Businesses have been warned that the government stimulus loan program, launched today, is opening its books to businesses seeking funds to support post-Covid growth.

But unlike its predecessors, the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Program and Bounce Loan Program, the Trade-In Loan Program is offered on standard bank commercial terms. This means, according to accountants, business and financial advisers Kreston Reeves, that businesses will be forced to pay arrangement fees and repay loans with interest upfront.

John Walsham, business development and financing consultant at Kreston Reeves and former commercial banker, said: “Companies will be able to borrow between £ 25,000 and £ 10 million for term loans and overdrafts, or between £ 1,000 and £ 10 million. £ Against Bill Funding and Asset Funding. Depending on the loan product you use, the terms can go up to six years.

‘The payback loan program is open to any UK business, including those that have borrowed under previous schemes, which is viable or would have been viable without the coronavirus pandemic and is not subject to litigation collective insolvency. Companies will need to demonstrate that they have been affected by the global pandemic to qualify.

“The borrowed money can be used for legitimate business purposes, including managing cash flow, investing and supporting growth.

“Questions had been raised as to whether directors would be required to provide personal guarantees, and although guidelines were issued late today, it has now been confirmed that they will not be required to borrow below. of £ 250,000.

“Lenders are expected to charge a premium at their usual rates, knowing that in many cases they will rely solely on the government guarantee as collateral.

“Businesses should note, however, that the 80% government guarantee does not mean they are exempt from loan liability. If a business defaults and a lender cannot recover the borrowed money, then they can turn to the government who will then reimburse the lender for up to 80% of the loan value. “

Businesses should always seek advice when considering borrowing or raising funds, and a list of approved lenders should be announced before the launch date.