What cookies does Spark Finance use on its website
At Spark Finance, we're transparent about how we use cookies on our website. Cookies help us give you a better experience when you visit sparkfinance.co.uk, and we're committed to protecting your privacy while doing so. This guide explains what cookies we use, why we use them, and how you can manage your preferences.
What are cookies?
Cookies are small files that websites store on your device when you visit them. They help websites remember information about you, such as your preferences or login details. Think of them as digital sticky notes that follow you around the internet.
- Session cookies - these are temporary and deleted when you close your browser
- Persistent cookies - these stay on your device for a set period, even after you close your browser
- First-party cookies - these are set by Spark Finance directly
- Third-party cookies - these are set by other companies whose services we use
Cookies themselves can't harm your device, but it's good to understand what they do.
Essential cookies we use
Some cookies are necessary for our website to work properly. Without these, basic functions like logging into your account or processing your eligibility check wouldn't be possible. We use essential cookies whether or not you've given us permission, because they're vital to keeping the site secure and functional.
- Authentication cookies - these keep you logged in while you're using our site
- Security cookies - these protect against fraud and unauthorised access
- Form submission cookies - these remember what you've entered in forms so you don't lose information if the page refreshes
- Cookie consent cookies - these remember your cookie preferences so we don't ask you repeatedly
- CSRF protection cookies - these prevent cross-site request forgery attacks
These cookies are essential for your safety and the security of your personal information.
Analytics and performance cookies
We use analytics cookies to understand how visitors use our website. This helps us improve our service, fix problems faster, and make sure you find what you're looking for easily. We use Google Analytics and similar tools to track this information anonymously.
You can opt out of analytics cookies, and we'll still help you get a quote from our 100+ lenders.
What information do these cookies collect?
These cookies track things like which pages you visit, how long you stay on them, what device you're using, and whether you're a new or returning visitor. This data is anonymised, meaning we can't identify you personally from it.
Why we use them
Understanding how you interact with our site helps us spot which parts of our eligibility checker work well and which need improvement. It also helps us see if our content answers the questions UK business owners actually ask about business finance.
Marketing and advertising cookies
These cookies help us show you relevant adverts and keep track of advertising campaigns. They're also used to measure how many people who click on our adverts actually apply for finance with us. You don't have to accept these cookies, and declining them won't affect your ability to use our service.
- Campaign tracking cookies - these show us which marketing channels bring visitors to our site
- Conversion cookies - these track whether visitors who see our ads actually apply for finance
- Retargeting cookies - these may show you Spark Finance adverts when you browse other websites
- Social media cookies - these allow social networks to track your activity and show you targeted content
These cookies help us market responsibly and understand which business owners we're reaching.
Third-party cookies and services
We use several third-party services on our website that set their own cookies. These companies have their own privacy policies, and we encourage you to read them. We only use reputable services that meet UK data protection standards.
Google services
We use Google Analytics to track website performance and Google Ads to measure advertising campaigns. Google also provides our reCAPTCHA service, which stops spam submissions on our eligibility checker.
Our lender partners
When you check your eligibility with us, information is shared securely with our lender partners. Some of these lenders may set cookies to track your journey with them. We only work with FCA-authorised lenders and brokers.
Payment processors
If you proceed to arrange finance with one of our partners, their payment and verification systems may set additional cookies to keep your transaction secure.
Your cookie choices and control
You have the right to control which cookies you accept. When you first visit sparkfinance.co.uk, we'll ask for your permission to use non-essential cookies. You can change your mind at any time by adjusting your settings.
- Look for our cookie banner at the bottom or top of the page and click 'Manage preferences'
- Use your browser settings to delete cookies or block them entirely (though this may affect how our site works)
- Visit the cookie control section in your browser - we can help with this if you're unsure
- Opt out of Google Analytics tracking by installing Google's opt-out browser extension
- Contact us at sparkfinance.co.uk if you have questions about any specific cookie
Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from using our eligibility checker, but you can still contact us directly for a quote.
How we keep your data safe
As an FCA-authorised broker, we take data protection seriously. All information collected through cookies is handled in line with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. We don't sell your data to third parties, and we keep your personal information secure.
Our security measures
We use encrypted connections (HTTPS), regular security audits, and strict access controls. Our cookie data is stored securely, and we only keep it for as long as necessary.
Your rights
Under UK GDPR, you have the right to see what data we hold about you, correct any errors, and ask us to delete your information. Contact our privacy team for more details.
How Spark Finance can help
If you're a UK business owner looking for finance, Spark Finance is here to make the process straightforward. We're an FCA-authorised broker with access to over 100 lenders, so we can find options tailored to your business. Our no-obligation eligibility check is quick and confidential, and we don't carry out a credit check at that initial stage - we just need to understand your business and financial needs. Whether you're unsure about cookies or unsure about which finance option suits you best, get in touch with our team today for expert, impartial advice.
Ready to find out what's available?
FCA-authorised. 100+ lenders. No credit check at eligibility stage.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to accept all cookies to use Spark Finance?
No. Essential cookies must be enabled for our website to work properly, but you can decline marketing and analytics cookies. You'll still be able to check your eligibility and get a no-obligation quote from our 100+ lenders. Our service works perfectly well without them.
Will declining cookies affect my eligibility for business finance?
Not at all. Cookie preferences have no impact on your eligibility or how we assess your application. We evaluate finance applications based on your business circumstances, not on which cookies you've accepted.
How long do you keep cookie data?
Essential cookies are kept for as long as you're using our site or for one year, whichever is shorter. Analytics cookies are usually kept for up to two years. You can ask us to delete your cookie data at any time by contacting our privacy team.
Can I delete cookies from my browser?
Yes. Most browsers let you delete cookies manually or set them to delete automatically when you close your browser. You can usually find these settings in your browser's privacy or security section. Be aware that deleting essential cookies may mean you have to log back in next time you visit us.
Important information: Spark Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 958123). We are a credit broker, not a lender. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Think carefully before securing debts against property or assets. Your business may be at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a debt or other commitment entered into in relation to it.