Portman has been a provider of business finance for the UK SME market since 2007, providing over £1.5bn in funding and growing its team to more than 100 people.

The specialist lender has further ambitious plans to broaden its SME loan offering and assist with larger and longer-dated loans.

Shawbrook worked with directors Alex Read, Simon Pratt and Ben Laidler, alongside finance director Mark Craigen, to structure an eight-figure block facility that will enable Portman to continue to scale.

Alex Read, founder of Portman, commented: "We are delighted to have Shawbrook as a partner as we look to grow and expand our offerings.

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“This funding line is crucial for us to achieve our ambitious plans and to assist even more SMEs across the UK."

Simon Pratt, COO at Portman, said: “Chris and the team have in-depth knowledge of this industry and their ability to interpret our long-term objectives and help meet our growth aspirations were key to forging this relationship.

“We view this partnership as an ongoing growth journey for both parties.”

Chris Clarke, director of structured lending at Shawbrook, added: “Right from the start, Portman’s Board demonstrated it had built a strong, experienced group and its robust systems and data-led approach aligned perfectly with our vision.

“We believe that this funding line is only the start of a long and prosperous relationship, and we are pleased that Shawbrook have also joined the Portman Broker panel which reflects our commitment to this client.”