UK businesses are benefiting from a government loans initiative, it has been stated.
A government lending programme has offered a timely boost to many firms' business accounts, it has been reported.
Small business minister Lord Davies points out that the Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) has seen more than 8,450 companies receive state-backed financial assistance totalling more than £580 million to help boost cash flow, invest in new equipment and create jobs.
Under the EFG, 84 per cent of those questioned claimed the programme has helped improve their prospects of survival.
"These impressive results show the government is providing real help to businesses when they need it, helping to secure jobs and give businesses the capital they need to invest and grow," he states.
However, those looking to fund further growth may want to consider taking out business credit cards or seek out competitive business bank accounts in order to make the most of their money.
Such news comes as a recent study by Lloyds TSB Commercial revealed that the balance of firms expecting orders, sales and profits to increase over the next six months stands at 16 per cent, the highest score seen for two years.
Free Automated Transactions Tariff as standard (at the end of the Free Banking Period)
Your own Local Business Manager – backed up by an Award Winning Telephony Team**
Bank in branch, online or by phone
We offer more than you’d expect from a bank…
Free CREDITFOCUS Classic - an award wining credit management tool***
We offer up to 45 minutes’ free consultation with local professional experts in accountancy, marketing and law.
Free Local Business seminars
Free - Securely back up 2GB of your business data
Access to unique business management software so that you can spend less time on admin and more time on what you love doing
* There is no charge for standard transactions for two years if the Barclays Business Essentials and CREDITFOCUS Pro or Barclays Business Essentials Plus and CREDITFOCUS Pro or Barclays Business Manager and CREDITFOCUS Pro are purchased at the time of opening the account. This is only applicable for new businesses opening their account with Barclays. This applies to everyday Sterling, debit and credit transactions and the maintenance fee. Please note: accounts must be active.
**Best Large Call Centre in 2007 European Call Centre Awards
***Available to small businesses with a turnover below £1m