Funding Sources

DSL Business Finance Ltd (DSL) is a not-for-profit responsible finance provider based in Glasgow. The organisation was established in 1993 in order to improve the economic and financial conditions of small businesses and low-income entrepreneurs in Glasgow. Over the years, DSL has expanded its work all over Scotland.

DSL specialises in lending to individuals and businesses to create jobs and enterprise in Scotland. They offer a range of financial products and services. They are committed to providing high quality products and services that are affordable and accessible. Their loan products are list below:

Scottish Microfinance Fund

The Scottish Microfinance Fund (SMF) is available to both new and established businesses, with the prime objective of supporting enterprises in Scotland. SMF is part of the Scottish Government’s Holding Fund of £40.5m and is delivered by DSL Business Finance Ltd on behalf of the Scottish Government and is supported by European Regional Development Fund and The Start-Up Loans company. The main features are: 

• Loans from £500 – £25,000
• Fixed Interest Rate of 6%
• No administration fees
• No penalties for early settlement

DSL Business Loan Fund

DSL’s main loan fund can be access for business proposals which do not meet the criteria for the SMF, Loans from DSL fund are backed by the British Business Bank’s Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) Scheme license which is backed by the UK Government. Key features are: 

• Loans from £1,000 – £50,000
• Fixed Interest Rates Between 6% to 9% (dependent upon risk)
• 2% Administration Fee
• No penalties for early settlement