The development finance criteria has always existed within Knowledge Bank but it previously sat under the bridging finance category.

Following feedback, development finance will now sit in its own standalone lending type.

Feedback gathered during Knowledge Bank research highlighted a recurring challenge for brokers: a lack of clear access to lenders and, in some cases, no established relationship with a business development manager.

Brokers reported that without visibility of criteria or a clear route to market, opportunities were being missed before conversations could even begin.

Knowledge Bank aims to remove that barrier, allowing brokers to see who is active in the space, understand lender appetites, and identify suitable options before engaging in deeper discussions.

The launch also follows Knowledge Bank’s recent decision to join the Bridging and Development Lenders Association (BDLA).

Knowledge Bank sales director Shane Chawatama says: “What I hear time and time again from brokers is that they’re crying out for education, self-development, and a clearer understanding of the options available to them.”

“Development and Bridging lenders often tell me that ‘a conversation needs to be had, as not everything can be written in criteria’ and I get it. But my pushback is always the same: where does that conversation actually start, when brokers don’t know what they don’t know?”

“Knowledge Bank simply provides the platform for that first step. We give brokers visibility of the market, clarity on criteria, and confidence to reach out. From there, by all means, pick up the phone and have that conversation.”