Seizing the moment: How Brokers Can Support SMEs as the Economy Shifts

August has been a month of mixed signals. On one hand, confidence among UK businesses is holding up. Lloyds’ index rose to 54%, its fourth month of growth, with trading prospects climbing to 63%, the strongest since 2014. Yet overall sentiment dipped to 44%, showing many firms still feel uncertain.

Inflation climbed to 3.8% and is expected to reach 4% in September. Rising costs continue to squeeze margins, especially in services, where the CBI has reported declining activity and weaker demand. At the same time, the Bank of England has cut interest rates to 4%, its fifth reduction this year, making finance cheaper but not necessarily easier to access.

For SMEs, this creates a contradictory landscape. They need working capital to cover costs and invest in growth, but many remain cautious about long-term commitments. This tension is exactly where brokers add value, advising clients on short-term funding options that balance flexibility with affordability.

The market itself is shifting. Traditional high-street banks are retreating from SME lending, with 71% of brokers confirming reduced appetite. This has left a funding gap of almost £90 billion. Alternative lenders are stepping in, now responsible for around 60% of gross SME lending. Demand for quick, adaptable finance is only set to grow as September’s autumn budget approaches. With a £41.2 billion fiscal gap, the government is under pressure to act. Possible tax rises and new supplier payment reporting rules could tighten liquidity further, meaning demand for quick access to cash will only rise heading into Q4.

Cubefunder helps brokers meet this demand. We provide £5,000–£100,000 business loans with terms from 3 to 24 months, fast approvals, and repayment plans that adapt to cash flow.

Through our Broker Panel, you can offer clients a straightforward route to funding when speed and flexibility matter most. You’ll also gain dedicated support, repeat commission opportunities, and a lender that says yes where others say no.

It’s about giving SMEs the right finance, right when they need it.