Growth Guarantee Scheme eligibility: who qualifies?

Answer in brief

To be eligible, your business needs turnover of up to £45 million, must trade in the UK, must make more than half its income from trading, must have a viable proposal, must not be a business in difficulty, and must be within subsidy limits. Each lender then applies its own credit checks.

Scheme rules

Turnover up to £45 million, counted across the group
Carrying out trading activity in the UK
More than 50% of income from trading activity
A viable business proposal, as judged by the lender
Not a business in difficulty or in relevant insolvency proceedings
Within subsidy limits for publicly funded support

What lenders check on top

The scheme doesn't set a credit score threshold. Lenders look at affordability, trading history, accounts and bank statements as they would for any facility. The guarantee gives them more confidence to approve viable businesses they might otherwise decline.

Sector limits

Some sectors, such as primary agriculture and fisheries, have lower caps. Businesses in scope of the Northern Ireland Protocol have a £1 million maximum.

Questions and answers

Can a start-up use the Growth Guarantee Scheme?

Possibly. Eligibility depends on the scheme rules and the lender's own criteria, and many lenders want to see some trading history first.

Can sole traders apply?

Yes, if they meet the scheme rules. Lenders' own criteria still apply.

Check your Growth Guarantee Scheme options →

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