Business Finance & Leasing for UK Businesses & Schools

Flexible funding without the upfront strain. From equipment leasing to education finance, ELS delivers fast approvals and sector-specific expertise.

  • Affordable, cashflow-friendly monthly payments
  • UK-compliant leasing options for schools & academies
  • Transparent terms with no hidden surprises

TRUSTED FUNDERS & PARTNERS

We work with Trusted funder Siemems
Our Partner in the UK & Canada - Armada Credit Group provide business finance & Leasing services
Premium Credit are a trusted funder of ELS
Room 12 are a trusted funding partner of ELS
PEAC are a trusted funder of ELS
We work with Fleximise for flexible business finance & leasing
YouLend provide corporate finance for ELS Clients
We work with MaxCorp a trusted finance partner
ELS are a proud member of East Midlands Chamber
ELS are a founding memeber of The Guild of Business Finance Professionals

Why Choose ELS for Business Finance?

Finding the right finance partner isn’t always straightforward.

Banks can be slow, and some brokers push one-size-fits-all products. At ELS, we take a different approach...

Listening first, then tailoring finance around your business or school.

Fast approvals (48–72 hours)

Time matters in business. That’s why most applications are approved within 2–3 working days, so you can move quickly.

Dedicated account manager

You’ll have a single point of contact who understands your sector and keeps the process simple from start to finish.

Flexible, transparent terms

We don’t believe in hidden fees. Every agreement is clear, tailored, and structured to fit your cashflow.

Startup-friendly options

Whether you’re a new clinic, school, or business, we offer finance that supports growth without draining reserves.

Proud Founders of the Guild of Business Finance Professionals

The Guild of Business Finance Professionals

At ELS, we believe in raising the standard of business finance. That’s why we’re proud to be founding members of the Guild of Business Finance Professionals. An independent body committed to ethics, excellence and education across the industry.

Business Finance & Leasing Options We Provide

At ELS, we know every business and school has different priorities. Our range of business finance & leasing options help UK schools and SMEs spread costs without strain, including...

Business Finance for Equipment & Business Technology Leasing

Equipment Leasing for SME's & Schools

Upgrade essential equipment without large upfront costs. From IT and office kit to medical and salon devices, we spread the cost into affordable monthly payments.

Need more detail? Learn more about Equipment Leasing and how it helps SME's spread costs

Business Finance, Funding and Cashflow

Cashflow Friendly Business Funding

Access working capital for VAT, tax and cashflow loans. Ideal for keeping operations smooth when bills or growth opportunities arrive at the same time.

Need more detail? Visit our Business Funding page to see some of your options.

Business Finance for Energy / Renewables for Business & Schools

Energy Finance for Net Zero Projects

Support your sustainability goals with funding for LED lighting, solar PV, battery storage, as well as new, emerging net-zero technologies.

Need more detail? Learn more about Energy Finance for your project

Education Funding for Schools and Academies from ELS

Compliant Education Finance

Compliant leasing for schools and academies, helping you invest in school equipment, renewable energy and LED solutions while staying within UK regulations.

Need more detail? Take a look at out our Education Finance for more.

Try Our Business Finance & Leasing Calculator

Want to see how much your finance could cost each month? Use our simple calculator to get an instant estimate (no obligation).

Loan Calculator
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*For illustration purposes only.  This is not an offer or quote for business finance. if you are new start business or educational / local authority entity these guidelines rates are not applicable.  Please contact us direct for a quote. 

Client Stories & Results

Real-world examples show how the right finance can unlock growth, savings, and sustainability.

ELS and their team are very professional and always deliver the best advice and the right solutions to finance our coffee machines and hot taps to our end users. 

Mark McDermott


Really pleased. 

Stuart has a keen focus on offering excellent customer service. 

J.H.

ELS has been really helpful in arranging finance solutions for our business!

A pleasure to deal with and would highly recommend.

Marcus Alexander

 CASE STUDY  

Primary School, Co. Antrim

  • Asset: LED Lighting
  • Result: 58% Reduction in electricity costs
  • 10 Year Savings: £310,665
  • Deposit: £0

This primary school accessed business finance & leasing to fund their ambitious project to slash energy costs and boost sustainability. By installing state-of-the-art, energy-efficient lighting, the school achieved a remarkable improvement in light quality. They cut lighting costs significantly, and are set to reduce carbon emissions by 336 tonnes over five years. This remarkable initiative, reducing electricity use for lighting, translates to over £24,000 of annual energy savings. They worked closely with ELS and the lighting provider. We tailored a 7-year agreement ensuring financial positivity throughout its term.

58%
Electricity Reduction
Reduction in Carbon Emissions: 336 tonnes
Current Progress
Current Progress
Reduction in Carbon Emissions
10 Year Savings: £310,655
Current Progress
Current Progress
Reduction in Carbon Emissions
Lease Finance for customers - catering and hospitality equipment
Lease Finance for Customers - LED Lighting Projects for Business & Schools
Lease finance for customers - Office, Technology & Computer equipment
Lease Finance for customers - Coffee & Shop Equipment

 CASE STUDY  

Multi Academy Trust, Manchester

  • Asset: LED Lighting Across 4 Schools
  • Result: 63% reduction in lighting costs
  • 10 Year Savings: £251,005
  • Deposit: £0

This school trust, encompassing four environmentally conscious schools, committed to enhancing their sustainability while enriching the learning environment. Driven by the goal to minimise their carbon footprint and energy usage, the trust invested in an LED lighting upgrade across all schools. This was executed with minimal disruption. This strategic move not only improved lighting quality but also achieved a remarkable 63% reduction in lighting costs. That translated to £251,005 in savings over a decade. Furthermore, this initiative significantly cut carbon emissions by 560 tonnes, showcasing the trust's dedication to environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility.

63%
Cost Reduction
Reduction in Carbon Emissions: 560 tonnes
Current Progress
Current Progress
Reduction in Carbon Emissions
10 Year Savings: £251,005
Current Progress
Current Progress
Reduction in Carbon Emissions
Lease Finance for customers - catering and hospitality equipment
Lease Finance for Customers - LED Lighting Projects for Business & Schools
Lease finance for customers - Office, Technology & Computer equipment
Lease Finance for customers - Coffee & Shop Equipment

 CASE STUDY  

Aesthetic Clinic, N. Ireland

  • Asset: Medical Aesthetic Laser Machine
  • Result: New service offer for clients
  • Deposit: £0
  • Payments: Affordable monthly repayments

A private medical clinic in Northern Ireland was looking to obtain a new laser machine for medical and aesthetic skin concerns. An £80k machine would make a significant impact on the company's cash flow, so they decided to explore alternative payment options.


The customer didn't want a traditional business loan and didn't want to own the machine at the end of the term. ELS arranged a suitable business finance & leasing agreement which met the customers' needs at affordable monthly repayments.

100%
Affordable
No upfront deposit 
Current Progress
Current Progress
Reduction in Carbon Emissions
Cashflow protected
Current Progress
Current Progress
Reduction in Carbon Emissions

FAQs – Business Finance & Leasing in the UK

What’s the difference between business finance and equipment leasing?

Business finance covers a range of funding options, while equipment leasing is a specific way to spread the cost of assets into monthly payments. With leasing, you don’t need a large upfront outlay, and costs can often be offset against taxable profits.

How quickly can I get business finance approval?

At ELS, most applications are approved within 48–72 hours. That means you can move ahead with equipment purchases or projects without delays.

Can schools and academies access compliant leasing?

Yes. We provide UK-compliant operating leases designed specifically for schools and Multi-Academy Trusts, so you can upgrade equipment or invest in energy projects while meeting regulations.

Can startups and small businesses apply for leasing or finance?

Absolutely. We regularly support new businesses with tailored business finance & leasing structures that help preserve cashflow while still investing in the right equipment.

What types of equipment can I lease through ELS?

Almost any business-critical asset... From IT and office kit to catering, medical and renewable energy equipment. Our Equipment Leasing page
has full details.

Are there tax advantages to leasing in the UK?

In many cases, lease payments can be treated as a business expense and offset against taxable profits. Always confirm specifics with your accountant.

How does business leasing work in the UK?

Business finance & leasing in the UK is regulated by the FCA and there are a range of funders and brokers who can help you access finance for your business sector. Our recommendation is to speak to whole of market brokers, like ELS, to enable you to access a range of funders to find the best finance product to suit your business needs. 

Ready to Get Started with Business Finance & Leasing?

Business finance & leasing doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re a school, SME, or energy project, we’ll make sure you get the funding you need and approvals in as little as 48 hours.

The Latest On Finance And Business From ELS

Insights and Advice from the ELS Team

ELS: Supporting Our Community

Menphys Sports Club

Sports provisions for young people with disabilities

A charity dedicated to supporting children and young people with disabilities. Through the Menphys Sport Club, ELS are able to contribute to creating inclusive sporting opportunities for all.

Supporters of Lamp Business Club

Lamp Mental Health Project

Passionate about mental health in Leicestershire

Supporting individuals with mental health challenges. Lamp’s Business Club allows ELS to contribute to a cause that’s close to our hearts, ensuring that everyone has the support they need.

Want us to call you back?  Don't hesitate to drop us a message and we'll get in touch shortly. 

Stuart McKee

FOUNDER, ELS

"Unlock your Potential,

not your capital."

ELS - EQUIPMENT LEASING SOLUTIONS

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