Guide
UKEF export finance and insurance products
Government-backed funding, insurance, and guarantees for UK exporters - record £14.5 billion support in 2024-25.
UK Export Finance (UKEF) is the UK's export credit agency, providing government-backed finance and insurance to help UK companies export. In 2024-25, UKEF provided a record £14.5 billion supporting 667 exporters (74% SMEs) and 70,000 jobs across the UK.
UKEF's mission: Ensure no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance, operating sustainably at no net cost to taxpayers.
Export Working Capital - finance to fulfil contracts
When you've won an export contract but need working capital to fulfil it, UKEF's Export Working Capital Scheme provides government guarantees enabling banks to lend. Particularly useful for pre-shipment working capital like raw materials, production costs, and inventory.
Bond Support - free up cash collateral
International contracts often require performance bonds or advance payment guarantees. Banks typically demand cash deposits as collateral. UKEF's Bond Support Scheme provides 80% guarantees, allowing banks to release that cash so you can use it as working capital instead.
Free regional advisory service
Not sure which product suits your needs? UKEF has Export Finance Managers in every UK region offering free, no-obligation consultations. They'll help you understand your options and guide you through applications.
Country coverage
UKEF can support exports to over 100 countries. However, there are restrictions for some destinations and sectors: