Funding for Businesses with Bad Credit History

Mar 2023

Jan 2025

Businesses need a robust cash flow to sustain their operations and generate profits. At times they may need to borrow funds to acquire resources, maintain operations, or grow. Unfortunately, various factors can adversely affect a business's ability to borrow from traditional financial institutions. These factors include having a poor credit history or insufficient credit history, missed or late payments, high debt-to-service ratio, bankruptcy, records of default, or simply being a relatively new business.However, there are many funding solutions available for Small Businesses that don’t fit the bank or credit Union model.These options are:

1. Merchant Cash Advance

A merchant cash advance is a financing option that offers businesses a lump sum cash payment in exchange for a percentage of their future credit card or debit card sales. This type of financing is best suited for businesses that require quick cash and have a high volume of credit or debit card sales.The primary advantage of a merchant cash advance is the speed and ease of accessing immediate cash funding. The process typically takes only a few days, and the funds become available within a short period.Business owners should take in account that although merchant cash advance is a convenient cash flow instrument and allows you to get funding within a few days, it may come with higher fees and interest rates due to their quick access to cash.

2. Invoice Factoring or Cheque Factoring

Invoice factoring, also known as cheque factoring, is a financing option that enables businesses to utilize their outstanding invoices in exchange for a cash advance that is immediately available. The lender collects payment from the business's customers and pays the business the remaining balance minus the financing cost. This type of financing is ideal for businesses with bad credit history since their ability to borrow is based on the creditworthiness of their invoice customers rather than the borrower. Businesses with long-term contracts, high-value invoices, or those needing cash to immediately purchase materials to fulfill high-value invoices should consider this type of bridge financing.Manufacturing, construction, transportation, and wholesale/distribution are businesses that can benefit from this type of financing to meet their immediate cash flow needs.The main advantage of invoice factoring is that the lender typically assumes responsibility for collecting payment from the invoice customers or payers. This can free up valuable time and resources for the business to focus on other aspects of their operations. Furthermore, businesses with long payment cycles, delayed payments, or long-term contracts that involve milestone payments can obtain the necessary cash to expand or continue operating their businesses immediately.Similarly to merchant cash advance companies, factoring lenders may charge a high fee for assuming the risk of collecting on the invoice and the time gap until the invoice is due for payment.

3. B-Lender Loans

B-Lender loans are non-traditional financing options provided by private equity firms or online lenders. These lenders are often willing to lend to businesses with bad credit or little credit history for various purposes. They understand the complexity and cash flow requirements of small businesses and work with them regularly. This type of loan comes in various sizes and forms, depending on the business needs and the business entity's qualifications and lending risks.B-Lender loans are a great financing option for start-ups, small businesses, seasonal revenue businesses, or those in urgent need of short-term financing. Traditional lenders typically require creditworthiness, good credit history, and collateral, but B-Lenders often have significantly more flexibility. These lenders are specialized in dealing with the complexity of newer and smaller businesses and can provide loans with less stringent due diligence processes and quicker turnaround times to meet business needs.However, it is highly advisable for borrowers to understand the terms of the loan and carefully review the terms and conditions before accepting them. B-Lender loans are less standardized and customizable and can vary significantly in terms such as repayment, interest, default events, settlement, and legal jurisdiction. Businesses should also be aware that B-Lender loans may come with higher fees and interest rates due to their higher risk tolerance.B-Lender loans can be a great option for businesses that are just starting or facing challenges with traditional lenders. These loans can provide flexibility, speed, and customized financing solutions to meet their specific needs. However, careful consideration of the terms and conditions and full understanding of the associated costs are crucial before committing to this type of financing.

4. Instant Payday Loans

Instant payday loans are short-term loans that can be used to cover unexpected expenses or emergencies. They are easy to obtain and are often offered by online lenders. Borrowers may receive access to immediate relief cash within hours, thanks to the quick and standardized approval process of the lenders that provide these loans.Instant payday loans are suitable for individuals with emergency cash needs or who need access to immediate cash to cover unexpected expenses. Some typical uses for instant payday loans include medical bills, car repair bills, and home repair bills. These loans can offer immediate cash relief to ensure a person has the cash to cover daily living needs to continue working and earning money.Payday loans can be useful for individuals who have low credit scores or limited credit history and may not qualify for traditional loans.Borrowers should know that instant payday loans typically have high interest rates and fees for their ease of access and quick approval process. The repayment period is often within two to four weeks. As these loans can be accessed quickly and easily with minimal documentation requirements, these could be beneficial for individuals who need immediate cash and don't mind the associated fees.In summary, there are various types of non-traditional lending and financial services available to businesses and consumers in Canada. These services can provide cash relief for a variety of situations, depending on the borrower's needs and qualifications.Merchant cash loans are suitable for businesses with high credit or debit card transaction volume and immediate cash needs. Invoice or cheque factoring can benefit businesses with valuable invoices with longer repayment terms. B-Lender loans are a great option for start-ups or small businesses with an immediate cash need to expand or maintain operations. Instant payday loans can provide relief for individuals with unexpected or emergency cash needs.Overall, non-traditional lending and financial services can provide valuable solutions for businesses and consumers with unique financial needs. It is also vital to approach them with caution and careful consideration of the associated costs and repayment terms. With the right lender and loan terms, these financial services can help businesses and individuals overcome cash flow challenges and achieve their financial goals.

April 4, 2022

January 27, 2025

Merchant Cash Advance vs. Cheques Factoring

Managing a small business is challenging. One of the common challenges for business owners is financing. Your company might not have a lengthy credit history or collateral to apply for a bank loan. Whether you want to grow your business or cover unforeseen expenses, you have come across other financing options. Merchant cash advance and cheques factoring are some of the available options for small businesses.

What Is Merchant Cash Advance?

A merchant cash advance is an alternative financing option for small businesses. You can take the funds upfront and pay them off with a percentage of future sales. The MCA is an ideal solution for businesses that need fast funding and might not be eligible to take a bank loan. The availability of funds is another excellent advantage. If your business needs the funds fast to proceed with the operations, the cash advance will be approved within a day or two.

PROS

Fast access to funds

When timing is crucial and you can't go through the lengthy bank approval process, the MCA is your solution. Small businesses can get funds within a day or two from submission. Unlike the traditional bank process, the financial institutions that issue MCAs don't do rigorous checks. They will check the business's past sales to determine whether they qualify for a cash advance.

Ideal for businesses that work with cash and credit cards

Retail and restaurant businesses rely on a high volume of credit card sales, making them ideal for obtaining MCA. If your business depends on cash or credit cards, a cash advance is the ideal financing method. This opportunity is perfect for the ones that don't rely on invoices. Instead, they take a percentage of the credit card sales to repay the loan.

CONS

High-interest rates

Merchant cash advance comes with higher interest rates than traditional bank loans. The convenience of having the funds fast will cost more. However, the price is worth paying when you need urgent funds to proceed with the business operations.

What Is Cheques Factoring?

A post-dated cheque is a cheque that can be cashed on the indicated date on the document's face. It is a form of advance payment and can be cashed on a specific date. According to Canadian laws, a cheque can't be cleared before this date. If you still need cash to keep your business's liquidity, you can sell the cheque to a factoring company.

PROS

Fast approval

Depending on the date indicated on the check face, you might have to wait long to receive the payment. If you need to meet your business needs urgently, factoring your cheques will provide you with funds quickly. They will pay off a particular value of the face value while keeping a specific percentage as a fee.

No credit score checks

When applying for a traditional bank loan, they will do a rigorous check on your financial history. When your small business is relatively new and doesn't have a credit history, you might be restricted from obtaining such loans. Your ability for cheque factoring isn't assessed with credit history, and you aren't required to disclose collateral. This is very important, as you don't need to put your property or equipment at risk. The factoring company will check the check for authenticity.

Not deal with cheques

Having to deal with cheques is a tedious job. Passing this responsibility to a third party means less time spent sorting out cheques so that you can focus on the more important aspects of your business.

CONS

Higher cost

The factoring company will charge fees to provide you with the cash in advance. They will usually pay 80% of the amount indicated on the face. However, the high cost might pay off if you need money urgently.

Requirements

Cheques factoring companies might have specific requirements for cashing out your document. For example, the check drawer should be a reputable entity. Also, the factoring company might have particular requirements on the cheque's active time.

Merchant Cash Advance vs. Cheques Factoring

For cheques factoring, you will pay a fee to the factoring company expressed as a percentage of the total amount. On the other hand, you will pay off your MCA as a percentage of your future sales. When choosing the suitable financing method for your company, select the one that is a better fit for your needs. We at 2M7 are dedicated to providing the needed funds to enhance your business's liquidity without restrictions on how to use them. Get in touch with us, and we will answer your specific needs!

December 20, 2019

January 27, 2025

Securing Your Business: 5 Practices to Secure Your Business Online

Almost three quarters of business leaders say they aren’t prepared for a cyberattack. As breaches become more common, business owners and IT experts must protect their businesses. These five best practices make securing your business online easier.

1. Educate Your Employees

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‍One of the best things that helps securing your business online is to train and educate your employees. With the right training, they’ll be able to use the right security techniques.

2. Stay Up to Date

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‍Another important step you can take towards online security is updating your software. Software developers are always testing and patching potential problems. These patches and updates help keep your business more secure.

3. Firewalls Secure Your Business

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‍A firewall protects your internal networks from outside threats. If you let employees bring their own devices, these security measures are even more important.

4. Limit Access to Your Network

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‍Another important step is limiting who has access to the Internet through your networks.Secure access by creating accounts and monitoring privileges. If you have a public network, be sure to change the password regularly. That way, cybercriminals can’t gain access through hijacked devices that have stored login information.

5. Invest in Website Security

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‍The last step to creating online security for your business is to secure your website. Invest in an SSL certificate. Make sure you’re compliant with standards such as those for the payment cards industry.If you’re not sure what security measures you can take, ask your host. Online security isn’t just your responsibility. The partners you work with should also take steps to protect your information and your business.If you require quick access to cash to support your business online – a merchant cash advance is the fastest and easiest way of getting the necessary funds. Talk to us to discover options on how we can help you secure and grow your business.

April 26, 2021

January 24, 2025

How to Stay Motivated and Reach Your Goals?

If you have set some big goals in your life, then you may wonder how to keep yourself motivated. The good news is that there are a number of proven ways to keep yourself focused and energized to reach the goals that matter the most to you. Here’s a look at five proven ways to keep yourself motivated and reach your goals.

1) Clearly define your goals

The first thing that you need to do is clearly define your goals. Saying, “I want a successful business,” or “I want to be rich.” is not motivating enough. You need to give your mind specific goals that can give it focus. For instance, if you want to have a successful business, define the business (Ex. I want to generate $1 million in annual sales with my cupcake business). If you want to become wealthy, set a specific dollar amount at a specific date (ex. I want to have $3 million in my bank account by January 1, 2030). This will allow you to have the focus and direction that you need to stay motivated and on track to your goal.

2) Choose goals that motivate you

On the path to reaching your goal, you will encounter roadblocks that will challenge your will to continue. The one thing that will get you passed those roadblocks are goals that matter to you. Therefore, you need to choose goals that will motivate you during hard times. What matters to you? Is losing weight really important or reaching a certain financial goal? Choose goals that you are willing to suffer and endure to accomplish.

3) Plot your progress

The most worthwhile goals will be long-term goals. Therefore, you need some motivation to keep you going. A great way to keep you on the road to your goal is to track your progress. For instance, if you are looking to lose weight, then keep track of the weight that you have already lost. This will give you the energy and the drive to keep going.

4) Set up checkpoints for your goal

Instead of having one big goal, create mini-goals that give you a sense of accomplishment more often. For instance, if your goal is for your business to have $1 million in annual sales, then set up goals to reach $100,000 in sales every 35 days. This will allow you to have a short-term focus that can motivate you to keep going.

5) Visualize your goals

Finally, you will want to visualize how your world will look when you finally accomplish your goal. Set aside 15 to 30 minutes a day to visualize your life after completing your goal. Create that feeling of happiness and content that you intend to feel. That positive energy will give you the drive to keep going.

Helping You Get to Your Goals

Reaching your goals can become a challenge. When your business needs a little edge, contact 2M7 Financial Solutions. We can provide your business with a merchant cash advance when you need it. Contact us today to learn more.