DSL Business Finance

DSL is a CDFI which has been in operation for almost 25 years. We started by lending to privately owned SMEs and in 1999 we added social enterprises to our client base. We are a Company Limited by Guarantee and the subsidiary of a charity – Community Enterprise in Scotland (CEIS). Any profits made are reinvested in DSL to further its aims. DSL lends to all forms of legal entities such as sole-traders, partnerships, Limited Companies, Companies Limited by Guarantee, Charities, CIC’s etc. We cover all sectors e.g: manufacturers, wholesalers, construction, catering/cafes, retail, caring sector, services etc. Our clients provide employment and services in our communities and as part of their loan agreement and we ask them to consider employing local people when they recruit new staff where possible. We offer affordable, accessible and flexible finance to small local businesses and social enterprises that have experienced difficulty in accessing funding from mainstream commercial sources, such as the Banks. By providing access to capital, DSL aims to contribute to the social, economic and physical renewal of some of the most disadvantaged areas in Scotland DSL works closely with Business Gateway, the local councils, Scottish Enterprise, the West of Scotland Loan Fund, East of Scotland Investment Fund, PSYBT, Social Investment Scotland, Big Issue Invest and the main high street banks as well as many others support and financial providers. We endeavour to work with partners to ensure clients get the funding that suits their personal situation and that local services are not duplicated.