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In small and medium-sized business (SMB) financing, merchant cash advances (MCAs) have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional lending options. However, MCAs are evolving, and staying on top of emerging trends is crucial for both funders and SMB owners seeking financing solutions. 

In this article, we will explore the mechanics of merchant cash advances, examine their role in 

, and delve into some of the key challenges they present to business owners. We’ll also discuss the emerging trends in this market, explore potential growth areas for merchant cash advances, and analyze the impact of economic shifts on this financing option. 

Finally, we will provide strategies for SMBs to adapt to the changing landscape and evaluate whether or not a merchant cash advance is the right fit for their business. 

Merchant cash advances are a form of financing that provide up-front capital to SMBs in exchange for a percentage of their future sales. Delivered as a lump-sum amount to the business operating account, MCA funding is a fast solution for businesses where cash flow is tight or bank financing is not an option.  

, which are paid in fixed installments, MCAs are paid back through deductions from a business’s daily receivables, mainly credit and debit card sales. With typical advances ranging from $5,000 to $200,000, this alternative form of funding has been a go-to solution for business owners for roughly two decades, perhaps owing to its flexible payment structure in which payment amounts fluctuate with sales.

Merchant cash advances have become increasingly popular among SMBs due to their accessibility and speedy approval process. Unlike traditional lenders, MCA providers don’t force business owners to jump through hoops like heavy paperwork, 

, and other challenges, instead making funding accessible to a broader range of businesses. 

Moreover, MCAs are much faster than traditional loans. Same-day approvals are common, with funds being delivered to a bank account in as little as a day. This speed can be critical for SMBs facing urgent needs, such as when a piece of equipment breaks down or they need to supplement their inventory during a busy season.

The popularity of merchant cash advances has been steadily increasing in recent years, primarily due to the accessibility factor. Many small businesses find it challenging to qualify for bank loans due to issues such as a limited credit history, lack of collateral, or seasonal revenue streams. MCAs offer an 

 option that addresses these sensitive needs, making them an attractive choice for many SMB owners.

While merchant cash advances offer benefits to SMBs, they typically come at a higher cost. The fees and interest rates of MCAs can be higher compared to traditional loans, while payment periods can be shorter

which can mean higher payments and smaller funding limits for business owners. 

Additionally, if the MCA program is structured incorrectly, SMBs run the risk of what’s known as stacking MCAs, where multiple advances are stacked on top of one another, which can lead to untenable payment percentages. 

Emerging trends in merchant cash advances 

The MCA industry has been quick to embrace technological advancements. As financial technology, or fintech, continues to evolve, it has introduced innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and accessibility of MCAs. One such example is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to automate the underwriting process, resulting in faster approvals and more accurate risk assessments.

While traditional financial underwriting can create a one-size-fits-all approach that overlooks many businesses, fintech-enabled MCAs can analyze revenue patterns and determine the eligibility of a wide range of business almost instantly. At Pipe, we leverage state of the art technology to make capital more accessible to business owners, directly through 

 and embedded in the software platforms they rely on everyday to run their businesses. With a deeper understanding of revenue trends for each small business, we’re able to create customized capital offers while minimizing risk to reduce financing costs. Our data-driven approach also allows for quick, streamlined applications and approvals.

Regulatory changes and their implications

The merchant cash advance industry operates in a dynamic regulatory environment. Recent regulatory changes have sought to enhance transparency and protect borrowers from potential predatory practices. 

Pipe was built by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs

. Our mission is to give business owners fair, fast, transparent access to unbiased capital so they can grow on their terms. That’s why every advance comes with a simple, flat fee, disclosed up front and paid over time with a percentage of revenue.   

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for both capital providers and SMB owners to stay informed and comply with the latest regulations. Adapting to these changes will foster a healthier and more sustainable merchant cash advance industry.

Predictions for the future of merchant cash advances

As demand for alternative financing options ramps up, merchant cash advances are poised for continued growth. Specifically, MCAs are expected to gain further traction in industries such as retail, hospitality, and e-commerce, where revenue tends to fluctuate based on seasonality. These industries tend to struggle with traditional loans and need an alternative source of financing that can adapt to their revenue patterns.

Business owners are increasingly looking for 

financial services embedded in the software

 they use to run their businesses day to day. This is likely to be one of the biggest areas of growth for MCA products in the future. Since MCAs are based on the payment streams processed by a business, any software platform that helps companies accept payments has the potential to 

 product to help their merchants access financing based on those processed payments. This allows small businesses to streamline their operations and obtain financing through a provider who deeply understands their industry.

The impact of economic shifts on merchant cash advances

The economic landscape also plays a vital role in the performance of merchant cash advances. Economic shifts, such as recessions or industry-wide disruptions, can significantly impact the availability of capital, volume of sales, and, consequently, the payment capabilities of businesses. This can make traditional loans difficult to access, especially for businesses with irregular revenues or those with low credit scores or thin credit files. Regardless of the economic cycle, it’s important for both funders and SMB owners to closely monitor economic trends so they are not caught unprepared. 

Preparing for the future: Strategies for SMBs

Evaluating the suitability of merchant cash advances

Before considering a merchant cash advance, SMB owners must assess their business's specific needs and financial capabilities. Understanding the risks, such as the costs and payment structure, is essential for making an informed decision. SMBs should evaluate whether the benefits of accelerated funding outweigh the potential drawbacks, ensuring that an MCA aligns with their long-term goals and financial sustainability.

The merchant cash advance industry is continually evolving, with technological advancements and regulatory changes shaping its trajectory. SMBs must be proactive in adapting to these expectations to maximize the benefits of MCAs and navigate any challenges that may arise. Staying informed about industry trends, exploring different financing options, and cultivating a strong financial management strategy will enable SMB owners to thrive.

The future of merchant cash advances holds both promising trends and potential challenges. While merchant cash advances can offer a lifeline to SMBs, it is essential to perform due diligence on the provider and ensure the funding option is a good fit for your business. By embracing these strategies and staying agile, SMBs can position themselves for success.

Gain insights into the future of merchant cash advance funding and how it will help SMBs access capital for growth in the coming years.

Merchant cash advance trends every SMB should know about

The Future of Merchant Cash Advances: Trends and Predictions for SMB Financing

Small and medium-sized businesses often need financing to help manage their 

and grow their companies. However, many struggle to qualify for traditional term 

. Luckily, there's another financing option available: a business line of credit. If you're unfamiliar with this type of loan, let's break it down and explore its benefits for business owners.

A business line of credit is a flexible financing solution that provides businesses with readily accessible funds, which they can draw on as needed. You can think of a business line of credit as a financial lifeline for businesses struggling with cash flow issues.  It offers the flexibility and convenience needed to access funds whenever necessary. 

Unlike small business loans, where businesses to borrow a fixed lump sum and repay it over a fixed period, a business line of credit operates differently. With a line of credit, businesses can withdraw funds as they require up to the approved limit, paying interest only on the amount they have borrowed and not on the entire credit limit. The key feature of a business line of credit is that once you’ve repaid the borrowed amount, the credit becomes available again for future use, just like a credit card.

With a business line of credit, businesses can cover short-term expenses such as payroll, 

, or unexpected costs. It can also be used to take advantage of opportunities that demand quick access to funds, such as a new marketing campaign or fulfilling a large customer order.

Additionally, a line of credit provides businesses with ongoing access to capital without the need to reapply for a loan each time they require funds. This can save time and effort compared to traditional 

. Interest rates on lines of credit are typically lower than those on credit cards, making them a more cost-effective financing option for businesses.

Overall, it gives your business much-needed financial flexibility to manage cash flow fluctuations and seize growth opportunities as they arise.

What are secured and unsecured lines of credit?

Now, let's talk about secured and unsecured lines of credit. Business lines of credit can be categorized into two types: 

So what exactly sets them apart? Secured lines of credit are guaranteed by 

. Essentially, to obtain one, you need to provide collateral as security for the loan. Collateral can be in the form of assets such as real estate, vehicles, or other valuable property. If you fail to repay the debt, the lender has the right to seize and sell the collateral to recover the outstanding amount.

Because collateral provides an assurance of some sort if you can’t repay your debt, secured lines of credit typically offer higher borrowing limits and lower interest rates than unsecured lines.

On the other hand, an unsecured line of credit, as the name implies, usually requires no collateral but may have slightly higher interest rates because the lender takes on a bit more risk. This type of loan is typically given based on the borrower's creditworthiness and financial history.

Lenders evaluate factors such as credit score, income stability, and debt-to-income ratio to determine if you’re eligible and the limit of credit that will be given to you. This is because the lender has less protection if you default. So, in essence, it's a trade-off between providing security or paying a bit more in interest.

Which should you go for? Here are some points to consider:

Ultimately, the choice between a secured and unsecured line of credit depends on your individual circumstances, including your 

, available collateral, borrowing needs, and risk tolerance.

Using a business line of credit: key features to consider

Before deciding to pursue a business line of credit, it's important for you to understand its key features to decide if it's the right type of financing for your business. Here are some features that make the business line of credit stand out:

Flexibility is one of the main benefits of a line of credit. A business line of credit allows you to access funds when you need them, up to a certain limit.  And as we’ve stated previously, you only pay interest on the amount you actually use. This enables you to manage your cash flow more effectively and avoid paying unnecessary interest. This is great for managing cash flow because no business wants to be stuck paying interest on funds they don't need.

While there might be some lender restrictions, lines of credit generally provide flexibility in how you use the funds too. Whether it's covering unexpected expenses, managing seasonal fluctuations, or seizing growth opportunities, you have more control over where and how the money is spent.

Unlike regular/traditional business loans with fixed interest rates, lines of credit often come with variable interest rates. That means the rate can change over time based on market conditions and other factors. Keep this in mind, as it can affect your repayment strategy. It's always good to stay informed about the current rates and any changes that might happen.

A line of credit is like having a financial safety net that you can dip into and pay back as needed. As you repay what you've borrowed, the credit becomes available to you again. It's like a never-ending cycle (in a good way!) that provides ongoing access to funds without going through the hassle of applying for a new loan every time.

When you get a line of credit, the lender sets a maximum limit for how much you can borrow. This limit is dependent on factors like your business's financial health, credit history, and if you're offering any collateral. The credit limit acts as your spending boundary, so you know how much you can tap into.

You have the freedom to make withdrawals from your line of credit whenever you need funds. Just keep in mind that you'll need to make regular payments to repay what you've borrowed. These payments usually include interest charges and a portion of the principal amount. The terms may differ, so make sure to understand how the repayment works.

Business lines of credit offer several benefits for businesses, making them a valuable financing option. Let's dive into the advantages:

Having access to a line of credit means businesses can cover unexpected expenses or take on new projects without disrupting their cash flow. This can help businesses stay on track and avoid financial stress.

With a line of credit in place, you don't have to go through the lengthy process of applying for a new loan each time you need funds. Once your line of credit is approved, you can easily access the funds whenever required, saving you time and effort. This agility is particularly beneficial in time-sensitive situations or when opportunities arise suddenly.

With a line of credit, you only pay interest on the amount you borrow, not the entire credit limit. This can result in cost savings compared to traditional loans, where interest is charged on the entire loan amount from the beginning. By using funds more strategically and minimizing interest costs, you can optimize your financing expenses.

Successfully managing a business line of credit can help businesses build their credit score and establish a history of timely payments.

By making payments on time and using the line of credit responsibly, businesses can improve their creditworthiness and increase their chances of being approved for other types of financing in the future. This can be especially important for new businesses still establishing their credit.

How to qualify for a business line of credit

Qualifying for a business line of credit involves 

meeting specific requirements set by lenders

. To give yourself the best chance of approval, here's what you need to consider:

Remember, each lender may have different requirements and criteria, so it's essential to research and understand their specific guidelines. By meeting these qualifications, preparing the necessary documentation, and presenting a strong business case, you can increase your chances of qualifying for a business line of credit.

Comparing business lines of credit to other financing options

When considering financing options for your business, it's crucial to compare a business line of credit to other alternatives. Let's explore a few common options and highlight their key features:

Business credit cards are a convenient way to access funds quickly. They come with perks and rewards but keep in mind they usually have higher interest rates and lower credit limits compared to business lines of credit. Just be careful not to carry a balance for too long, as it can affect your credit score negatively.

Term loans provide a lump sum that you repay over a fixed period with interest. They work well for big investments like equipment or real estate. However, they may not be as flexible for smaller, ongoing expenses. Term loans often require collateral, such as property or equipment, to secure the loan.

Invoice factoring involves selling outstanding customer invoices to a third-party company for a fee. This option can improve cash flow quickly by providing funds upfront. Just keep in mind that compared to other financing options, it can be more costly, especially if you have lots of low-value invoices

If you need to purchase equipment or machinery for your business, equipment financing can be worth considering. You can use the equipment itself as collateral, which makes it easier to get financing. Typically, this type of financing is structured as a term loan, allowing you to repay the borrowed amount over a specific period.

5. Small business administration (SBA) loans

 and are designed to support small businesses. They often come with more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates and longer repayment periods, compared to other financing options. However, the application process for SBA loans can be more complex and time-consuming.

Depending on your business type, industry, and location, you may be eligible for various 

. These grants are non-repayable funds government agencies or organizations provide to support specific business activities or sectors. However, securing grants can be highly competitive, and eligibility criteria may be strict.

If your business has high growth potential, you might consider seeking investment from v

 or angel investors. These investors provide capital in exchange for equity or a share of ownership in your business. While this option can bring significant funding, it often requires giving up a portion of control and ownership.

Crowdfunding platforms allow you to raise funds by collecting small contributions from a large number of people. This option can be particularly useful for product launches, creative projects, or community-driven initiatives. Just remember that success in crowdfunding depends on your ability to engage and attract a supportive audience. 

 has many of the advantages of a line of credit without the limitations. With Pipe, your offer is based on secure, live data about your company’s health and revenue, minimizing paperwork and ensuring you get the financial access your business deserves with no collateral required. You can draw as little or as much of your offer as needed, with multiple draws available until the offer expires and new offers available often before the first is expired. Your advance is paid down automatically with a percentage of your sales, protecting your cash flow against fluctuations and enabling you to access the best capital offers. 

You may have noticed that no single best financing option exists. Every option comes with its pros and cons. The key is to go over your specific business needs, considering factors like interest rates, credit limits, flexibility, collateral requirements, and cost-effectiveness, as ultimately, the best financing option for your business will always depend on your specific needs and circumstances.

Business lines of credit offer a level of financial flexibility and security that other financing options don't provide. With the ability to withdraw funds as needed and only pay interest on what's been used, businesses can take on new projects and cover unexpected expenses without disrupting cash flow.

Learn what a business line of credit is, the pros and cons of this type of credit, and how it can help your business grow. 

What is a business line of credit and how can it help me?

Understanding Business Lines of Credit

Short-term financing can be a lifeline for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to meet their immediate financial needs when cash flow is tight. Whether a business owner needs to stock the shelves or jump on an advertising opportunity, short-term financing could be the solution. 

However, like any financing method, it has advantages and disadvantages that could sway a business owner one way or the other. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of short-term financing for SMBs, and explore some alternatives that businesses can consider.

Short-term financing is a crucial aspect of financial management for businesses. As the name suggests, it involves borrowing funds for a relatively short period, typically less than a year but potentially up to 18 months. Additionally, short-term financing amounts tend to be smaller compared with those provided by long-term financing, due to the shorter repayment period. 

Generally simple to qualify for, this quick type of financing is perfect for meeting the immediate financial needs of business owners, such as managing 

. On the flip side, short-term financing is not meant to facilitate major purchases, such as 

, investing in real estate, or a business acquisition, all of which generally require 

Short-term financing transcends any one product. Instead, it is a financial strategy that helps businesses meet their immediate funding needs when the bank account balance is running low. It involves securing funds for a short duration, usually less than 12 months but up to 18 months on the longer side. 

This form of financing can be essential for businesses to bridge the gap between their cash inflows and outflows, ensuring smooth operations, financial stability, and peace of mind. It can make the difference between keeping vendors paid or ruining a relationship.

Short-term financing serves as a temporary solution to address immediate financial needs, like if a piece of equipment breaks down or severe weather causes damage to a storefront. It is commonly used to manage unexpected expenses, seize business opportunities like hiring talent, or fulfill short-term obligations. 

By accessing short-term financing options, businesses can maintain their coveted liquidity while ensuring the doors will stay open and employees will be paid.

There are several types of short-term financing that businesses can consider:

Trade credit is a widely used form of short-term financing. It involves buying goods or services from a vendor today and deferring payment to a later date, typically within days or weeks. This arrangement allows businesses to acquire necessary resources without immediate cash outflow, providing them with flexibility in managing their finances. However, suppliers won’t just hand out trade credit to anyone–business owners must earn their trust first. When in doubt, think of

mous line from the Popeye the Sailor Man cartoon: “

I’ll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today.”

 are another popular option for businesses to meet their immediate funding needs. These loans are provided as a lump-sum payment by financial institutions for a specific period, usually repaid within 12 months. Short-term loans may or may not require collateral, such as a vehicle or piece of real estate. They offer businesses quick access to capital, enabling them to address urgent financial needs or invest in short-term projects.

 is a flexible financing option that allows businesses to borrow funds up to a predetermined limit. Unlike traditional loans, interest is charged only on the amount used, similar to a credit card. This form of short-term financing provides businesses with a safety net, ensuring they have access to funds on demand, without incurring unnecessary interest expenses.

Invoice financing, also known as accounts receivable financing, is a specialized form of short-term financing. It involves selling outstanding invoices to a lender in exchange for immediate cash, usually a percentage of the invoice value. This option helps businesses improve their cash flow by converting their accounts receivable into immediate working capital. However, before going this route, it’s important to let customers know that a third party might be communicating with them so there are no surprises. 

Merchant cash advances (MCAs) offer businesses a quick and unique funding solution. By providing a lump sum of capital upfront in exchange for a percentage of daily credit card sales, MCAs cater to immediate financial needs. Unlike traditional loans, payments are seamlessly aligned with daily cash flows, granting businesses flexibility. With rapid approval times and no stringent collateral requirements, MCAs stand out as a dynamic option in the short-term financing landscape. 

Each type of short-term financing has its own advantages and considerations. Businesses should carefully evaluate their unique needs and financial situation to determine the best option. By harnessing the benefits of short-term financing, businesses can ensure their financial stability and seize growth opportunities that might otherwise pass them by.

Advantages of short-term financing for SMBs

Cash is king, especially for business owners. One significant advantage of short-term financing is its ability to improve cash flow. SMBs often experience cash flow volatility due to delayed payments or unexpected expenses. Short-term financing provides a quick injection of funds to bridge these gaps and keep the business running smoothly.

Short-term financing options offer greater flexibility as compared to long-term financing. SMBs can tailor the loan amount and duration according to their specific needs. This nimble approach allows businesses to secure the necessary funds without being locked into long-term commitments.

When funds are needed yesterday, short-term financing can provide a quick solution. Unlike long-term financing, which may involve lengthy approval processes, short-term applications often have faster turnaround times, in some cases as quickly as 24 hours. This rapid access to funds can be crucial in seizing surprise business opportunities, keeping a competitive edge, or addressing urgent expenses such as a restaurant needing more help to meet a surge in demand.

Disadvantages of short-term financing for SMBs

Chief among the drawbacks of short-term financing is the potentially higher interest rates attached to these loans. Since lenders are shouldering additional risk with shorter repayment periods, they may charge higher interest rates to offset this risk. For example, annual percentage rates (APRs) on short-term business loans can range anywhere 

 and up. Businesses must carefully consider the costs involved to ensure that the benefits of short-term financing outweigh the interest expenses and so they are not caught unaware.

While short-term financing can serve as a lifeline for immediate funding needs, it could also become too much of a good thing. Developing an over-reliance on short-term borrowing can lead to a vicious cycle of debt. Businesses should proceed with caution and only use short-term financing when necessary, instead of relying solely on it to keep the business afloat for the long-term. 

In some cases, businesses may find it challenging to repay short-term loans within the accelerated time frame. This can also result in a vicious debt cycle, with businesses constantly renewing or rolling over their short-term loans. Such a cycle can be detrimental to a company's financial health and hinder its long-term growth prospects.

Evaluating the suitability of short-term financing

Before opting for short-term financing, it is crucial to assess your business needs. Consider the purpose of the funds, the urgency of the need, and the potential impact on day-to-day cash flow. Evaluate whether short-term financing aligns with your business goals and if alternative solutions may be more appropriate.

Consider the costs and benefits associated with short-term financing. Compare interest rates, repayment terms, and any additional fees or charges. Assess whether the benefits, such as improved cash flow or quick access to funds, outweigh the costs.

For SMBs with greater financing needs, like opening a second location or renovating, long-term financing options may be more appropriate. Long-term loans, such as term loans or mortgages, provide businesses with higher amounts of capital to be repaid over longer periods of time. These loans often have lower interest rates compared to short-term financing, but they require a bigger commitment, with repayment terms ranging from three years to a decade or longer. It’s also common for long-term loans to require 

 involves raising funds by selling shares in the company. This method can be beneficial for SMBs that have growth potential but may not qualify for traditional loans. Equity financing allows businesses to access funds without incurring debt, but here’s the rub: it also means sharing ownership and potential profits with investors.

In conclusion, short-term financing can provide SMBs with the capital needed to meet immediate financial needs, considering the ebbs and flows of cash flow. However, it is essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons before opting for this financing option. As part of doing their own research, SMBs should evaluate their unique situation, assess the suitability of short-term financing, and explore alternatives to make informed financing decisions. 

Revenue advances from Pipe are one option for small business owners seeking short-term financing. Pipe’s revenue advance is based purely on the revenue and health of the business and determined through secure, live data connections, so there’s no need for lengthy applications. You only pay for what you use, with flat, transparent fees paid over time, and payments are based on revenue to sync with your business’s cash flow. If you’re considering your options, you can 

 to find out how much capital you’re eligible for.  

Compare the pros and cons of using short-term financing, like short-term loans, merchant cash advances, to operate and grow your SMB.

Compare the pros and cons of using short-term financing, like short-term loans, merchant cash advances, and lines of credit, to operate and grow your SMB

Pros and Cons of Short-Term Financing for SMBs

As a business owner, you know that a strong credit score can be crucial for success. Improving your business credit score can seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps, you can take charge of your finances and build a strong credit history that will benefit your business for years to come. In this article, we'll guide you through understanding your business credit score, building your credit history, and how 

 can help foster growth and creditworthiness.

Business credit scores are provided by credit reporting agencies such as 

. These scores are based on your business's credit history, including your payment history, debt-to-income ratio, and other financial factors that reflect your ability to repay your debts. Unlike 

 from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness.

You can get a copy of your business credit report from Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax. However, unlike your personal credit score, you’re not guaranteed a free copy annually and may have to pay a fee to these providers for access. Checking your business credit score regularly is a great practice–it helps you regularly track your progress and easily identify areas for improvement. 

Factors that Influence Your Business Credit Score

Several factors impact your business credit score, including:

If you’re looking for more traditional funding, your credit score can play a critical role in whether you're approved, what interest rate you're offered, and your terms. 

The Role of Credit Scores in Lending Decisions

Many lenders use your credit score alongside additional factors to determine your creditworthiness. A high credit score indicates to lenders that you're a low-risk borrower who is likely to make on-time payments on your 

 obligations and increases your chances of 

On the other hand, applicants with low credit scores may be viewed as higher risk and face more stringent loan terms or even loan denial. This lower score could be from a variety of factors, like a history of late payments, defaults on previous loans, or simply not being in business for very long, making them less attractive to lenders. 

Unfortunately, a credit score isn’t always the best way to assess a company’s creditworthiness. Some companies are penalized for being young, and others for previous struggles (for example, during the COVID-19 pandemic) even though they’re performing well now. 

Interest Rates and Loan Terms Based on Credit Scores

With many lenders, credit score can significantly affect the interest rate and loan terms you'll qualify for. Companies with lower credit scores may have to pay higher interest rates to compensate for their higher risk level, or may not be able to access financing at all. 

Having a higher credit score may also allow you to qualify for more favorable loan terms, such as a longer repayment period, higher loan amount, or no collateral. This is because lenders view borrowers with high credit scores as less risky and more likely to repay their loans on time. You can build and maintain a good credit score by making on-time payments, keeping your debt levels low, and monitoring your credit report regularly.

Building a strong credit foundation is essential for any business looking to grow, and typically involves key elements like a positive credit history, managing credit responsibly, making timely payments, and keeping debt levels in check. But we’ve compiled some additional practices that can have a big impact on your credit.   

Registering your business properly with the appropriate Secretary of State office for the jurisdiction(s) in which you operate is the first step towards building a strong business foundation. Not only can doing so protect your personal assets, but it can also help establish credibility as a business separate from your personal finances. When registering your business, think strategically about the legal entity that best suits your needs. For example, a corporation or LLC may provide additional protection and credibility.

Opening a business bank account is essential for managing your finances and building a strong credit history. It allows you to keep finances separate rather than commingling business and personal finances, which can jeopardize the liability protection afforded by a corporation and put your personal assets at risk. To find the bank that best suits your needs, compare the factors that matter most to you, like fees, interest rates, customer service, or small business perks. Many FinTechs offer convenient business bank accounts with additional features to help you run your business.

A business credit card can help you build a strong credit foundation. Make sure to follow best practices by making timely payments and keeping your credit utilization ratio under 30%. Keep an eye out–many business cards offered by Banks and FinTechs offer perks and incentives on your business spending.  

Establishing payment history means making timely payments on all loans, credit cards, and other financial obligations. You can set up automatic payments to ensure that payments are always made on time. By establishing a strong payment history, you can build credibility and increase your chances of obtaining additional financing in the future. 

Monitoring your credit report is essential to identify errors or inaccuracies that may be impacting your credit score. Plus, it can help you identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to your financial plan as needed.

Building your business credit history takes time and effort, but with the right steps, you can establish a solid credit history that reflects your business's creditworthiness. 

Work with Vendors that Report to Credit Bureaus

Working with vendors that report to credit bureaus can help you build credit history. If they don’t already do so, you can also ask them to report your payment history, which will help show your reliability over time. 

Pro-tip: Partnering with reputable vendors can help establish a positive reputation and fosters trust among lenders and suppliers, so it’s alway important to evaluate the reputation and the quality of their products or services of potential vendors. 

The amount of credit you're using can impact your credit score. Keep your credit utilization ratio under 30% to avoid hurting your score. If you're using too much of your available credit, consider paying down your balances or requesting a credit limit increase.

Your debt-to-income ratio is the amount of money you owe relative to your income. Maintaining a healthy debt-to-income ratio is crucial for building a strong credit history.

It's also important to have a solid business plan in place and to monitor your cash flow regularly. This can help you avoid taking on too much debt and ensure that you have the resources to pay back any loans or lines of credit that you take on.

Improving your business credit score requires time and effort, but by following the practices above you can establish a strong credit history that reflects your business's creditworthiness. 

Credit score problems, or even a lack of credit history can make financing a challenge for many businesses. Pipe understands that creditworthiness goes beyond a credit score. Unlike lenders, our approval process is based on your revenue and the health of your business, never your credit score. 

that can help you manage your cash flow and run your business more efficiently. 

Find out what a business credit score is, why it matters, and what you can do to increase your business's score.

Find out what a business credit score is, why it matters, and what you can do to increase your business's score and your ability to access credit

How to improve your business credit score and why it matters

How to Improve Your Business Credit Score

Cash is the lifeblood of any business that’s hoping to thrive and scale. If there are 

 problems, it becomes difficult for the business to 

, which can quickly lead to its downfall. This is why access to working capital and good working capital management are so important. 

Working capital represents the capital used in day-to-day operations. It is also known as 

A simple way to think if it is the resources available to cover day-to-day needs. It’s what keeps the wheels of your business turning.

Working capital is calculated as the difference between a company's current assets and its current liabilities (i.e., what a company owns in the short term and what it owes). Current assets include cash, 

, accounts receivable, and other short-term assets, while current liabilities include accounts payable, short-term debts, and other obligations that the company needs to settle within a year.

For businesses, your working capital is an important metric that gives you an idea of your operational efficiency, short-term financial health and how liquid your business is. Think of it as a litmus test for a company's agility and sustainability. Without sufficient working capital, a company might find itself grappling with settling bills with suppliers, struggling to make payroll, or unable to seize promising opportunities for growth. 

A healthy working capital position not only ensures the lights stay on but also positions a company to weather uncertainties, meet its short-term obligations, and capitalize on strategic initiatives. 

There are two primary types of working capital: gross working capital and net working capital. Gross working capital refers to the total of a company's current assets, while net working capital refers to the difference between current assets and current liabilities. Let’s break these down in more detail:

This represents a company's total current assets, including cash, marketable securities, inventory, accounts receivable, and prepaid expenses. These assets are very liquid and, hence, can be quickly converted into cash. The more gross working capital a company has, the better it can handle its short-term bills.

This is more popular and often what we’re referring to when we talk of working capital. Net working capital is a more precise indicator of a company's liquidity. You get your net working capital by 

subtracting your current liabilities from your current assets

. Current liabilities are simply the short-term obligations your business has to pay, usually within a year.

Net working capital shows how much money you have left after you’ve settled your bills/short-term debts.

The importance of working capital in business

Now that you understand what working capital is let’s move into why it’s such an important metric in business:

Adequate working capital ensures the possibility of smooth day-to-day operations. It allows a business to meet its short-term obligations, such as paying suppliers and covering regular expenses like utilities and rent. It also acts as a buffer during unforeseen circumstances, such as economic downturns or unexpected expenses. It provides a safety net, reducing the risk of insolvency.

Working capital is essential for managing inventory levels, enabling businesses to maintain optimal stock levels, and preventing outages.

Sufficient working capital provides a financial cushion for businesses, especially when customers delay payments. It helps to bridge the gap between accounts payable and accounts receivable.

Having working capital offers the flexibility to adapt to changes, whether it's exploring new markets or adjusting production levels. Adequate working capital allows businesses to take advantage of unexpected opportunities, such as bulk purchasing at a discount or investing in a sudden market trend.

Even if a company has cash surpluses, it needs to ensure that this cash is utilized optimally. Working capital management helps in deploying excess cash into investments or activities that generate returns. This could include investments in research and development, expansion projects, or other avenues that enhance owner and stakeholder value.

Learn key strategies to help you manage your working capital to keep your business healthy and sustainable.

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