South West Business Finance is a broker of credit and not a lender. South West Business Finance is a trading name of Aspire Commercial Finance Limited Registered in England & Wales under No: 09076273. Aspire Commercial Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority( 690089) also a member of the NACFB( 23637). funding solutions for your business and property needs
ADVERTISING FEATURE
FINANCE
Avoiding costly mistakes – how SMEs can take control of their business finance
by South West Business Finance( SWBF)
Running a business is never straightforward, but financial management remains one of the most critical and most overlooked responsibilities. Poor decisions can trigger cashflow crises, limit growth, and in some cases, lead to business failure.
Research from Intuit QuickBooks shows 57 % of UK small business owners have faced cashflow issues, with over a third unable to pay debts because of them. At South West Business Finance( SWBF), we see these problems regularly – and we know how to help you avoid them.
“ Finance isn’ t just about numbers, it’ s about enabling opportunity and growth. Our role is to help business owners make confident decisions that are right for them now, and for the future.” Dan Smith, Managing Director, SWBF
The Common Pitfalls From borrowing too much or too little, to choosing the wrong finance product or missing hidden fees, we see the same challenges time and again. Other pitfalls include failing to plan for growth, ignoring alternative finance options, or trying to manage it all alone. The good news? All of these can be avoided with the right guidance.
Our top tips:
• Manage cashflow proactively – Profit on paper means nothing if you run out of cash.
• Borrow the right amount – Avoid repayment strain or stalled plans.
• Match finance to your cashflow cycle – Don’ t let repayment terms disrupt operations.
• Check the total cost – Factor in arrangement fees, early exit charges, and hidden extras.
• Plan ahead – Seek finance before you need it urgently.
• Consider alternatives – Invoice finance, asset finance, and bridging loans can be game-changers.
• Get expert advice – From a trusted partner and a reliable and recommended broker.
“ We believe in building relationships, not just completing transactions. Understanding our clients’ ambitions means we can structure finance that genuinely supports their goals.” Steve Barrett, Managing Director, SWBF
Why Use a Broker? Finance isn’ t one-size-fits-all. The right solution depends on your business model, cashflow patterns, and growth strategy. We work with over 200 lenders to match businesses with funding that truly fits, from cashflow loans to property development finance.
Our independence means our advice is shaped entirely by what’ s right for you, not by lender quotas or off-the-shelf products.
FAQs from Business Owners
Why is business finance important? It underpins every part of your operation, from paying suppliers to investing in growth.
What’ s the difference between a broker and a bank? A bank offers only its own products. A broker searches the whole market to find the right fit for your needs.
What’ s the most common mistake SMEs make? Failing to manage cashflow, even profitable businesses can fail if money runs dry.
Avoiding these common finance mistakes isn’ t about being cautious, it’ s about being informed. With the right support, you can protect your business today and position it for sustainable growth.
Find out more at: www. swbf. co. uk
Steve Barrett and Daniel Smith, Co-Founders, SWBF
SWBF Economic Briefing October 2025
This October, we are delighted to welcome respected economist Mark Berrisford-Smith to present our annual Economic Briefing, offering insights into the market outlook for South West businesses.
Invitations will be sent in September – spaces are limited, so if you would like to register your interest please email: nataliecharteris @ swbf. co. uk
Scan here to compare loans and start your search for development finance, bridging finance and commercial mortgages. A representative from SWBF will contact you to discuss your options.
South West Business Finance is a broker of credit and not a lender. South West Business Finance is a trading name of Aspire Commercial Finance Limited Registered in England & Wales under No: 09076273. Aspire Commercial Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority( 690089) also a member of the NACFB( 23637). funding solutions for your business and property needs
01225 800849 www. swbf. co. uk
THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2025 7