SME Finance | TFG Business Funding for Startups

SME Finance

Trade Finance Global / Finance Products / SME Finance | TFG Business Funding for Startups

SME Funding | Business Finance for SMEs

Trade Finance Global aims to help small and medium enterprises access finance for trade, importing and exporting goods. It is often difficult for a relatively small business or startup to access finance; the banks won’t lend or provide overdraft facilities, even if you have confirmed orders.

Trade finance allows companies to compete on a global marketplace, fulfil orders to large multinationals and allows business owners to focus on the business or services they provide whilst the finances are sorted by a trade financier. The majority of clients use Trade Finance Global to import goods from overseas, in particular, China, Japan and Singapore.

SMEs are an engine of economic development, however finance is a key constraint to SME growth. Our global network of funders and specialist brokers means that we can help your company grow rapidly, assist with issuing Letters of Credit and Shipping Guarantees, as well as lowering the costs and risks of doing business internationally.

SME Finance Diagram NEW

What can I finance through trade finance?

Most goods and services exchanged internationally between two parties can be funded through trade finance. Generally, we look for deal sizes greater that £50k, with capital or finished goods which have a shelf life of longer than 9 months (non-perishable).

How much can I finance through trade finance?

Transaction sizes vary heavily, from around £50k – several million, although typical deal size is around £200k. Often, buyers or importers will want to do an initial first order, which is usually small, and then continue to do import larger goods or services with a supplier or exporter.

What types of SMEs can be funded through trade finance?

Most creditworthy limited companies can benefit from trade finance. SMEs often struggle to fund initial orders as it burdens cashflow and often suppliers demand payment upfront. Providing your business can demonstrate worthy end customers or confirmed purchase orders, trade financiers can fund the entire transaction and take on all of the risks involved.

How long can I borrow for?

This depends on the business need and facility chosen.

How long does my business need to be trading for?

We look for businesses that are registered with Companies House, have at least two years of accounts, and has a turnover of at least £500k.

What information would I need to provide?

You would need to provide us with details of your accounts, financial forecasts/ business plans, transaction details and director details.

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About the Author

Deepesh Patel is Editorial Director at Trade Finance Global (TFG). In this role, Deepesh leads efforts in developing TFG’s brand, relationships and strategic direction in key markets, including the UK, US, Singapore, Dubai and Hong Kong.

Deepesh regularly chairs and speaks at international industry events with the WTO, BCR, Excred, TXF, The Economist and Reuters, as well as industry associations including ICC, FCI, ITFA, ICISA and BAFT.

Deepesh is the host of the ‘Trade Finance Talks’ podcast and ‘Trade Finance Talks TV’. He is co-author of ‘Blockchain for Trade: A Reality Check’ with the ICC and the WTO, alongside other industry research.

In addition to his work at TFG, Deepesh is a Strategic Advisor for WOA, and works closely with ITFA. He also sits on the Fintech Working Group of the Standardised Trust.

Prior to TFG, Deepesh worked at Travelex where he was responsible for the cards business and the Travelex Money app in Europe, NAM, UK and Brazil. Deepesh is Chair of Governors and co-opted LA Governor of the Wyvern Federation, which has responsibility for 5 primary schools in South London.

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