Supporting Cumbrian businesses from start-up to scale-up with tailored banking, lending, and financial services. As a member-owned institution, we reinvest profits into better rates and local economic growth.
From sole traders to limited companies — straightforward banking with no fuss. All accounts include free online banking, mobile app access, and UK-based customer support.
Our lending team works from our Carlisle headquarters and knows the Cumbrian economy intimately. Whether you're in hospitality in the Lake District, manufacturing in Workington, or professional services in Penrith, we understand your market and make decisions locally — not in a distant London office.
We know that business opportunities don't wait. Our streamlined application process delivers decisions on loans up to £100,000 within 48 hours, and we provide personal feedback on every application — even unsuccessful ones — so you understand our reasoning.
Every business customer gets a dedicated relationship manager with a direct mobile number. No call centres, no automated menus — just experienced bankers who know your business and are empowered to help. Annual business reviews included at no cost.
As a credit union, we're owned by our members, not shareholders. This means we can offer fairer pricing, reinvest profits into local community projects, and take a long-term view of business relationships rather than chasing quarterly targets.
Our business lending team are based in Carlisle and understand the unique challenges facing North West businesses — from seasonal tourism fluctuations to agricultural cycles. We offer flexible terms, transparent pricing, and quick local decisions without layers of bureaucracy.
Whether you're expanding premises, purchasing equipment, managing cash flow, or acquiring another business, we structure lending around your specific needs. Security can include property, assets, or personal guarantees — we assess each case individually.
| Loan Type | Amount | Rate From |
|---|---|---|
| Business Term Loan | £10k – £500k | 6.5% APR |
| Commercial Mortgage | £100k – £5m | 5.2% APR Fixed |
| Asset Finance | £5k – £250k | 7.1% APR |
| Invoice Finance | Up to 90% of invoice | From 1.5%/mo |
Pay off your loan faster without penalties. We encourage businesses to reduce their debt when cash flow allows — it's part of our ethical approach to lending.
Struggling with seasonal cash flow? We offer up to 3 months payment holidays on term loans when arranged in advance, helping you navigate quiet periods without stress.
Your application is handled by one experienced underwriter from start to finish. They'll visit your premises, understand your business model, and structure lending that actually works for you.
Comprehensive financial solutions to streamline operations, protect your assets, and help you focus on growth.
Tamarack financed our expansion into a second location in Keswick when our high street bank wouldn't even return our calls. They visited our Windermere café, understood our seasonal cash flow, and structured a loan that works.
As a manufacturing business in Workington, we need a bank that understands industry. Tamarack's asset finance helped us upgrade our CNC machinery with affordable monthly payments. Their engineer even came to value the equipment.
The invoice finance facility transformed our cash flow. Instead of waiting 60 days for payment, we get 90% of invoice value next day. It's allowed us to take on bigger contracts and hire two more staff.
Tamarack Credit Union serves businesses based in Cumbria and the North West. To open a business account, you'll need:
Charities, social enterprises, and community interest companies are welcome. We also offer special terms for agricultural businesses and tourism operators.
Switching your business banking is easier than you think. Our dedicated switching team handles everything — transferring direct debits, standing orders, and notifying your suppliers.
Our Carlisle-based business team is ready to help you grow. Book a free consultation or visit our Business Banking Centre on Brunthill Road.