Refreshed Business Funding Guide supports COVID crisis survival

AN UPDATED Business Funding Guide, which has been revised to reflect feedback and support small businesses impacted by the COVID crisis, has been released today.

The guide, developed by the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman in partnership with Scottish Pacific Business Finance, is primarily written for accountants, bookkeepers and other accredited financial advisers, to assist their small business clients to find appropriate funding and increase their chances of getting approved for finance.

“Trading conditions have changed dramatically since we released the first Business Funding Guide last year,” Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell said.

“The guide was originally intended to help small businesses secure funding for growth, however given the heavy toll the COVID crisis has taken on small businesses, the focus is now firmly on their survival.

“While many small businesses are still eligible for government support, these measures are temporary and plans will need to be made to fund their recovery, reinvention and growth.

“This independent guide provides comprehensive up-to-date information about a range of funding options available to small businesses, along with a step-by-step pathway to becoming ‘finance fit’ to give small businesses their best chance at success with the application process.

“Even at the best of times, many small businesses face an uphill battle to secure funding," Ms Carnell said.

“We know many have not bothered to apply due to the onerous application process and unrealistic serviceability requirements. Even for loans that have been 50 percent guaranteed by the Federal Government, small businesses have been asked for all sorts of documentation including director guarantees, which really means the family home.

“That’s why it is crucial small businesses understand the growing range of financial providers and products on the market – the big four banks are not the only game in town.

“Small business owners that need funding to stay afloat and recover from this challenging period need to consider all of the funding options, including those that are not tied to the family home, to make the best choice for their business," she said.

“Finally, it is vital small business borrowers ensure their lender is an AFCA member and talk to their trusted accredited financial adviser – who has our Business Funding Guide – before taking out a loan.”

www.asbfeo.gov.au

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