Our Story
Elite Business Funding was co-founded in 2018 by Craig and Charles, who first worked together in the UK SME lending market back in 2012. With over 30 years of combined experience across banking, commercial finance, and alternative lending, they recognised that businesses and property investors needed a partner who could bridge the gap between traditional banks and the fast-growing world of alternative finance.
Built on trust, expertise, and a relationship-driven approach, Elite was created to give clients more choice, greater flexibility, and tailored solutions designed around their specific goals. From start-ups to seasoned property investors, Craig and Charles remain hands-on as directors; ensuring that every client gets the right funding, on the right terms, at the right time.
What We Do
With a proven track record, we have arranged over £100 million in commercial funding, successfully facilitating tailored finance solutions for hundreds of SMEs and property investors. From small start-ups to established enterprises, our results demonstrate both capability and commitment; helping clients secure the capital they need to grow, thrive, and unlock new opportunities.
Our Approach
In many ways, we see ourselves as the modern replacement for the traditional bank managers of the past; only with far more options and many more opportunities to say yes. Relationship-driven and consultative in our approach, we take the time to understand every client’s requirements so we can secure the best possible products and terms.
We take pride in watching our clients grow, and many describe us as an extended part of their team. This is reflected in our testimonials and highlighted by how we’ve supported many clients with multiple funding solutions over time as they have grown their businesses.
Our Network
With access to hundreds of high street banks, challenger lenders, alternative funders, and private finance providers, we combine breadth of choice with deep expertise. Our knowledge and industry contacts ensure that every client gets the right finance, on the right terms, when it matters most.
Charles Groves
Charles has spent many years working in the Wealth Management (IFA) industry in both London and Luxembourg. During this time, he worked with one of the world’s leading independent financial advisories with more than $10 billion under advice from 80,000 clients in 100 countries.
Charles has over 5 years’ experience in the alternative finance sector working for a lender in both Underwriting and Relationship Manager roles. He has also worked extensively in finance, construction, hospitality, Law and customer service positions.
Beyond the office, Charles is a passionate outdoorsman; he enjoys trekking, lake and river fishing and spending time out in nature. He is also obsessed with health and fitness and is a regular fixture at the gym although he does also enjoy a good TV series binge session too.
Craig Childs
Craig is a co-founder and director of Elite Business Funding, bringing over 20 years of experience in financial services, merchant services, and online payments. Having worked for Lloyds Bank, Bank of Scotland, and a Uk start up alternative lender, he has spent the past 13 years specialising in commercial finance, supporting both businesses and property investors while witnessing the alternative finance market grow from its infancy.
After working in the industry, Craig went on to co-found Elite Business Funding, with a shared vision of providing SMEs and property investors with a trusted, straightforward route to funding. Known for his persistence and expertise, Craig has built a strong reputation for finding solutions in even the most complex cases.
Away from work, Craig is a lifelong supporter of his hometown football club, Southend United. A firm believer in keeping active, he’s a regular at the gym and enjoys playing golf. He also enjoys listening to live music and travelling in his spare time and is always eager to explore new countries and cities.
MISSION
Our mission is to empower UK SMEs and property investors by making finance more accessible, flexible, and transparent. Through a boutique, relationship-driven service backed by decades of expertise, we ensure every client gets the right funding on the right terms, when they need it most.
- To source and provide customers and UK businesses with the commercial finance they require
- Treating each customer individually and gaining a clear understanding of their business and finance requirement in order to identify the most suitable product for their goals
- Keeping at the forefront of changes, updates and new products within the commercial finance industry
- Striving to achieve an unequalled level of customer satisfaction
- Combing the use of Fintech and online automation technology with a personable dedicated relationship manager approach where you can pick up the phone and speak with someone whenever required
VISION
Our vision is to be recognised as the trusted partner for businesses seeking finance; a dedicated team that provides choice, expertise, and long-term support, helping clients see us not just as brokers but as part of their journey to growth.
VALUES
We stand for integrity, partnership, and accountability. We believe in innovation and adaptability, staying ahead of change to deliver smarter solutions. We value teamwork, continuous improvement, and above all, a client-first approach that builds lasting relationships and real results.
- Open and honest relationships built on integrity
- Providing a service that is efficient and adds value
- Embracing change and innovation
- Providing excellent customer service that surpasses expectations
- A positive working environment based on mutual respect, a supportive team spirit and loyalty
- Dedication to learning and ongoing personal and professional development to remain at the top of our game