Everything went smoothly from start to finish. Our admin team and business manager Habib were incredibly helpful offering plenty of advice and support. The initial paperwork is quite extensive but if... See more
Company replied
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Review summary
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What people talk about most
Reviews shaping this summary
From the moment I applied the process was fantastic. My initial advisor was warm and friendly, anything advice I needed I was given. Once I had completed the initial assessment I was then handed ove... See more
Company replied
Very worthwhile experience. They are open to giving people an opportunity based on their business plan, rather than on a credit score. Great to be given a chance where others wouldn’t. The business pl... See more
Company replied
My advisor Suzy was excellent, always in my corner. Always explained things well and really fought my battle for me! My loan took a little longer than expected but Suzy was always reassuring and expla... See more
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Company details
Written by the company
The Start Up Loans Company was established in September 2012, with a mission to help new and early-stage UK businesses access affordable finance and mentoring support.
Contact info
Steel City House, S1 2GQ, Sheffield , United Kingdom
- www.startuploans.co.uk
4.2
Great
486 reviews
No recent history of asking for reviews
This company hasn't invited customers recently, so reviews may not be representative
Replied to 85% of negative reviews
Typically replies within 1 month
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Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Rik,
Thank you for your positive review!
We’re thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with your Business Advisor. Congratulations on securing the loan, and we wish you all the best with your business.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Angella,
Thank you for your positive review!
We’re delighted to hear that you found our communication clear and precise. Your feedback encourages us to continue providing the best possible service to our customers.
We wish you all the very best with your business.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
You will not get a penny from them
According to my personal experience, this is the most unhelpful loan company, I must agree with other people who has got bad experience with them, don't waste your time, they are very keen to take all your information (ID, bank statement, savings account even CV), once they have all the information, they stop contact you and let you wait for weeks, then question you what you have put down on business plan, cashflow, etc. I read the review, I do believe these one star reviews were true, these 5 stars review were fake, probably their own employee left it. Please do not dealing with this company. The lady dealing with my case is call Victoria Fox, no reply from her for weeks, then drop me an email saying they are extremely busy, then ask me for more information. Telling me the loan is designed for people find it difficultly to obtain loan from somewhere else, they told me according to my financial situation, I don't need the loan from them, I can just use my savings. If people find it difficult to get a loan, you (as Start up loan company) will not lend any money to these people, don't go there, just wasting your time. Use your time better to focus on your business, rather then these time wasting people.
9 May 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Philip,
Thank you for your review. We sincerely apologise for the frustration and inconvenience you’ve encountered.
As per the process, we do require all applicants to provide the necessary information such as a business plan, cash flow forecast, personal survival budget, bank statements, and sometimes Business Advisors can also request proof of income, proof of ID, and proof of address.
Regarding your specific situation, we apologise for the lack of communication from your Business Advisor. Please note that you have the option to contact your Business Support Partner and raise your concerns, and they will look into this for you. However, if you need the contact details for them, please contact our customer service team via email at hello@startuploans.co.uk, and we will be more than happy to look into this further.
We value your feedback and thank you for bringing this to our attention. We aim to provide a better experience moving forward and appreciate your patience as we work to improve our services.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
4 weeks of time completely waste with no correspondence at all.
I made an application for a £20,000 start up loan to fund my new business venture’s cash flow in the first instance. The process was very quick to begin with and having passed the credit check I wrote a very detailed business plan, cash flow forecast and personal budget sheet at their request. This took me around 3 full working days to complete and proof read.
It’s now 4 weeks since my application was submitted and I haven’t had one single bit of correspondence from the company. I’ve called twice for an update and on both occasions was advised I’d receive a phone call and email shortly, neither of which materialised. I’m now looking at other options not through choice but that I have none. Very disappointed with the experience, I can see others are providing positive reviews but I have received the polar opposite experience. Absolutely no explanation whatsoever for the lack of contact either. Very strange. I wouldn’t recommend this route if you’re keen on putting your own time to good use.
8 May 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Louise,
Thank you for your review. We sincerely apologise for the lack of communication and the frustration you've experienced.
We understand how important it is to receive timely updates and support throughout the application process. Once you have submitted the application, you are assigned a business advisor by your business support partner (BSP), who should contact you within 5 working days of submission. We regret that this did not happen in your case.
We acknowledge the time and effort you invested in completing the detailed business plan, cash flow forecast, and personal budget sheet, and we apologise for the delay in providing feedback and updates on your application status.
If you would like to discuss your application further, we recommend speaking with your Business Support Partner so that they can investigate this matter further. Alternatively, feel free to contact us directly.
You can email us at hello@startuploans.co.uk, complete an enquiry form or you can call us on 0344 264 2600 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am to 5pm. Thursday, 9:30am to 5pm. Tuesday, we are closed between 10am-11am. (excluding public holidays).
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Dont Bother they take up way too much time and then refuse to Fund you because its against their terms of lending
Rubbish, I passed the credit check then waisted time filling in all the details and business plan!
Was told by our advisor this should sail through ( one of the Best applications they had see)
Then out the blue they wont lend to an energy brokerage even though its only 26% of our business model. DONT WASTE YOUR TIME
29 February 2024
Unprompted review
Seamless process
I was very impressed with the pace and quality of the decision making. There was a small change between the initial loan request and final result - moving to a tranched loan, but there was a clear logic behind this which was explained clearly.
I also appreciated the genuine interest in my business - thank you!
25 April 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Ian,
Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
We're delighted to hear that you found the process seamless and were impressed with the pace and quality of our decision-making. We strive to provide clear and transparent communication throughout, and we're glad that the rationale behind the adjustment to a tranched loan was explained clearly to you.
Your satisfaction is important to us, and we genuinely appreciate your feedback. We're committed to supporting your business and are grateful for the opportunity to work with you.
All the best with your business endeavours!
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
I felt very supported and informed…
I felt very supported and informed along every step of the process. My personal adviser was very approachable and knowledgeable and I would definitely like to work with him again and would recommend to my friends and family.
24 April 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Sian,
Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with us!
We're thrilled to hear that you felt supported and informed throughout the process. Providing excellent service and guidance to our customers is our top priority, and we're glad to hear that your business adviser was approachable and knowledgeable. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we're grateful for the opportunity to work with you.
We wish you all the very best!
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Not helpful at all.
I asked for additional support during the application process, and requested a phone conversation, but this was not offered. After they responded to one of my emails, I replied within a few minutes, only to receive a notification that the person had gone on holiday. By the time they returned, my credit check had expired. I really trusted that they would help me, but I am very disappointed. I spent time working on the business plan and meeting all their requests. I don’t understand the purpose of all this if they did not support me when I asked for it.
20 April 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Obreja,
Thank you for sharing your feedback with us.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and frustration you experienced during the application process. It's disappointing to hear that you did not receive the level of support you expected and that your request for additional assistance was not met promptly by your Business Support Provider (BSP). We understand the importance of timely communication and support, and we regret any miscommunication or delay that occurred.
We deeply regret that your BSP did not meet your expectations in this instance. Please know that we take your feedback seriously and will use it to improve our processes and communication moving forward.
If you would like to discuss your experience further or if there is anything we can do to assist you now, please feel free to reach out to us directly. You can email us at hello@startuploans.co.uk, complete an enquiry form or you can call us on 0344 264 2600 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am to 5pm. Thursday, 9:30am to 5pm. Tuesday, we are closed between 10am-11am. (excluding public holidays).
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Helpful, supportive, and friendly
Julia was very friendly and explained the entire process and helped me with correcting my application. I felt supported throughout the process. Her questions were more to help me ensure I have considered all options and challenges.
Thank you!
17 April 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Homy,
Thank you for your review.
We're delighted to hear that your business advisor provided you with helpful, supportive, and friendly service. Ensuring that our customers feel supported and informed throughout the process is always our goal, and we're glad your business advisor could assist you effectively.
We wish you all the best with your business.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
GREAT
Well just received the great news that my loan was approved.
Really pleased with the outcome and the service provided throughout the application. Special mention to Chloe Fenn and Alan Tweddell - thank you both, you have been fantastic!
16 April 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Ivan,
We're thrilled to hear that your loan was approved and that you're pleased with the outcome and the service provided during the application process.
We're delighted that your business advisor could assist you effectively.
Wishing you all the best on your entrepreneurial journey!
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Brilliant service
Brilliant service, fast and a great help on turning your ideas in a reality. As somebody who has never started a business I was Abit overwhelmed by it all but I had an incredible business advisor named Namita she helped me along the way with everything from start to finish. Great communication, and any questions I had she was always there to help.
14 March 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Jordan,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you found our service brilliant, fast, and instrumental in turning your ideas into reality.
It's fantastic to know that your dedicated business advisor, played a crucial role in guiding you through the process from start to finish. We're incredibly proud of our team's commitment to providing great communication and support to our customers, and we're delighted that your business advisor was there for you every step of the way.
Your feedback means a lot to us, and we truly appreciate your kind words.
Wishing you all the best on your entrepreneurial journey!
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
So unhelpful
So unhelpfull.... I signed up years ago with an email address I cant remember and never finished application. I tried to sign up again with my NI number, name and date of birth. Apparently as I dont know this old email I am barred from ever signing up again. Lady on the phone could not have been more unhelpful.
Edit: someone on email was super helpful and has managed to help me locate my account.
26 March 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Ben,
I'm truly sorry to hear about your experience, and I apologise for any inconvenience caused during your attempt to sign up again.
For security reasons, if you've previously registered on our website, we do ask for confirmation of the details we hold on file. If you're unable to recall the email address used during your previous registration, we understand. In such cases, we offer alternative verification methods such as confirming your date of birth, national insurance number, full address, or registered phone number.
I'm sorry to hear that you found our agent unhelpful during your phone call. Your feedback is valuable to us, and we take it seriously. Please reach out to us at hello@startuploans.co.uk, and we'll look into this matter further to ensure that you receive the assistance you need.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
What a load of rubbish they were ment…
What a load of rubbish they were ment to help you through the process but all they did was to put up brick walls they never once explained how to fill out forms take my advice never approach that site all they will do is make it impossible total rubbish if you gave them instructions they could not follow them
21 March 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear David,
Thank you for sharing your feedback, although I'm truly sorry to hear about your dissatisfaction with our service. We genuinely aim to provide comprehensive support throughout the application process, and I apologise if your experience fell short of your expectations.
I'd like to clarify that we do offer free application support to our applicants. Upon submission of your application, you are assigned a dedicated Business Support Partner, who in turn assigns you a dedicated Business Advisor. Their primary goal is to assist you in preparing your application for assessment by aiding with documents such as the business plan, cash flow forecast, and personal survival budget. They work closely with you to ensure your application is well-prepared and ready for review.
While our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way, I understand your frustration if you felt that the support provided was not sufficient. It's important to note that while our advisors can guide you through the process and assist with document preparation, they are unable to fill out the documents on your behalf.
I sincerely apologise if there was a misunderstanding or if our support did not meet your needs. I encourage you to reach out to your assigned Business Support Partner to discuss your concerns directly. Alternatively, you can contact our customer service team at hello@startuploans.co.uk, and we will ensure that your concerns are addressed promptly.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
great experience fantastic and friendly service
My journey with Virgin Start Up has been nothing short of extraordinary. Working closely with Ben Leon was a game-changer; his expertise and dedication transformed my business plan into a masterpiece, paving the way for the funding I had envisioned. Ben's unwavering commitment and tireless efforts deserve endless praise, and I cannot thank him enough for his invaluable contributions.
The entire experience with Virgin StartUp was nothing short of exceptional. From start to finish, every interaction exuded professionalism and efficiency, leaving me in awe of the seamless process they provided. The timely manner in which everything was concluded further showcased their commitment to excellence.
I wholeheartedly recommend Virgin StartUp to anyone in search of a business loan. Their team's passion, expertise, and unwavering support make them a standout choice for entrepreneurs looking to bring their visions to life. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to Ben Leon and the entire Virgin StartUp team for making my journey a truly remarkable and uplifting experience.
29 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Kamil,
Thank you for your incredibly kind words! We're delighted to hear about your extraordinary journey with your Business Support Partner (BSP). It's fantastic to know that your business advisor's expertise and dedication helped transform your business plan into a masterpiece and paved the way for the funding you envisioned. We're truly grateful for your recognition of your business advisor's unwavering commitment and tireless efforts.
We're delighted that your entire experience with your BSP was exceptional, from start to finish. Providing professionalism and efficiency in every interaction is something we strive for, and we're glad to hear that it left you in awe of the seamless process we provide. Your acknowledgment of the timely manner in which everything was concluded further validates our commitment to excellence.
Thank you for recommending Start Up Loans to others in search of a business loan. We're honoured to have played a part in bringing your vision to life, and we appreciate your heartfelt gratitude to your business advisor and the entire Business Support Partner team. It's been a pleasure supporting you, and we look forward to seeing your business flourish.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Edward helped me throughout the whole…
Edward helped me throughout the whole process. I initially done the credit check and completed the business plan, cash flow forecast & survival budget before speaking to Edward. He then reviewed it asked me for some more documents such as bank statements savings etc to back up what I said in the plan. He emailed over some changes that I should make which I did. Three days later I was told I was accepted.
27 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Ayana,
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that your business advisor provided you with valuable support throughout the entire process. It's wonderful that you took the initiative to complete the necessary steps beforehand, and your business advisor's guidance helped streamline the process even further.
We're delighted that you were accepted and look forward to seeing your business thrive.
Wishing you every success with your endeavours.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Very good experience
Very good experience! Helpful and good communication!
27 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Aimiliana,
Thank you for your feedback! We're delighted to hear that you had a very good experience with Start Up Loans. Providing helpful assistance and maintaining good communication are top priorities for us
Congratulations on securing the loan.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Vasiliki,
Thank you for sharing your positive experience with Start Up Loans! We're thrilled to hear that you found the process enjoyable, and we're delighted that your business advisor was able to provide you with helpful assistance.
Wishing you every success with your endeavours.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Great people to work with
The entire process was exceptionally clear and straightforward to navigate within the application. Martin Menezes, my assigned representative, efficiently handled my application. He was very polite and proactive with his engagement with me, completing tasks promptly, which greatly contributed to meeting my project timeline.
27 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Paul,
Thank you for your feedback! I'm glad to hear that you found the Start Up Loan application process exceptionally clear and straightforward. It's great to know that your assigned business advisor, provided efficient and proactive assistance, ensuring tasks were completed promptly and contributing to meeting your project timeline.
We're committed to providing excellent service, and I'm pleased we could make your experience positive.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Communication was spot on
Communication was spot on, my business advisor (Tina) made my life 10 Times easier by keeping me updated with everything was needed to know. Fast and efficient
26 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Alexandru,
Thank you for your positive feedback! I'm delighted to hear that your Business Support Partner's communication was spot on and that your Business Advisor made your experience 10 times easier by keeping you updated promptly.
Many congratulations on receiving the loan and all the very best!
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
Horrible (maybe racist) experience
My interaction with Virgin Startup and the Startup Loan Company has been profoundly disappointing and frustrating. Despite having a robust business proposal and holding an Innovator Founder Visa, I faced significant obstacles during the loan application process, ultimately resulting in rejection.
The communication between the two organizations, particularly between Jamie from the Startup Loan Company and Caroline Fishburn from Virgin Startup, was inconsistent and confusing. While Caroline acknowledged the relevance of my visa type, Jamie asserted that it rendered me ineligible due to uncertainties regarding visa terms.
Throughout our correspondence, I felt that my concerns were not adequately addressed. Despite my repeated requests for clarification, I received vague responses that failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the rejection.
Moreover, the lack of clarity regarding visa eligibility criteria and the absence of my visa type from the exclusion list on the Startup Loan Company's website further compounded the issue. This lack of transparency left me feeling misled and frustrated.
Despite assurances of training and efforts to improve communication, the overall experience has left a sour taste. It's evident that there are significant gaps in the processes and communication channels between Jamie from the Startup Loan Company and Caroline from Virgin Startup, resulting in a detrimental impact on applicants like myself.
In conclusion, I cannot recommend Virgin Startup and the Startup Loan Company based on my experience. The lack of clarity, inconsistent communication, and ultimately, the rejection of my application due to visa issues reflect poorly on their professionalism and customer service standards.
I hope my feedback serves as constructive criticism for both Jamie and Caroline to improve their processes and ensure a smoother experience for future applicants.
---
This review reflects my genuine experience and dissatisfaction with the services provided by Virgin Startup and the Startup Loan Company.
7 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Start Up Loans
Dear Jasraj,
I am sorry to hear that you were unhappy with your application experience.
We would like to highlight that the Start Up Loans scheme supports a diverse range of small business owners, with ethnic minorities representing 21% of all successful applicants: https://www.startuploans.co.uk/achievements/.
All applications are assessed individually to ensure that the applicant and their business meet the scheme criteria, which include that the applicant must have the right to live and work in the UK, and that this is guaranteed for the duration of the loan term. Whilst we understand how disappointing it is when a business cannot access the funding it needs to grow, we are unfortunately unable to approve applications which do not meet the criteria for the loan.
We note your feedback regarding the Eligibility FAQs on the Start Up Loans website, which we are currently reviewing, to ensure that applicants’ expectations are set appropriately when applying for a loan. I am sorry for the frustration you describe in relation to this. Please be assured we take all feedback very seriously and use this to inform improvements to the scheme.
Whilst I am unable to discuss specific applications on this platform, I would invite you to contact us directly on hello@startuploans.co.uk so that we can assist.
Kind regards,
Saj, Start Up Loans Customer Service Team
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