commercial mortgage helps businesses buy, refinance, or redevelop commercial properties by borrowing against the property itself.
This finance option offers stability through property ownership, builds equity over time, and can provide fixed payments and potential tax benefits.
For female-led businesses, commercial mortgages offer a way to secure vital capital, build a lasting legacy, and access tailored support programs designed to empower women entrepreneurs.
HMRC Finance
HMRC liabilities like VAT and Corporation Tax can put pressure on cash flow. We work with a specialist funder who can spread these payments over 3–12 months, helping you manage repayments in line with your budget.
They can pay HMRC directly or reimburse you if payment has already been made. Personal guarantees are only required for facilities over £150,000, and there’s no upper limit on loan size.
"Grants are competitive, so treat them like a pitch. Show your purpose, impact, and why you stand out"
Roxanne's top tip
Business Grants for Women
Unlike loans, grants don’t need to be repaid - but they are competitive and can take time to secure. Here are some female-focused grant options:
- Women in Innovation Awards
- Cartier Women’s Initiative
- Female Founders Fund
- Global Fund for Women
- UK Government-backed initiatives
- Scottish Enterprise Women in Business
Top Networks for Female Founders
Funding is just one piece of the puzzle - a strong network can provide mentorship, advice, and collaboration.
- Women in Business Network – Local and national support groups
- The Women’s Chapter – Female founders supporting one another
- AllBright Collective – Resources, events, and mentorship
- Women Backing Women – Angel investors championing female-led ventures
- Bloomsbury Beginnings – A space for sustainable, social impact startups
"Your network is as valuable. Surround yourself with people who cheer you on and challenge you to think bigger."
Roxanne's top tip
Are You Eligible for a Business Loan?
Eligibility varies, but you’ll usually need to meet the following criteria:
- Identify as a female business owner
- Be aged 18 or over and UK-based
- Your business must be registered in the UK
- Have been trading for at least 6 months (some exceptions for start-ups)
- Be able to demonstrate a minimum turnover (depends on loan type)
- In some cases, be willing to provide security or a personal guarantee
Documents You May Need
To speed up your application process, it helps to prepare:
- Business registration and contact information
- A cashflow forecast or business plan
- Bank statements
- Details of existing debts or liabilities
- Annual turnover or monthly revenue
- Identification and proof of address
What Can the Loan be Used For?
Female Founder Finance supports a wide range of uses, including:
- Hiring staff or covering payroll
- Purchasing equipment or raw materials
- Expanding into new premises
- Managing VAT or tax payments
- Launching a new product or service
- Upgrading technology or machinery
- Increasing inventory or stock
- Marketing and advertising efforts
Why Use Business Finance?
Keep full ownership – Unlike investment, you don’t give up equity.
Flexible repayment terms – Choose a repayment style that fits your business.
Tailored solutions – Get matched with funding that suits your goals.
Quick access to capital – Many loans can be approved in days, not weeks.
Better rates for women – Some lenders offer preferential terms based on proven repayment reliability.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re looking for a start-up loan, exploring grants, or need support with working capital, Female Founder Finance is here to help. Our team understands the challenges female entrepreneurs face - and we’re here to help you navigate your options with clarity and confidence.
Let’s find the funding that fits your vision.
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Registered in England and Wales no. 10591615. Registered office: 5 Prospect Place, Millennium Way, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8HG.
Female Founder Finance is a trading style of Vernon Projects Limited. Vernon Projects Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN:1005423. Vernon Projects Limited are an authorised Credit Broker and not a lender.
Female Founder Finance may typically receive a payment (s) or other benefits from the finance provider if you decide to enter into an agreement with them depending on the chosen provider and their commission or incentive models. This will be disclosed with full transparency upon engagement.
Vernon Projects Limited is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 1005423
ICO Number ZB545208
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