4 key factors to keep in mind to secure your SME loan in Singapore, Money News

4 key factors to keep in mind to secure your SME loan in Singapore, Money News

How to Keep Your Cash Flow From Doing the Cha-Cha with an SME Loan

Hey there, fellow small‑biz owner! If your cash flow feels more “tight knit” than a knitted hat, you’re probably not alone. Most small businesses run the thrilling roller‑coaster of tight budgets, and when you hit that grade‑A “crunch time,” turning to a Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) loan might just be the lifeline you need.

What’s an SME Loan, Anyway?

  • A loan tailored for small businesses that focuses on growth, equipment, or whatever you need to keep the lights on.
  • It’s usually faster and more flexible than a mortgage or a corporate line of credit.
  • In Singapore, the lending scene is bustling—lots of banks, fintech firms, and traditional lenders are lining up to offer you cash.

Why A Loan Might Be the Right Move

When you’re juggling expenses, the temptation to cut corners is strong, but remember:

  • Don’t pawn your future—just because you can borrow doesn’t mean you should.
  • A well‑structured loan can propel your business forward, soothe a cash crunch, and even open doors to new opportunities.
Key Things to Keep in Mind When Applying
  1. Know Your Numbers: Have a clear picture of your cash flow statements—how much you spend, how much you earn, and where the gaps lie.
  2. Assess Repayment Capacity: Don’t over‑promise. Look at your projected sales and see if you can comfortably cover interest and principal.
  3. Check Collateral Requirements: Some lenders ask for tangible assets or a personal guarantee.
  4. Understand Interest Rates or Fees: These can vary greatly—get the fine print dog‑gone read.
  5. Research Lender Reputation: That’s your first line of defense. Choose a lender that treats borrowers like partners, not just numbers.
Final Takeaway

SME loans are like a friendly cup of coffee for your business—warm, reliable, and when used wisely, they can give you the boost you need to keep sliding through the months with confidence. So gather your figures, talk to a few lenders, and choose the loan that fits your business like a well‑made glove. Your future self will thank you for the smooth ride!

SME loan explained

SME Loans: The Unofficial Cash‑Flow Lifelines for Small Business Heroes

If your business is juggling a million things—customer orders, inventory, rent, that endless stream of coffee cups—then you’ve probably felt the pinch of a cash‑flow crunch. That’s where the SME loan steps in: a friendly financial hand (or even a non‑banking hand!) that lets you tap into extra cash and keep the wheels turning.

What Exactly Is an SME Loan?

Think of it as a short‑term funding boost handed out by both banks and off‑beat lenders. The goal? To give your business the breathing room it needs to grow, survive a seasonal dip, or just stay afloat while you chase that shiny new opportunity.

Types of SME Loans—Because One Size Never Fits All

  • Working‑Capital Loans – The “do‑it‑quick” money that fills in gaps, covers payroll, or buys raw materials when you’re short on cash.
  • Equipment Financing – Ideal for tech geeks and factory owners alike, this option lets you buy or lease the gear your operations demand without draining the bank account.
  • Expansion Loans – When you’re ready to spread your wings, this loan helps fund a new location, upscale inventory, or ramp up marketing.
  • Invoice Financing – For businesses that hate waiting for clients to pay, this is a way to reclaim money tied up in unpaid invoices.
  • Supply‑Chain Financing – It smooths out payments to suppliers, ensuring you don’t miss a beat because of delayed cash flow.

Why Choose an SME Loan?

Because the world of finance can feel like a maze, an SME loan is your shortcut to:

  • Instant Cash Flow – No waiting for contracts to ink.
  • Flexibility – Tailored repayment plans that fit your revenue rhythm.
  • Quick Decision‑Making – Shorter processing times compared to traditional bank loans.

Things to Watch Out For

While these loans can be a blessing, they’re not a magic wand. Keep an eye on:

  • Interest Rates – Some lenders charge higher rates; do your due diligence.
  • Repayment Terms – Make sure the schedule aligns with your cash inflows.
  • Collateral Requirements – Many lenders ask for assets as security; be open and honest about what you’ve got.
Bottom Line: Your Small Business Deserves a Helping Hand

SME loans are like a financial hug—warm, supportive, and just the right amount of pressure to keep you moving forward. Pick the right type, read the fine print, and you’ll be on your way to turning every challenge into a stepping-stone.

Factors to consider to secure your SME loan

How to Make Your SME Loan Application Impossible to Decline

Getting an SME loan isn’t just about pulling out a cheque – it’s a little dance with the lender. Here’s the game plan folded into four golden moves that bump your odds up in no time.

1. Show Your Numbers Like a Boss

  • Clean up your financials: If your statements look like a toddler’s scribble, bail. Lenders want neatness.
  • Bill to your endianness: Make sure all figures match across reports – no hidden inconsistencies.
  • Prep a one‑page financial snapshot: Highlight revenue trends, cash flow health, and debt ratios.

2. Have a Pitch That Sizzles

  • Keep it short: A one‑minute elevator story that captivates the lender’s curiosity.
  • Show the upside: How the loan fuels growth, new markets, or product innovation.
  • Bring a few visuals: Use a chart or two to drive your point home.

3. Know the Lender’s Playbook

  • Do a quick scan: Which interest rate range suits the business type? Credit score window? Pick the right match.
  • Ask about support: Some lenders offer workshops or consulting – show you’re eager to learn.
  • Check the FAQ: Be ready for the typical “why you need the loan?” question.

4. Show You’re Not Just a Dreamer

  • Receive it in your bank: A bank account with a name shows you’re ready for real transactions.
  • Put a personal guarantee or collateral: Lower risk means higher approval probability.
  • Build a track record: Even a few past successes, like winning a small contract, boosts cred.

Wrap Up

So tighten your ballgame, polish those numbers, focus your pitch, and align yourself with the lender’s vibe. Play it smooth, deliver your proof, and you’ll clear that loan maze with the confidence of a seasoned entrepreneur.

Timing is key

Don’t Let Your Bank Sniff Out That Last-Minute Loan Fear

Picture this: your cash register is running on fumes, the bank’s doors are just about to swing shut, and you’re scrambling to convince them that you’re the next big thing. Sounds like a nightmare, right? Unfortunately, many businesses make exactly this mistake—trying to secure a loan when the lights are already flickering.

Why the “Last-Minute” Approach Is a No‑Go

  • Credit Score Demolition: Banks love a company that can’t pay when you last need them. Extending credit to a cash‑crunching company is like giving a construction crane to a toddler—dangerous and likely to ruin trust.
  • The Risk Factor: Financial institutions have built-in safety nets. When a company is on shaky footing, they kick the loan door shut—those low‑risk companies get cozy financing options, the rest…not so much.

Timing Is 4‑4 The Game

Think of loan applications like timing your catch of a cold. Audioproof your best financial moments—think six to twelve months in the future, before the pennies start to pile up. When your balance sheets feel as glam as a supermodel, banks will gladly open their doors.

Pro Tip: Plan Like a Boss
  1. Track your cash flow like your favorite playlist.
  2. Spot the red‑hot moments when your revenue spikes.
  3. Apply now, not when you’re huddled around a coffee mug and counting pennies.

Bottom line: apply when you’re shining instead of when you’re smoldering. Your credit score, your future, and even your sense of humor (don’t let the siren of a loan drive you to midnight despair). Get your plan straight, do your number crunching, and give your business the chill it deserves—then call up the bank. Cheers to smooth financing and less frantic fundraising!

Type of loan

Understanding SME Loans: Your Go-To Guide

Finding the right loan for your small business in Singapore can feel like navigating a maze with a blindfold. Don’t worry—we’ve cut through the confusion and boiled it down to six clear categories. Pick the one that fits your needs, and you’ll be back on track in no time.

1. Classic Bank Loans

These are the reliable, time-tested options from major banks. Expect solid interest rates and a formal application process. Great for steady cash flow and if you already have a solid relationship with the bank.

2. Credit Line Facilities

Think of it as a financial safety net. You’re given a credit ceiling and can dip in whenever your business needs a quick refill. Ideal for seasonal fluctuations—because you can borrow what you need and repay after the sales peak.

3. Government-backed Loans

Singapore’s got your back. Schemes like the SME Working Capital Loan or the SG Enable Fund offer lower rates and sometimes a safety net of partial guarantees. Perfect if you’re looking for a more affordable borrowing route.

4. Micro-Loan Products

Small but mighty! These micro-loans cater to businesses with less capital or when you need a short-term infusion. They’re quick to process and can be the perfect spur of the moment.

5. Merchant Cash Advance

Pay back with a slice of your day‑to‑day sales. No lock-in period—pay whenever your customer pays. Good for businesses that have a steady flow of credit card transactions.

6. Peer-to-Peer Financing

Who said loans had to be from banks? Peer-to-peer platforms connect you to investors who are eager to fund growth. Often faster approvals and flexible terms, but keep an eye on the fees.

Now that you’ve got the quick guide, take a step back, assess your needs, and pick the loan that syncs with your business rhythm. Good luck—and may your capital flow in more fun ways than in a straight line!

Government assistance

Singapore’s Financial Lifeline: The Govt‑Assisted Loans that Saved SMEs During COVID‑19

When the virus tried to break the economy, the government rolled out a superhero toolkit

Picture a city‑wide rescue operation where the government drops a giant safety net onto struggling businesses. That’s exactly what happened in Singapore during the COVID‑19 pandemic: the Ministry rolled out Government‑Assisted (GA) loans to help small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) keep the lights on and the coffee flowing.

How the Loans Worked

  • Administered by Enterprise Singapore (ESG) in partnership with local banks, the scheme means rates are lower than a typical credit card and terms are kinder than a contract with a loan shark.
  • Available in two distinct packages designed for different kinds of businesses:
    • “Growth Boost” – Ideal for companies that need working capital to keep moving while markets stay uncertain.
    • “Resilience‑Ready” – Tailored for firms that want to build a buffer for the next wave of business disruptions.

Why Singapore Made It Happen

Singapore’s tiny size doesn’t stop it from big‑picture thinking. When the pandemic hit, the government didn’t let SMEs drown in the wave of lockdown restrictions. Instead, it offered a lifeline that combined lower interest rates, flexible repayment schedules, and outreach from ESG for the occasional “ask‑me‑anything” hotline.

And the Result?

  • Hundreds of businesses secured their cash flow, maintained employment, and kept customers fed.
  • Beyond merely preserving jobs, the scheme invigorated active entrepreneurship and set the stage for a smoother post‑pandemic recovery.

So, next time you hear someone groan about how the pandemic turned your startup into a guinea pig, remind them: in Singapore, the government has a stash of financial safety nets, and it handed them out just in time.

Enterprise Financing Scheme

Enterprise Singapore’s Umbrella Financing Toolkit

Hey, small‑business owners! Enterprise Singapore gives you a whole buffet of loan options under one big “EnterPrise Financing Scheme (EFS)” umbrella. It’s like a financial Swiss Army knife, covering everything from green initiatives to mergers and acquisitions.

The Seven Pillars of EFS

  • Green Projects
  • SME Working Capital Loan
  • SME Fixed Assets Loan
  • Venture Debt Loan
  • Trade Loan
  • Project Loan
  • Mergers & Acquisitions Loan

If you’re eyeing micro‑loans, equipment funding, factory expansion, or a venture loan, you’re in the right spot.

Financing Limits in a Nutshell

Maximum amounts you can borrow:

  • $100,000
  • $300,000
  • $1,000,000
  • $15,000,000

What About Fees?

Fees vary depending on the loan type you choose.

Interest Rate

Locked at a low 0.1% – that’s less than a fraction of a percent!

Who Qualifies?

  • Registered business entity based in Singapore.
  • At least 30% of the equity is held by Singaporeans or Singapore Permanent Residents (directly or indirectly). Ownership traces back to the ultimate individuals.
  • Group annual sales turnover must not exceed $500 million.

Defining “SME” under EFS

Under this scheme, an SME is any entity with:

  • Group revenue of up to $100 million.
  • No more than 200 employees.

So, if your business ticks those boxes, you’re eligible for a wide range of tailored loans. Grab the tools, boost your growth, and let those projects sail!

Temporary Bridging Loan Programme

Hey, Business Owner! Ready to Grab Some Extra Cash? (Just in case you need it)

What’s the Deal with the Temporary Bridging Loan Programme (TBLP)?

Think of it like a friendly loan buddy that just pushed its 30‑September deadline back to 2022. Got a business that needs a quick boost of working capital? The TBLP comes to the rescue, offering up to S$1 million for you to spend on everything from inventory to marketing. And guess what? You can walk away with that money over a generous five‑year period—no rush, no drama.

Why “Temporary” Is So Temporary (and About Your Money)

There’s no hidden catch—just a real, practical way to keep your business humming while you grow and overtake competition. The TBLP is tailored for small- to medium‑sized enterprises that’re half‑believed in, so let’s break down who can claim this sweet deal.

Who Gets the Green Light? (Read the Fine Print…)
  • Registered & Still in Singapore —The business must be officially on the books and actually operating in Singapore.
  • Local Equity Voice —At least 30 percent of the company’s equity must be owned by Singaporeans or Permanent Residents, either directly or through subsidiaries. The ultimate individual owners determine this.
  • Ready to Use Funds Wisely —You have to show that the money will help solidify your business, not just line the pockets of your whimsical side hustle.
  • Repayment Ready —Because you’ll need to chip in over five years, the scheme expects you’ve got a clear plan to pay back the loan, minus the cheeky misgivings.

How to Kick‑Off the Process (We’ve Got Your Back)

All you have to do is hit up the relevant authority—usually Business Development Board or Bank of Singapore—and fill out the application. Sit tight and let them bat around the paperwork while you keep chasing that next big win.

Final Words (Because Life Is Short)

Whether you’re looking to replace equipment, expand your territory, or create a brand new product line, the TBLP is your friendly partner for just the right amount of time and money. Don’t miss out—grab a loan conversation today and keep that capital flow smooth and resilient.

Unsecured Business Term Loans

What the Heck Are Unsecured Business Term Loans?

Imagine borrowing money without handing over your prized tooth fairy collection or a shiny gold watch. That’s basically what unsecured business term loans look like—your lender is betting on the credibility of your company, not on carved bones or antique clocks.

Why Creditworthiness Matters

  • Financial Health – Profit‑and‑loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports are the “scorecards” lenders rely on.
  • Repayment History – A track record of paying back obligations smooths the path to approval.
  • Credit Score – Think of it as the student-grade version for businesses; higher scores open more doors.

SMEs: Flexibility is Their Superpower

Small and medium‑size enterprises love these loans because they’re as breezy as a summer breeze. Use it for anything:

  • Daily operations, like ordering fresh coffee beans for your café.
  • Grand plans like opening a brand‑new retail location that blinks neon signs.

Collateral? Not Needed!

Since you’re not pledging tangible assets, these loans are often handed out faster than a pizza delivery.

However, the no‑collateral perk comes at a cost. If you’re leaning on a loan that doesn’t demand a safe deposit box as collateral, you’ll likely see higher interest rates. Think of it as paying extra for the ~not​-to‑be‑taken‑away service!

Bottom Line

Unsecured business term loans: Fast, flexible, and great for expansion—but remember, higher rates mean a steeper climb back to financial balance.

Business term loan

Business Term Loans: The Borrowing Ballet

Think of a term loan as a structured dance between you and your lender – usually a bank. You step onto the stage with a note, and then you and the bank agree on a choreography: you’ll pay that note back in neat, fixed steps over a set period of time, called the term.

How the Dance Usually Goes

  • Fixed Schedule: Your payments are locked in – no surprises, just like a well‑planned dance routine.
  • Fixed Interest Rate: Most lenders stick to a single rate, so you know exactly how much “music” you’ll need to play each month.
  • Typical Structure: You take the loan, you get the cash, and then you follow the dance steps of repayment.

When the Song Changes

There are a few adventurous lenders that throw in a variable interest rate – think of it as a remix. The base tune is the loan amount, but the beats can shift depending on market conditions. It adds a bit of unpredictability to the routine, which can be a blessing or a curse depending on your tolerance for surprise moves.

Why You’d Want a Fixed Rate

Stability feels like your favorite jingle; you can plan your budget without the worry of the interest percentage hitting a high note unexpectedly.

When a Variable Rate Might Be Right

If you’re optimistic that rates will dip (or if you’re comfortable with a bit of spice in your financial rhythm), a variable rate might actually lower your cost over time.

In short, a term loan is just a wall‑clocked repayment plan, usually with a steady beat. But if you’re brave enough, a variable rhythm can add some flair to your financial performance. Choose the tune that best suits your style and keep dancing!

Invoice financing

Invoice Financing: The Quick‑Fix Cash Boost Your Small Business Deserves

Ever feel that endless line of invoices stuck in your capital barometer? Let’s give you a shortcut— invoice financing—to turn those looming bills into instant money, so you can keep payroll, pay suppliers, and still have room for that weekend office pizza.

Two Main Ways to Turn Your Invoices into Cash

  • Factoring: You hand your unpaid bills to a finance ally. They’ll hand you up to 90% of the invoice’s value right away. The remaining 10% lathers soon after you pay the lender’s interest—simple as that!
  • Discounting: You’re still the boss of collecting payment. But a lender puts a generous up to 95% of the invoice’s amount into your pocket before the customer actually pays. When the client finally pays you back, you close the deal with a small fee—or interest—and move on.

Why It Matters for Your Business

Imagine a scenario where you can pay your staff on time, keep your suppliers smiling, and still fund that new marketing campaign—no more waiting for your customers to drop the cash. Invoice financing is the sidekick that keeps your day-to-day running smoother than a well‑crafted coffee.

Pro Tips for Maxing Out Your Financing

  • Choose between factoring or discounting based on your cash flow habits.
  • Audit your invoices—clean, precise billing equals quicker financing.
  • Keep an eye on fees and interest to avoid surprises.

Ready to turn those unpaid invoices into power‑up resources? Grant those clients their time to pay, while your business stays pumped with the cash it needs. Let’s get that financial sweep now—before the next invoice date of doom!

Venture debt

Venture Debt: The Startup Sidekick Without the Collateral Drama

What’s the Buzz Around Venture Debt?

Picture this: a tech founder with big ideas, already backed by venture capital, but still craving fresh cash to keep the momentum rolling. That’s where venture debt steps in—think of it as the friendly loan buddy that doesn’t demand your grandma’s silverware as collateral.

Key Rules of the Game

  • No Collateral Required – A sigh of relief for entrepreneurs who value their assets.
  • Debt Size Matters – Typically, the loan equals about 30 % of the last equity round. So if you raised $1 million, you’re looking at a $300,000 loan.
  • Interest Style – You’ll pay interest based on bank rates or the SIBOR (Singapore Interbank Offered Rate). Think of it as the market’s “money-hill” interest.

Why Lenders Say “Sure,”

Because startups can be a wild ride, lenders add warrants to the mix. These give the lender the right to buy your company’s stock at a set price within a defined timeframe. It’s the insurance policy ensuring they still get a sweet return if the venture skates past the finish line.

Why Startups Love It

  1. Fast-access to capital without selling equity.
  2. Keep the control guns in your hand.
  3. Minimal paperwork and a quicker turnaround—no hello‑to‑your‑new‑bank‑person delay!

So next time you’re looking for a money boost that keeps your startup’s spirit intact, remember the casual, collateral‑free charm of venture debt. It’s like a dependable sidekick that keeps the lights on while you chase that big vision—without the burden of collateral nightmares.

Business line of credit

What a Business Line of Credit Really Is

Think of it like a credit card that’s made for your business. The big difference? You can actually lock in a bit of safety with collateral, and that usually means lower interest rates.

How the Magic Works During the Borrowing Phase

  • Draw Time: Grab cash or write checks whenever you need it—no hoops to jump over.
  • Interest Hits Only the Money Used: You pay interest only on what you actually borrow, not the whole line.

When the Fun Stops and the Repayment Begins

  • No More Borrowing: Once you hit your credit limit, it’s a one‑way street—you can’t pull more in.
  • Monthly Pay‑off: Set up fixed payments and clear the balance—no surprises.

In short: it’s flexible, safer with collateral, and kinder on the interest side. Perfect for businesses that need a quick cash boost without a hard sell.

Who to apply to

Beyond the Bank: A Quick Guide to SME Financing

Why Banks Aren’t the Only Option

We all know banks, but guess what—lots of other players are ready to help your small business get the cash it needs.

Meet the Alternatives

  • Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) – These local lenders focus on helping small businesses and communities grow.
  • Credit Unions – With friendly staff and lower rates, they’re a great shortcut to funding.
  • Online Lenders – Fast, flexible, and usually faster than the brick‑and‑mortar brick‑and‑mortar process.
  • Money Lenders – Small‑scale providers that can get you a loan quicker, though usually at higher rates.

Why Choose an Alternative?

Besides lower interest rates, many alternatives offer more personalized service and less stringent requirements—perfect for businesses that don’t fit the traditional bank mold.

Bottom Line

While banks are the classic route, the rise of non‑bank lenders opens up a world of options for SMEs. Don’t let the bank run you; explore the fresh, flexible choices out there!

Licensed banks

SME Loans in Singapore: Your Bank‑Buddy Guide

Thinking of securing a loan for your small‑to‑mid‑size business? You’re probably picturing a bank’s polished building or corporate buzzword. While banks are the go‑to option for many, the approval gate tends to be steely. Let’s break it down and give your application a chance to shine.

Who’s on the bank list?

  • DBS
  • UOB
  • OCBC
  • Standard Chartered
  • Citibank
  • HSBC
  • Maybank
  • RHB

What banks are looking for (and what you should aim at)

  • Revenue: Show you’re not just playing with a sticky note.
  • Owner’s credit score: Think of it as your personal financial “good‑vibes” meter.
  • Business age: Older usually means sturdier.
  • Profitability ratio: Pick a profit margin or return on equity that screams, “I’m profitable!”

Keep these in mind while filling out that application form, and proof that your business tick‑tocks in these areas.

DBS Business Term Loan: The “Top Pick” if You’re Ready

When you have a solid track record, a bank loan can be the quintessential upgrade. DBS’s Business Term Loan delivers:

  • Maximum financing: Up to $500,000
  • Fees: Less than $500 or 2% of the loan amount
  • Interest rate: Starting at 10.88% p.a.
  • Eligibility: All Singapore‑registered businesses (no exclusivity, just inclusivity)

DBS advertises attractive rates (from 10.88%) and substantial loan sizes, over a horizon of up to five years. They also have other products that allow you to borrow even more. If your company enjoys steady revenue, a traditional bank loan or line of credit is a solid bet.

Bottom line: Boost with the Bank, but Prep with Precision

Even though banks often pick the “nice to have” criteria, landing a loan is still doable with the right prep. Highlight your revenue, fortify your credit score, showcase longevity, and crank up that profitability ratio. Then, hit the application with confidence. Happy borrowing!

Non-bank financial institutions

Financing Finesse: Non‑Bank Loans for Singapore SMEs

Did you know that aside from the usual big banks, Singapore’s Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has licensed a whole squad of non‑bank financial institutions ready to back up your business growth? They might miss a few fancy services like foreign exchange, but they’re often better at saying yes to a loan.

Meet the Crew

  • Hong Leong Finance – A name that’s been around for a while.
  • Sing Investments & Finance Ltd. (SIF) – Known for flexible terms.
  • Validus Capital – The star of today’s spotlight.

Why Validus Might Be Your Pal

Thinking of a quick, sizable cash infusion? Here’s why Validus gets the thumbs up:

Max Loan: $250,000
Fees: 1‑2.5 %
Interest Rate: 8.70 %‑26.80 % p.a.
Eligibility: Two‑year operating history, minimum $500,000 revenue.

And the perks? Rates start low—just 0.67 % per month (or 8.7 % yearly). Speed wins because 90 % of approved clients get their cash in under 48 hours. That’s faster than a courier with a flat‑broadband plan!

What’s Available?

  • Term loans up to $250,000 for a 12‑month window.
  • Invoice financing to keep sales flowing.
  • Purchase order loans for those big project deals.
  • Working capital loans to smooth out the day‑to‑day cash snags.

Bottom Line: A Friendly Borrower for Established SMEs

Validus is a solid choice if you’re an SME that’s proved its worth but still needs a handy cheeky loan. It offers a quick, transparent route with rates that make other lenders look a bit…retryable.

So if your business has a “need” meter above the ‘small‑scale’ threshold but below the big‑bank cut‑off, hop on board with Validus. After all, finding the right lender can feel like pairing a good coffee with a great pastry—just the right trade‑off.

Peer-to-peer lending

Peer‑to‑Peer Lending: The Sweet Spot for Small Businesses

Ever felt stuck trying to secure a working‑capital loan from a bank that treats you like a puzzle? Peer‑to‑peer (P2P) platforms are here to change that story. They bring together SMEs who need cash and individual investors looking for a decent return—all without the paperwork nightmare.

How it Works (Simplified)

  • SME Spotlight: Your business is listed on the platform. Investors sift through your profile and credit score.
  • No Bank Hardship: Eligibility rules are relaxed compared to banks.
  • Profit on Interest: Investors earn by charging interest on the loan.
  • Win‑Win: The larger the loan, the bigger the payoff for both sides.

Meet Funding Societies: Your Loan Buddy

Think of Funding Societies as the friendly neighbour who gives you cash when you need it fast. Here’s the low‑down:

Quick Cash: FS Bolt

  • Max Size: Up to $100,000
  • Speed: Cash hits your account in less than 24 hours.
  • Rate & Fees:
    • Interest: 1 – 4 % per month
    • Processing fee: 1 – 5 %
  • Term: 12 months—just like typical SME loans.

Invoice Financing Crunch

  • Instantly fetch up to $1,000,000 from your invoices.
  • Grab 80 % of the invoice value right away.
  • No collateral or early‑repayment fees.

Who Can Borrow?

  • Operating ≥ 6 months
  • Registered in Singapore
  • Minimum 30 % local shareholding
  • No need for exhaustive financial history.

With $2 billion already in play, Funding Societies has been a reliable partner for startups and newly formed SMEs. If you’re seeking a quick, affordable money injection, this platform could be your next best friend.

Quick Comparison

Feature Fee Range Interest Range
Unsecured Loan 1‑4 % 1‑4 % per month
Secured Loan 2‑5 % 2‑5 % per month

Never forget: money, when asked nicely, comes fast—just consider P2P as the cozy alternative to stiff banks.

Eligibility criteria

Are You Ready to Dive into the World of SME Loans?

Every bank and lender has its own set of rules, but most of them look for the same key ingredients when deciding whether to back your small business. Let’s break down the basics so you can breeze through the application process.

Top 4 Things Banks Check for Your SME Loan

  • Business Formation – Has your company been officially incorporated in Singapore?
  • Years in Business – You’re looking at a minimum of two years on record. Time is money, after all.
  • Revenue Milestone – The bank will want to see at least SG$300,000 in annual sales.
  • Local Ownership – Roughly 30% of your shares should be owned by Singaporeans or PRs. It’s all about showing local roots.

Why These Numbers Matter

Think of these criteria as the bank’s ice‑breaker: they help filter out the businesses that can truly carry their weight. If you tick all the boxes, you’re already a step ahead.

Ready to Find Your Match?

Once you’ve got a solid grasp of the eligibility checklist, it’s time to hunt for the best SME loan in Singapore. Head over to our 2022 Best SME Loans for Small Businesses in Singapore review – we’ve got juicy details to help you pick the perfect lender.

Happy loan hunting, and here’s to your business growing like a happy pineapple in the city! (Just don’t forget to feed it sunshine and good soil – or in this case, steady revenue and local backing.)