Government Supported Loans For SME’s Going Green

Green Financing Singapore

As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, there has never been a more crucial time than today to embrace sustainable practices in your business practise. For businesses, both large and small, transitioning to a green and environmentally responsible approach is not just a moral obligation but also a smart economic choice.

The government’s role in facilitating this transition for SME owners is pivotal, and the Enterprise Financing Scheme – Green (EFS-G) is a shining example to enable better access to green financing for this 3 types of enterprises : Project Developers, System Integrators and Technology & Solution Enablers. The 3 types of enterprises will develop, manufacture and enable technologies and solutions to reduce waste, resource use or greenhouse gas emissions which will results in a position environmental impact.

 

The Imperative of Going Green

The urgency of going green cannot be overstated. Our planet is facing an environmental crisis, with climate change, air and water pollution, and resource depletion threatening not only the environment but also human health and well-being. Recognizing this, businesses of all sizes are increasingly taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint. This transition is crucial for several reasons:

  1. Environmental Responsibility: Businesses have a role to play in preserving our planet’s health. By adopting sustainable practices, they can reduce their carbon emissions, minimize waste, and protect biodiversity.
  2. Competitive Advantage: Going green is more than just a moral obligation; it’s also a business strategy. Consumers are increasingly conscious of a company’s environmental impact and often favor eco-friendly products and services.
  3. Cost Savings: Sustainability practices can lead to significant cost reductions. Energy-efficient operations, waste reduction, and resource optimization can improve a company’s bottom line.
  4. Regulatory Compliance: Many countries are implementing stricter environmental regulations. By proactively adopting green practices, businesses can stay ahead of compliance requirements.

The Enterprise Financing Scheme – Green (EFS-G) By Enterprise Singapore

Recognizing the importance of supporting businesses in their sustainability efforts, the government plays a critical role in facilitating the transition. The Enterprise Financing Scheme – Green (EFS-G) by Enterprise Singapore is one scheme that focuses on providing financial support to SMEs pursuing green growth projects such as Clean Energy, Circular Economy, Green Infrastructure and Clean Transportation. It is an integral part of the broader ecosystem that encourages businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices.

 

Eligibility Criteria for EFS-Green

The 3 types of eligible enterprises must:

    • be a business entity that is registered and physically present in Singapore,
    • have at least 30% local equity held directly or indirectly by Singaporean(s) and/or Singapore PR(s), determined by the ultimate individual ownership,
    • have group annual sales turnover of not more than S$500 million,
    • and meet the four qualifying sector below.
    1. Clean Energy & Decarbonisation
    2. Circular Economy & Resource Optimisation
    3. Green Infrastructure
    4. Clean Transportation (Land, Sea and Air)

Benefits of EFS-G for SMEs

The EFS-G offers several advantages to SMEs that are committed to adopting environmentally friendly practices:

  1. Affordable Financing: SMEs can access green loans at preferential interest rates, reducing the overall cost of their green projects.
  2. Extended Tenures: Longer repayment periods allow SMEs to manage their cash flows more effectively and reduce the financial burden associated with green initiatives.
  3. Enhanced Market Competitiveness: With green certification and sustainable practices, SMEs can differentiate themselves in the market, attract environmentally conscious consumers, and gain a competitive edge.
  4. Regulatory Compliance: SMEs can meet and exceed environmental regulations, avoiding potential fines and penalties.
  5. Sustainability for the Future: Investing in green projects today ensures a sustainable and environmentally responsible future for SMEs and society as a whole.

Conclusion

The importance of going green cannot be overstated in a world where environmental challenges are becoming increasingly pressing. SMEs play a vital role in this transition, and government support through initiatives like the Enterprise Financing Scheme – Green (EFS-G) is instrumental in facilitating this change. The EFS-G offers affordable financing, encourages sustainable practices, and ensures that SMEs can thrive in a future where environmental responsibility is not just a choice but a necessity. Embracing the green wave is not only a moral obligation but a sound business strategy for SMEs seeking to remain competitive and resilient in a rapidly changing world. If you would like to know whether your upcoming projects is suitable for this, do contact us and we will advise you accordingly.

How Invoice Financing Can Help SME’s In Solving Their Cash Flow

As SME business owners are aware, the consistent flow of cash is the lifeblood that sustains any business. The absence of adequate cash flow can lead even profitable businesses to insolvency.

 

Why is why, in addition to sales and marketing products and services that can delight customers or customer success to ensure customers would be satisfied, business owners must also prioritize managing cash flow. Cash flow isn’t merely essential for the ongoing operation of our company but is also crucial for realizing our business scaling ambitions.

 

As business owners, there are various strategies to enhance the business cash flow. Business owners should vigilantly monitor both incoming and outgoing cash to anticipate any potential gaps in cash flow that might emerge in the future. This entails staying informed about customer receivables, particularly if they begin to take longer to be settled, and being aware of upcoming bills and expenditures, including their supplier payment due dates. Utilizing a financial forecasting softwares or a business financial management tools can be immensely helpful in this regard.

 

To assist business owners with more cash in the bank, business owners can leverage government-supported loans such as SME Working Capital Loan. These loan options enable us to expand our business in the specific areas we desire while simultaneously strengthening our financial foundation.

 

Aside from taking bank loans as the common avenues, this is not the only options in the market. Another alternatives that business owners can tap into is invoice financing.

 

How Invoice Financing Works ?

There are basically 2 main types of invoice financing in the market.

Invoice Financing Purchase 

Invoice financing purchase allows business owners to use banks funds to pay the supplier based on the invoices provided by the supplier. This allows business owners to hold on to their current cash flow and utilise 3rd party (bank) monies to pay supplier immediately and avoid late payment fees.

For Example : ABC Company purchase equipment from 123 Supplier for business operation. ABC company can apply for invoice financing from the bank and the bank will pay the invoice of the equipment to 123 Supplier. Prior to the due date of the invoice, ABC Company pay back to the bank will do.

Invoice Financing Purchase
Explanation of invoice financing (purchase)

 

Invoice Financing Sales

Invoice financing sales is the opposite of invoice financing purchase. It allows business owners to use banks funds to pay the the company first accordingly to the invoices given by the company to the customer. This allows business owners to collect immediate “payment” from the bank.

Think of it as bank paying the invoice on behalf of the customer to the company first.

For Example : Client ABC purchase product from company 123. Company123 can apply for invoice financing from the bank and the bank will pay the invoice fee on behalf of Client ABC, ABC Client will pay back to the bank.

Invoice Financing Sales
Explanation of invoice financing (sales)

 

It is important to know that both invoice financing purchase and invoice financing sales are two different kinds of invoicing financing. If you are looking to borrow money to purchase goods from your suppliers, you will need to use invoice financing purchase. If you want an advance payment on the invoices that you have sent to your customers, you will use invoice financing sales.

 

Whether it’s invoice financing purchase or invoice financing sales, the amount you get would from the bank would be considered a loan. Therefore, there will be interest charge and a fee attached to it. Your company has to repay the amount borrowed back to the bank upon the loan maturity (Invoice due date).

Alteratively, business owners can also choose to draw down a lower amount than what is stated on the invoice if you do not need to borrow that much. This way, you do not have to pay unnecessary interest charges and fees.

 

Why business owners choose invoice financing (as opposed to other business loans) is that it gives you access to funds when you need it the most. So, if you have to pay your suppliers first, you can use invoice financing purchase. If you already sold products to your customers and are waiting for payment, you can use invoice financing sales to receive your money first allowing you to give your customers a longer credit term.

 

As SME business owners, you should keep a close watch over your company’s cash flow, and to identify possible bottleneck points where you may encounter cash flow . Once you are aware that you may face a cash flow crunch, you can consider the various financing tools available to tap on if you wish to, whether it’s invoice financing purchase or invoice financing sales.

 

Need Financing ?

Enjoy complimentary consultantation with our consultants and get access to funds and receive your loan approval in the shortest amount of time by making an appointment with Beez Rev.

The Critical Difference Between Growing and Scaling Your Business

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, the terms “growing” and “scaling” are often used interchangeably, leading to a misconception that they mean the same thing. However, in reality, they represent two distinct strategies, each with its unique objectives, approaches, and implications. Understanding the difference between growing and scaling is crucial for entrepreneurs seeking to chart a successful course for their businesses.

scaling vs growing

  1. Goal:

Growing: Growing a business primarily revolves around the process of increasing its size, revenue, or market share. It often involves expanding product lines, entering new markets, or attracting more customers. The key focus here is on expansion and increasing the company’s resources and capabilities.

Scaling: Scaling, on the other hand, concentrates on boosting revenue and profitability while maintaining or even reducing costs in proportion to that growth. The goal is to achieve exponential growth without a linear increase in resources or expenses.

  1. Strategy:

Growing: Growing a business typically involves incremental changes and a linear relationship between effort and results. This might include hiring more employees, opening new locations, or diversifying product offerings.

Scaling: Scaling, in contrast, necessitates finding ways to achieve exponential growth without a proportional increase in resources. This often requires leveraging technology, automation, and streamlined processes to handle increased demand without significantly increasing costs.

With the support from government to SME owners, business owners looking to scale their business can tap into various grants to help with lowering their cost when it comes to implementing their strategy.

  1. Resource Allocation:

Growing: Businesses that are growing may need to allocate more resources, such as capital and manpower, to support their expansion. This can lead to increased overhead and operational complexities.

 

Scaling: Scaling businesses focus on optimizing their current resources and finding efficiencies to streamline their process and assist in growth. The emphasis is on maximizing output with minimal additional investment.

 

  1. Profitability:

Growing: Growing a business often prioritize top-line revenue growth over immediate profit margins. The willingness to invest in expansion activities, even if they don’t yield immediate returns, can lead to a wrong focus on the business.

 

Scaling: Scaling businesses often aim to increase profitability while growing. They seek ways to expand without sacrificing profitability, which can involve innovative pricing models, cost control, and efficient operations.

 

  1. Risk and Sustainability:

Growing: Linear quick growth can be riskier, as it often requires taking on large debt or seeking external funding to support it’s expansion. How a business is able to sustain may become a concern if growth outpaces the ability to generate profits causing company to dip into their bank accounts to support the growth.

 

Scaling: Scaling aims for sustainable, long-term growth. It’s often seen as a more measured and controlled approach, with a focus on maintaining financial stability and minimizing risks.

 

Examples:

A local call centre mass hiring telemarketer is an example of growing a business. They are increasing their outreach and customer base which requires more resources and operational efforts.

 

A F&B outlet with multiple stores using central kitchens without significantly expanding their back end team such as chefs is an example of scaling a business. By leveraging on a central location and a single distribution line, they can efficient their processes while achieving exponential growth without huge increase in their costing.\

 

Conclusion:

Understanding the difference between growing and scaling is essential for entrepreneurs to make informed decisions about their business strategies. While both approaches have their merits, the choice between them should align with the company’s goals, resources, and risk tolerance. By grasping the nuances of these strategies, entrepreneurs can better navigate the path to business success.

Lego’s Impressive Profit Margins and Strategies You Can Adopt

Lego profit margins

Profit margins are a critical measure of a company’s financial health and efficiency. In this article, we’ll analyze the cost of goods sold (COGS), overhead costs and operating profit of five prominent companies: Lego, Hasbro, Mattel, LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), and Ferrari. Alongside this analysis, we’ll explore strategies that business owners like you can employ to enhance your profit margins and overall financial performance.

Leading companies profit and overhead costs

Comparative Analysis of Profit Margins, COGS, and Overhead Costs

  1. Lego Group:
    • Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): 31%
    • Overhead Costs as a Percentage of Revenue: 41%
    • Operating Profit Margin: 28%
  2. Hasbro, Inc.:
    • Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): 33%
    • Overhead Costs as a Percentage of Revenue: 60%
    • Operating Profit Margin: 7%
  3. Mattel, Inc.:
    • Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): 54%
    • Overhead Costs as a Percentage of Revenue: 33%
    • Operating Profit Margin: 12%
  4. LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton):
    • Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): 32%
    • Overhead Costs as a Percentage of Revenue: 42%
    • Operating Profit Margin: 27%
  5. Ferrari N.V.:
    • Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): 52%
    • Overhead Costs as a Percentage of Revenue: 24%
    • Operating Profit Margin: 24%

Key Takeaways from the Analysis:

 

  • Lego boasts the highest profit margins, with an exceptional operating profit margin of 28%.
  • Hasbro faces challenges with its high overhead costs, which account for a significant portion of its revenue, affecting its overall profit margins.
  • LVHM enjoys healthy operating profit margins despite its luxurious niche, showcasing the power of brand strength and pricing strategies.

Strategies to Boost Profit Margins

  1. Pricing Strategies:
    • Adjust pricing strategically to maximize profit margins without alienating customers. Implement dynamic pricing based on demand and consider premium pricing for unique offerings.
  2. Cost Control and Efficiency:
    • Continuously evaluate and optimize operational processes to reduce COGS. Implement lean manufacturing, efficient supply chain management, and inventory control to minimize wastage.
    • Companies like Lego relied on customer feedbacks for their product design. This helps to reduce overheads as their cost of designer will be reduced heavily due to this strategy.
  3. Product Mix Optimization:
    • Focus on high-margin products or services within your portfolio. Consider discontinuing or repositioning low-margin offerings to improve overall profitability.
  4. Marketing and Sales Effectiveness:
    • Invest in targeted marketing campaigns to attract high-value customers. Enhance your sales team’s training and skills to close deals more efficiently.
    • Combining Sales and Marketing with product mix optimization is a good combination. Your sales and marketing team could use low cost products as a way to get leads and in return, upsell or cross sell products or service with higher margin.
  5. Customer Segmentation:
    • Identify and cater to profitable customer segments. Tailor marketing efforts and product offerings to meet the specific needs and preferences of these segments.
  6. Diversification:
    • Explore opportunities for diversification into related or complementary markets. Expanding your product or service range can open up new revenue streams.
  7. Technology Adoption:
    • Embrace technology and automation to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. Invest in analytics tools for data-driven decision-making.
  8. Debt Management:
    • Carefully manage debt levels and interest expenses. Reducing debt can free up more resources for investment or debt repayment.

Conclusion

Analyzing the profit margins, COGS, and overhead costs of leading companies provides valuable insights into different industries and their profitability strategies. By implementing a combination of these strategies, you can enhance your profit margins, drive sustainable growth, and ultimately achieve long-term success in today’s competitive business landscape.

Adaptation and innovation through data analysis will be key to navigate the evolving economic and market conditions and make the right shift to continue and outperform your competitors.

New Start Up Financing Options In Singapore : A Comprehensive Guide

Business loans in Singapore

Singapore has emerged as a dynamic hub for startups and entrepreneurs in recent years, attracting investors from around the world with its business-friendly environment, strategic location and robust support ecosystem.

For Singaporeans, entrepreneurship is one of the way to skyrocket their earnings instead of a 9-5 fixed salary job. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to start a startup in Singapore, one of the most critical aspects when starting your journey will be securing the necessary funding to turn your dream into reality.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options available for financing your startup in this Lion City.

  1. Personal Savings

Starting a business often begins with your own personal savings. Using your own funds can be a wise choice as it gives you complete control over your venture and avoids accumulating debt from the outset.

  1. Family and Friends

Another common source of initial funding comes from friends and family. Your loved ones who believe in your idea may be willing to invest or provide loans to help you get started. However, it is crucial to formalize these arrangements to prevent unncessary misunderstandings later.

  1. Angel Investors

Angel investors are high-net-worth individuals who provide capital to startups in exchange for equity or convertible debt. Singapore has a vibrant community of angel investors eager to support promising ventures.

  1. Venture Capital Firms

Singapore boasts a thriving venture capital ecosystem, with numerous firms seeking investment opportunities in high-growth startups. To attract VC funding, you’ll need a compelling business plan and a clear path to rapid scaling.

  1. Government Grants and Schemes

The Singaporean government offers various grants and schemes to support startups. The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG), Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG), and Startup SG Equity scheme are just a few examples. These programs provide not only financial support but also valuable mentorship and resources.

  1. Startup Incubators and Accelerators

Participating in an incubator or accelerator program can provide your startup with invaluable resources, including funding, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry experts and investors.

  1. Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer opportunities to raise funds from a diverse group of backers who believe in your project. Singapore also has its own crowdfunding platforms like FundedHere.

  1. Bank Loans and Financing

Traditional bank loans and lines of credit are an option for startups, though they may require collateral or personal guarantees for new start ups. Carefully evaluate the terms and interest rates to determine if this is the right choice for your business.

For new start up that are less than 6 months old, this choice would not be viable as the banks would require as least 6 months of operations before the banks would consider lending to.

  1. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending

P2P lending platforms such as Funding Societies and MoolahSense provide alternative financing avenues for startups and small businesses.

  1. Corporate Partnerships

Partnering with established companies relevant to your industry can bring not only capital but also access to resources and a broader customer base. For example, If you are a car workshop looking for funding, what you can do is to look for car rental companies that would need your support in repairing their vehicle.

This way, it is a win win situation for both you and the investor’s by establishing this corporate partnership.

 

Conclusion

Securing financing for your startup in Singapore is a critical step on your entrepreneurial journey. The good news is that there are numerous funding options available, each with its own advantages and considerations.

To make the right choice, start by assessing your funding needs, understanding the requirements of each financing option, and crafting a compelling pitch if you are looking for partnerships and investors.

Seek professional advice when necessary to ensure compliance with Singapore’s regulations and to protect your interests. With the right strategy and determination, your startup can thrive in Singapore’s dynamic business landscape.

A Simple Guide To Small Business/SME Loans In Singapore

Business loans successfully done.

If you are a small business owners, SME owners or a new start up and you are struggling with cash flow and you are looking for options to improve your business cash flow, what are the options available in the market ?

What are the different business loan options is available in Singapore ?

Business loan is referring to any kind of loan provided to a company for business uses. There are a different kinds of loans available.

1. Some are offered for whatever business needs you might need. Such as managing cashflow, streamline your business process or further your growth.
2. Some are curated for certain business needs. Such as purchasing machinery or property.
3. And there are also loans catered for your invoices and purchasing orders.

A typical business loans is a unsecured loan (no collateral is needed), up to 5 years for repayment of loans. Right now, in the market, we have major banks such as DBS, UOB, OCBC etc.. , digital banks such as Anext, GLDB (Green Link Digital Bank) and private funders.

The difference between private funders and major banks will be the terms of the repayment and interest rate.

SME Working Capital Loan

This is a special type of business loan from Singapore government working with banks to offer to local SMEs (max. 200 employees with 30% owned by Singaporeans/PRs) with financing up to $1 million per borrower with a repayment within 1 to 5 years.

Equipment and Machinery Loan

Company looking to purchase commercial units such as office, factory, warehouse etc. can look into property loan to finance their purchase.

Fixed and Sora ratespackages are offered to companies.

Also, if you would like to tap on grants for you renovation, you can apply for a consultation here.

Invoice Financing

If you are facing cashflow because of unpaid invoice, this is the loan that you can tap into.

Invoice financing (IF) is a short term loan that is backed by customer or supplier invoices. Financial institute would usually finance up to 80% of the unpaid invoice into cash for business owners for immediate cash flow.

In addition, the interest rate will only be for the amount that is used and the duration of the loan.

How to apply for business loans ?

Once you have identified which business loans suits your business needs, you could prepared the necessary documents.

  1. Directors NRIC and NOA
  2. Company 6 Months Bank Statements
  3. 3 years Financial Reports.
  4. Proof of Director Income.
  5. Debtors and Creditors Aging List

With Beez Rev, we will assist you to source for the lowest interest rates in the market and are fully commited to serve your business financing needs.

Regardless of your business financial needs, our experienced consultants will be able to tailored various loan packages that is in your favor.