The Enterprise Finance Guarantee scheme (EFGS) is a government-backed loan scheme that provides guarantees to lenders for loans made to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The scheme is designed to help SMEs access finance, which can be difficult for them to obtain from traditional lenders.
The EFGS is available to SMEs that meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a turnover of less than 45 million and employing fewer than 250 people. The scheme provides guarantees of up to 75% of the loan amount, which can make it easier for SMEs to secure finance. Lenders typically require a personal guarantee from the business owner before they will approve a loan under the EFGS.