Running a business is challenging but rewarding. You get to do something you love and provide products/services to people. As rewarding as it is, there will be financial shortcomings and for that you will need working capital loans from working capital lenders.
Working capital loans are used to finance a business’s everyday operations. There are different kinds of working capital loans, like credit cards, merchant cash advances, invoice financing and business lines of credit.
As a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME), you might need working capital to manage your cash flow more effectively or when the business is growing fast.
Let’s look at some of the working capital lenders for small businesses in South Africa.
GENFIN
A subsidiary of Genfin Holdings Group, GENFIN offers business loans of up to R 5 million. The company’s website says it has a quick approval process, making offers within 24 hours.
To qualify for a GENFIN loan you will need to be a registered entity, have a trading history of more than one year, and have an annual turnover of over R 1 million.
The repayment period is from six months to 12 months. The company says this is to ensure the instalments are as low as possible. However, you can restructure your loan repayment to a shorter term or increase the repayment amount.
You can apply online or submit your applications over the phone. GENFIN offers business owners a consultant to work with them during the application process. Once your application has been submitted, you will be asked to send your most recent 12 months bank statement.
Depending on the loan amount, GENFIN can also ask you to send:
- Latest management accounts.
- Latest annual financial statements.
- SARS statement of account (VAT and PAYE as applicable).
Once approved, you will sign the loan agreement and the money will be paid into your bank account on the same day.
Retail Capital
Retail Capital is a division of TymeBank. The organisation focuses on providing a range of lending solutions for SMEs. Retail Capital provides loans for businesses in various sectors, including restaurant, retail, wellness and medical sectors. The funding is unrestricted so you can use the funds for anything.
To apply for the loan, you will need to register online and create a profile. The full application requires bank statements, a copy of business owner(s) ID, title deed or latest bond or rental statement, and a recent main supplier statement.
To qualify for a Retail Capital loan, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- Turnover of R 50 000 to R 5 million per month.
- A trading history of at least three months.
- A minimum of six months of business ownership.
Retail Capital offers flexible repayment terms. You can choose to repay a fixed amount or opt for a percentage of your turnover to be taken as part of your repayment. Payments can be made daily or weekly.
Fees are calculated based on your business’ turnover, the duration of the loan, and when you would like to make payments.
Lula
Lula offers a range of unsecured funding options for SMEs. Funding amounts range from R 10 000 to R 5 million. The company provides industry-specific financing for businesses. These sectors are manufacturing, construction, professional services, hospitality, and restaurants.
You can apply online by simply providing your personal and business information. Additionally, you will need to upload your most recent bank statements or link your internet banking account via Yodlee.
To qualify for the loan, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- A minimum turnover of R 500 000 per annum.
- A trading history of at least one year.
- Three months’ bank transaction history.
Secure Business Funding
The loan can be repaid in standard instalments over a three to 12-month period. You can calculate how much your loan repayment will be on the website calculator.
The repayment amount is a 1/6th or 1/12th of the total depending on your plan plus monthly costs. Monthly costs are between 2% and 6% of your loan for the first two or four months. Thereafter, it will be 2% per month.
These are just some of the companies that offer working capital loans. Before taking out a loan, ensure you have the means to pay it back. Also make sure that your documentation is up-to-date and correct.
Working capital loans are a great choice because you can get them quickly (usually 24 hours) and you can get them without providing collateral.
Apply for funding today on the SME South Africa website.
