For SMEs looking to grow, having the right funding support is essential. Together, we play an important role in helping them find an external finance solution that fits their needs.
Notably, in our Q3 research of 1,000 SMEs, 50% stated they’re more likely to use external finance compared to our previous Q1 survey. However, 52% feel external finance is harder to access than six months ago.
The market for external finance is sizeable and yet the usage and understanding of Invoice Finance remains relatively low. Encouragingly, there has been a 13% increase in SMEs stating they would consider Invoice Finance as a source of funding compared to our previous survey. As an industry, we need to continue our work to raise awareness and educate businesses on the benefits.
How we help SMEs
We talk to many businesses that have been held back by their current funding limit or are not aware of the full range of options available to them. Alternative options such as Invoice Finance can provide more flexibility than traditional solutions. It is future focused, enabling a timely injection of cash for efficient day to day running, or investing in growth. It provides scalability, since funding can increase in line with turnover.
The importance of having strong relationships cannot be underestimated. Working with a funder that seeks to understand the business’ plan and aspirations can enable the increase of credit availability when the opportunity to scale presents. What’s more, if a funder has a close relationship with a client they can better structure a personalised solution, perhaps even identifying additional needs and potentially saving the business from cashflow pressures in the future.
To support much needed economic growth, it’s vital that SMEs can access funding that is tailored to their business and that is consistent. Working with our broker partners, we can help make growth possible and unlock SMEs’ potential together.
