When a small business starts to grow, the need for investment becomes crucial. New opportunities require new resources and, without solid financial backing, even the most promising businesses can see their rate of expansion jeopardised. It is therefore extremely important to know how to identify the best financing solution for small businesses in order to sustain growth, modernise operations, hire talent or invest in technology.
Types of financing available for small businesses
Today's market offers a variety of financing options, each with its own particularities that can best respond to the different needs and stages of a business's development. The main options include:
- Bank loanstraditional, time-limited and ideal for structured investments with predictable returns;
- Credit linesperfect for covering unforeseen events or bolstering cash flow at critical times;
- Leasing and rentingThe main reasons for this are: they enable access to equipment or technology without jeopardising the company's capital;
- Microcredit: aimed at micro-enterprises or start-up entrepreneurs.
Choosing the right type of financing can make all the difference to the growth and sustainability of a small business.
In addition, a careful assessment of the needs of the business, the stage it is at and the conditions of each option available is essential for making safe and efficient financial decisions.
How do you choose the right financing option for your business?
Each company has unique characteristics, so the choice of the most suitable business financing must be taken into account:
- The amount needed to invest realistically;
- Monthly payment capacitywithout jeopardising the treasury;
- The purpose of the fundingWhether it's physical expansion, hiring human resources, technological investment or strengthening communication;
- The company's financial structureand in particular whether or not you have any guarantees to offer.
A realistic analysis of the company's needs and financial capacity can ensure the necessary support without jeopardising the stability of the business.
Public vs. private financing for growing companies
The small businesses in the growth phase can resort to both public and private funding, and the best choice will depend on the profile of the business, the urgency of the financial support and the type of conditions the company is willing to accept.
Public funding
Public funding, through IAPMEI incentives or European funding programmes, offers attractive conditions such as reduced interest rates or non-repayable grants. However, it involves formal application processes and demanding eligibility criteria.
Private funding
On the other hand, private financing, such as venture capital or the support of business angelsis generally faster and more flexible, although it often involves giving up part of the company's capital.
How can you use crowdfunding to finance your business?
Crowdfunding for companies has become a viable and innovative alternative for raising capital. This model makes it possible to raise finance from a large number of supporters and investors who believe in the company's mission, product or service.
In order to maximise the success of a crowdfunding campaign, we recommend:
- A clear and well-founded proposal;
- The definition of realistic goals and rewards aligned with the interests of the target audience;
- An active communication strategy to publicise the campaign and help to building customer loyalty.
To facilitate payments for those who decide to support the project, the REDUNIQ@Payments offers a practical solution: it allows you to send payment links by SMS, e-mail, WhatsApp, Multibanco or MBWAY referenceThis is an essential feature for capturing contributions simply and securely.
Tips to improve your eligibility for business financing
Proper preparation can significantly increase the likelihood of obtaining business financing. Here are some good practices:
- Draw up a business plan well-structured, with clear goals and realistic projections;
- Present organised and up-to-date accounts that prove financial responsibility;
- Maintain good relations with banks, suppliers and partners.
These measures increase investor and lender confidence, contributing to access to better financing conditions.
Grow your small business sustainably
Securing finance for small businesses is an essential step towards growth. But for that growth to be sustainable, it's important to complement it with technological solutions that increase the efficiency, security and responsiveness of the business.
This is where REDUNIQ stands out by offering various payment solutions adapted to each type of business.
Starting with REDUNIQ Smart, a solution that offers entrepreneurs a automatic payment terminal (TPA) innovative, intuitive and with advanced functionalities such as Contactless technology and the ability to develop management apps.
Two of the apps you can find are: Parcela Já com UNICRE e PIX.
With the solution Parcela Já com UNICREyou can offer your customers instalment paymentsThis increases purchasing power and, at the same time, business sales.
With o Brazil's leading payment method, which recently arrived in Portugaltraders can receive PIX payments immediate contact with Brazilian clients, an added value for businesses that receive tourists or deal with Brazilian clients.
With REDUNIQbusinessmen will find more than means of payment. They find a reliable partner who offers solutions designed to accompany the evolution of each business, whether it's a physical shop, a digital platform or a crowdfunding campaign.
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