Innovation funding to accelerate business growth
If you’re an innovative UK SME investing in Research and Development or innovative technology, we can help you access capital quicker, so you can keep growing without dilution or disruption.
Advisors
Looking to work with a dedicated innovation lender?
We work alongside accountants, advisers, VC/PE Funds and innovation specialists to deliver straightforward, non-dilutive funding for ambitious SMEs across the UK.
Which SPRK solution is right for you?
R&D Advance Loan
For quick cash flow solutions
Eligibility
All companies
Term
3 to 12 months
Repayments
When HMRC pays.
R&D Flexi Loan
For funds that work around you
Eligibility
Early stage revenue
Term
12 to 24 months
Repayments
R&D with payments on your terms.
R&D Term Loan
For timeframes that work for you
Eligibility
Revenue generating
Term
36 months
Repayments
Monthly principle and interest.
Eligibility
All companies
Term
3 to 12 months
Repayments
When grant body pays.
Our simple four step process
Check
eligibility
Step 1: Start our digital application process
Apply
Online
Step 2: Complete application through our secure Portal
Get your
Decision
Step 3: Quick and transparent decisions
Funds
paid out
Step 4: Funding within minutes of signing
Innovation Funding that moves at your pace.
We work with ambitious small businesses in the UK and high-growth startups building what’s next through research, technology, and innovation.
Innovation cycles and funding cycles rarely move in sync. SPRK ensures your innovation funding keeps pace with your ambition through flexible innovation loans and R&D tax credit loans.
We provide smart, non-dilutive funding that funds cash advances on R&D tax credits and UK Innovation Grants. Backed by the British Business Bank, we combine institutional strength with a straightforward, founder-focused approach.
Built by people who understand innovation. Designed to keep you moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is SPRK Capital?
SPRK is a dedicated lender to businesses engaged in innovation. Working with British Business Bank and an Investor Partner of Innovate UK, we provide capital that moves at the speed your business needs. SPRK provides R&D tax credit loans and Innovation Grant Advance Loans to a range of companies, including those that are loss-making, pre-revenue and high-growth.
Does my business need to be making a profit to be eligible for a SPRK loan?
No, you don’t need to be making a profit to be eligible for a SPRK loan. SPRK typically lends to loss-making businesses, many of which are also pre-revenue.
What sectors does SPRK lend to?
SPRK lends to businesses across all innovation-driven sectors, including technology, life sciences, software, engineering, clean energy, and others. SPRK does not lend to construction companies, money lending businesses, or those where there may be a moral hazard from lending, such as weapons manufacturing or adult entertainment.
Does SPRK take Personal Guarantees?
No, SPRK does not typically take Personal Guarantees. SPRK loans are secured against the company.
What security does SPRK take?
SPRK takes a first charge fixed and floating debenture over the business. The loan is secured against company assets, not personal assets.
What happens if I already have an existing charge on my business when applying to SPRK?
SPRK will request a first charge over the business and if this is not available we can discuss this with you on a case by case basis.
How long does it take to get funded?
Post approval SPRK look to issue loan agreements, borrowers have 72 hours to sign these agreements and funding is typically the same day as signing.
Can I pre-pay my SPRK loan?
Yes, you can pre-pay any SPRK loan at any time without penalties.
How do the British Business Bank and Innovate UK work with SPRK?
SPRK is an accredited delivery partner of the British Business Bank (BBB), meaning that the BBB lends capital through SPRK. SPRK is the only accredited alternative finance provider on the Innovate UK Investor Partnerships programme. We are trusted by Government bodies to accelerate UK-led innovation.
