  Non-minimal actions with matter represented by a scalar field coupled to
gravity are considered in the context of a homogeneous and isotropic universe.
The coupling is of the form $-\xi/2 \phi^2 R$. The possibility of successful
inflation is investigated taking into account features of loop cosmology. For
that end a conformal transformation is performed. That brings the theory into
the standard minimally coupled form (Einstein frame) with some effective field
and its potential. Both analytical and numerical estimates show that a negative
coupling constant is preferable for successful inflation. Moreover, provided
fixed initial conditions, larger $|\xi|$ leads to a greater number of {\em
e}-folds. The latter is obtained for a reasonable range of initial conditions
and the coupling parameter and indicates a possibility for successful
inflation.
