WELCOME !

Thanks for dropping in for some hopefully great business info and on occasion some hopefully not too sarcastic comments on the state of Business Financing in Canada and what we are doing about it !

In 2004 I founded 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL. At that time I had spent all my working life, at that time - Over 30 years in Commercial credit and lending and Canadian business financing. I believe the commercial lending landscape has drastically changed in Canada. I believe a void exists for business owners and finance managers for companies, large and small who want service, creativity, and alternatives.

Every day we strive to consistently deliver business financing that you feel meets the needs of your business. If you believe as we do that financing solutions and alternatives exist for your firm we want to talk to you. Our purpose is simple: we want to deliver the best business finance solutions for your company.



Showing posts with label Canadian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Canadian. Show all posts

Friday, August 24, 2018

Power Your Business Financing with Canadian ABL Services : Why Asset Based Lending Works
















Unsurpassed Financing Flexibility With Asset Based Lending



Information on Canadian ABL services and why asset based financing and lending eliminates working capital challenges




It's always about the bank. Well ... not always... It seems that Canadian business financing continues to evolve and Canadian ABL services via asset based financing credit facilities are slowly getting to the top of the popularity pile.

Why this type of financing work well and why does is it becoming the accepted alternative to traditional Canadian chartered bank financing? We think we know why.

Although it might seem that the Canadian business and economic environment changes quickly these days we maintain that for the last two or 3 years the one thing that hasn’t changed is the ability for Canadian business owners and financial managers to get ' traditional ' financing from those great folks at the bank.

Skepticism and bank regulations in Canada seem to eliminate more and more qualified business borrower’s everyday. So it’s a struggle and if you are a small or medium sized firm in Canada the ability to grow or change your business is difficult.

Enter ABL lending in the Canadian marketplace. This type (we call it non-bank) of revolving credit facility is the new ' band aid ' for almost any size business, filling the void between traditional financing.

So why an asset is based lending facility able to work for your firm when a bank facility might not even is attainable. We guess it’s about risk and reward, in that for the same or higher cost almost any decent sized business has the ability to qualify for ABL services and financing.

The other side of the coin is also that the whole approval process is often quicker, in that there is only one key agenda item to review - your assets. Typically these assets are receivables; inventory and equipment, with real estate a borrowing possibility also, included right in your asset based lending facility.

We speak of the ' power ' of ABL. The true power lies simply in the fact that the assets we mentioned that are used as collateral are margined significantly higher than in the manner that a bank would margin those same assets. So it isn’t your financial statements strength that has the power - it’s those ' assets ' within the financials!

The broad appeal of asset based lending also lies in the fact that it’s flexible, that the other side of our ABL power equation. Your firm doesn’t necessarily have to be profitable (it helps ... but not required) and even if you face current financial challenges and setbacks you are still eligible. Even special loans clients can use ABL to escape from the restrictive claws of a special loans environment.

So whats our bottom line - it simply that if the Canadian banking environment continues to be unable to serve the demands of fast growing or challenged business... well... ABL financing services will step in and nicely fill that gap.

Ultimately it still might be your business goal to obtain a ' traditional ' facility. That’s ok of course. In the meantime thought consider the true power of asset based lines of credit as a funding option that will meet all your financing needs... today! Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor to eliminate that uphill financing battle you've been facing.







7 Park Avenue Financial :
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8



Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office
= 905 829 2653


Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

Click here for 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com



Business financing for Canadian Firms , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing , Equipment Leasing , franchise finance and Cdn. Tax Credit Finance . Founded 2004 - Completed in excess of 100 Million $ of financing for Canadian corporations .



' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '



ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations.
Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.

Stan has over 40 years of business and finance executive experience. He has been recognized as a credit/financial executive for three of the largest technology companies in the world; Hewlett-Packard, Digital Equipment and Cable & Wireless. Stan has had in depth, hands on experience in assessing and evaluating thousands of companies that are seeking financing and expansion. He has been instrumental in helping many companies progress through every phase of financing, mergers & acquisitions, sales and marketing and human resources. Stan has worked with startups and public corporations and has many times established the financial wherewithal of organizations before approving millions of dollars of financing facilities and instruments on behalf of his employers.



Saturday, May 25, 2013

Small Business Government Financing . 6 Things You Might Not Know About Canadian SBL Loans




You Might Have It Wrong On Government SBL/BIL Loans






OVERVIEW – .Information on small business government financing loans in Canada. The SBL Loan works for thousands of companies just like yours with Canadian finance needs




Canadian small business government financing . There isn’t a day when we don't meet clients who are looking for information on the SBL loan in Canada. What's worse, in many cases what they do know... well suffice to say... they've got it wrong. We think we can fix that in pretty short order, so let's dig in!

There are several methods of financing a start up in the start up and SME sector in Canada. Knowing what they are and preparing to address them is what the business owner/manager needs to deal with.

In many cases our clients often focus on their bank that they have always dealt with - that comes from the convenience of a past and current relationship more often than not. Just remember though that convenience and a short walking distance are not always guarantors of successful Canadian business financing!

No Canadian chartered bank is going to bend rules or get involved in marginal situations, so it’s important to focus on a bank and banker that will deliver - many do, but not all. While things like fees, access to on line services, etc are important they ultimately depend on getting your company the kind of credit and working capital you need.

Common sources of business financing in Canada also include unsecured business lines of credit, business credit cards, supplier financing, equipment and receivable financing.

But is that all? Definitely not, because today we're focusing on the Govt SBL loan and why it just might make sense for your firm.

So, here's 6 things you might not know about the BIL (that’s the formal name of the program) loan in Canada.

1. The loan has limited personal guarantees (for some reason our clients like that one!)

2. Pricing is very competitive given that many businesses that apply are in start up or very early years of growing their business

3. There are only 3 asset categories that can be financed - they are equipment assets (including trucks, etc), Leasehold improvements, and real estate.

4. The term ' government ' is a bit of a misnomer - while the government runs the program and guarantees the loan to banks in actuality all loans are delivered through the chartered banking system. So as much as the Canadian business owner dreams about having a strong day to day relationship with the government and its business the reality is that its business as usual with no direct contact with the government!

5. Many clients imagine the application is cumbersome and involved. It isn’t. You need a business plan, some very normal info on your business - i.e. articles of incorporation, premises lease, etc - Voila... you're off to the races. Oh and by the way, while many business people choose to be incorporated you in fact can be a proprietorship or partnership.

6. Even firms that are start up in nature can be financed under the program which provides a maximum loan of 350,000.00. That covers off a lot of business financing needs.

So, did you have it wrong? Many do... so seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you with your finance needs via small business government financing - aka the ' SBL '.






Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 10 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing.
Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

7 Park Avenue Financial = Canadian Small Business SBL Loan Financing






CONTACT:
7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8
Phone = 905 829 2653
Fax = 905 829 2653
Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com













Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Your Company Successful And Going Broke? Here’s Why! Business Cash Flow And Working Capital Solutions For Canadian Business



Measuring and Solving Challenges of Business Cash Flows


Information on business cash flow in the Canadian financing arena . Measuring and solving working capital challenges .




Business cash flow. It's the reason that thousands of Canadian businesses, everyday, must feel like they have a combined feeling of ' going broke ' while seeing their sales rise at the same time.

It's very wrong of course to assume that profits out of those sales assumes positive working capital equals profits. That is absolutely not the case.

Yes, over the long run those profits will become cash, but what about the gap? That’s that lag in between that is giving our business owners that ' broke ' feeling!

Business cash flow is in fact the ' lubricant ' that keeps your company running. You get that working capital from two sources, internally, i.e. how you run your company and manage your current assets, and externally, via commercial lending facilities. We suppose that you could also sell assets to generate cash, but that’s not really why businesses go into business, right?!

Your company balance sheet changes everyday, At the same time though its important to regularly take a look at that balance sheet as a measurement of your ability to run your company . Simply speaking it’s a way of both you as owner or manager, or any of your lenders for example, to determine if you're solvent and able to meet your commitments.

Borrowing properly and putting cash flow to good use is of course your goal for a successful business operation it’s about borrowing the right way, from the right parties, in a manner that ensures you are not in a liquidity trap that so many business owners and financial managers find themselves in.

One key way you can borrow successfully is to match short term debt with the right assets. A great example of this is a business line of credit or receivable finance and inventory finance facility. In this manner you're taking current assets and ensuring they are supported with a solid short term debt solution. When it comes to financing long term assets you should not be doing that by collateralizing your current assets. It's all about the matching!

Let's use a quick example of where things can go wrong... it comes back to that ' business is great' but why do we feel like we're going under' feeling! Let's say a company had a significant receivable base and put in a business line of credit facility. A need perhaps develops for some new assets to support the growth of the business so part of the line of credit funds are used to finance equipment assets.

Where things go awry is when sales go down or flat , funds are used to reduce payables or temporary operating losses, and the company finds themselves ' over advanced ' . This is right about the time when creditors get worried, both suppliers and your lenders. Bottom line, it’s a perfect storm of cash flow ugliness.

To avoid that ' broke feeling' it’s a question of matching debt properly and using cash flow via solutions such as leasing or term loans for asset acquisition.

Numerous short and long term solutions are available to the Canadian business owner when it comes to business cash flow solutions. Short term liquidity comes from bank lines; receivable financing facilities asset based lending lines of credit, and monetization of tax credits.

Speak to at trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you in being successful... not ‘going broke’!




7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL

CANADIAN BUSINESS CASH FLOW FINANCING EXPERTISE





Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial –
http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com
Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing.
Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/business_cash_flow_working_capital_canadian.html




Sunday, March 11, 2012

Does Your Canadian Company Have A Serious Asset Finance Loan Or Leasing Strategy ? You Need One!




Canadian Lease and Loan Options For Equipment Make Sense!


Information on the importance of an asset finance and leasing strategy for Canadian business . Considerations for equipment loans and leases in Canada




An Asset Finance Leasing and Loan Strategy ? Most Canadian business owners and financial managers realize they can either purchase fixed assets out of equity, or finance those same assets on a long term lease.


Business owners need to focus heavily on the use of the asset. Any company that acquires assets has either a long term view of the asset or a short term view. Lease financing is an excellent method of financing long term assets.

From the company perspective a long term lease on the asset - typically 3-5 years, and sometimes longer, is simply a method of purchasing the equipment via a ' loan '. The company simply decides on which asset or assets they wish to acquire, and then negotiates a price with the vendor or manufacturer. Typically the company is either dealing with the vendor/mfr. or the captive finance firm related to that manufacturer.

Business owners are barraged with claims that ' leasing provides 100% financing ' or that it ' conserves capital '. More sophisticated business owners and financial executives know that long term leasing is in fact a solid mechanism for tax avoidance. Some people maintain that if corporate taxes disappeared long term leasing would disappear!
When a firm arranges leasing it of course uses the equipment, and makes fixed payments on that equipment. Business owners focus more often than not on ' using equipment ', not owning equipment. The user can though structure leases allowing them to purchase the equipment at end of term.

If a customer does not wish to acquire assets over a long length of time, and if those assets have a shorter useful economic life than a firm should consider an ' operating lease '. The company has the right to cancel the lease at the end of term, return the asset, etc. In long term asset financing the transaction cannot be cancelled.

If a firm utilized a purchase strategy for long term assets then the funds for those purchases come from equity shareholders. The company uses the asset, and it owns the asset. Many customers have a philosophy of ' pride of ownership ' and have long term histories of acquiring assets under a purchase strategy. If the company is properly funded this is of course an entirely viable option.

We would point out further that if the financial markets were ' perfect ' ( they are not!) the advantages of leasing would diminish. In that case the company would not have to consider legal costs, brokerage costs, and other miscellaneous fees. Leasing matters because there are no perfect markets - advantages gained by the lessee are at the expense of the lessor, and each company has a unique credit and risk profile.

In summary, each company has a unique financial structure and acquisition philosophy around financing and asset acquisition. Owners and managers must consider the optimal financing strategy for long term assets that best suits overall corporate needs.

Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor on your asset finance and lease strategy .




Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial -

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :


http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/asset_finance_leasing_loan_canadian.html






Sunday, January 22, 2012

Why The SBL Government Business Loan Bridges The Gap Between Banking And Canadian Business Financing You Need Today





SBL Loans Fill The Gap In SME Finance In Canada

Information on the Canadian government business loan . How SBL financing provides an intermediate finance solution for start ups and small to medium sized businesses with revenues or projections under 5 Million dollars



We're talking about the gap today. It's the gap that is the bridge between a Canadian government business loan and the traditional banking term loan. So how does SBL financing help you or your firm bridge that gap. Let’s examine.


So what's the ' scoop ' on SBL loans? They are term loans from your bank with Industry Canada, i.e. the federal government guaranteeing 90% of the loan.

So what's the goodness in all of that. Simply that it is a great financing vehicle for start ups, small, and medium sized businesses who are looking for loans they will repay from future cash flow that they might otherwise not be able to obtain from the traditional Canadian chartered banking system. Additionally they might not have the collateral to collateralize the loan in a manner that most banks require.

It's prudent at this time to recap what mainstream chartered banks in Canada require for this same type of financing. Typically a company such as your will be required to have substantial equity in your company or the transaction in question.

Banks in Canada are very focused on what commercial lenders call the 3 C’s of lending. Those 3 C's are the banks interpretation of your character, your company's capacity to borrow ( i.e. repay!), and the quality of collateral you can offer up, The bottom line all that then ... the bank must feel comfortable with your business - its sales, cash flows, and any external issues relating to the current economy, your particular industry, etc.

So that brings us back to ' the great divide '. It’s the gap that the government business loan delivers on Canadian business financing for those firms that can't meet the requirements of Canadian business banking in the traditional manner we think of.

Don't forget also that bank loans come with commitment fees, prepayment penalties, covenants, and extreme default measures when things go awry.

So we have come full circle to a proposed solid alternative, SBL financing, that’s 'SBL ' as being the acronym for what most people call the ' government business loan '.

How does it fill the gap then? It sure is obvious to us. It allows you to repay a loan out of projected cash flow when historical cash flows are insufficient or simply not available. That's because thousands (yes thousands) of firms that utilize the program are in fact start ups, pre-revenue firms that are looking to build and grow a business.

In many cases the assets of the business otherwise would not allow you to complete a financing.

Is there enough money go around in the program? That’s a typical client question. The answer is a resounding yes! In 2010 alone over 7000 businesses borrowed billions under the program. And yes, that's billions with a ' B'.

Uses of the program are equipment financing, leasehold financing, computer and software financing, and even real estate.

The cost of the program is very appealing to business owners in Canada. Rates are competitive, there is no prepayment penalty, and even the owner’s personal guarantee is limited to 25% of the loan. Try and get that deal under more traditional financing - we bet you will find it difficult!

Is it challenging to acquire such a loan? Not if you understand the requirements and create a streamlined process and follow documentation and application details properly and efficiently.

Speak to a trusted credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor today on Canadian SBL financing. Bridge the gap!





Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial –


http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing.
Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/government_business_loan_canadian_financing_sbl.html

Friday, January 20, 2012

7 Guaranteed Ways To Fail In Canadian Franchise Loans. Franchisee Financing Done Right !






Use This Information On How Not To Fail When You’re Purchasing A Franchise In Canada !

Information on Canadian franchise loans. How does franchisee financing work in Canada and how can entrepreneurs avoid failure and guarantee success.



It's a given fact that some franchises fail. We all know that. We love providing guarantees to clients. But are there some guaranteed ways to fail. Nothing like a guarantee, right?

We're hoping that entrepreneurs considering franchise loans for franchisee financing in the Canadian marketplace take some of our advice, and by the way, that's on how NOT to fail!

Guaranteed failure point # 1 - Expect your franchise to either help or provide you with financing in Canada. That is a sure fire method of failure. While many franchisors have some relationships with certain organizations or financial institutions never forget that they are in fact in the business of selling franchises, not financing them. We will concede thought that lately we have heard rumblings of U.SS franchisors who are getting more involved in providing assistance and franchise loans for some of their units but we certainly haven’t seen any serious evidence of that in Canada.

So if you cant rely on your franchisor to provide you with financing assistance ensure that you have access to experience and relationships that can in fact assist your with completing your finance plan around your purchase. And while your franchisor may ' point ' you to some financing that may assist you it's safe to assume there are no guarantees.

Guaranteed failure point # 2- Don't explore your options. Another great way to fail... not recommended though! While the options to finance your franchise in the Canadian marketplace are certainly not abundant they do in fact exist if you are armed with the right knowledge and contacts. Never ever assume that you have to finance your purchase through your own bank, in fact some banks publicly or privately stay away from certain industries, and hospitality is an example. And that’s not good news for the thousands of entrepreneurs that want a part of this industry! So, take the proverbial advice of ' shopping around' for either a franchise financing expert or an institution that understands and is committed to your success.

Guaranteed failure point # 3- Borrow more than you can afford for your franchise. Another great way to ensure non success! Remember of course that the people providing franchise financing actually expect to be paid, in full! Larger loans translate into larger payments and cash flow concerns, so ensure that your financing has a proper mix of debt and your own equity. Remember that the optimal financing allows your business to succeed, grow, and pay you salary while building owner equity.
Guaranteed failure point # 4- Pick any franchisor... after all they are all proven business models, right? Well, not really. There is downside to any business, and certain industries and markets fall in and out of favor over time. So carefully assess your opportunity from both of course the financial perspective, as well as the overall market perspective. Your franchisor can be a Canadian organization, or a licensee of a U.S. company. Use the franchising disclosure laws in Canada to properly do your due diligence.

Guaranteed failure point #5 - Skimp on your financing. Borrow less, so you won't have to repay as much... right. Wrong! Don't cut corners when it comes to franchise loans and franchisee financing for your Canadian business. Understand your costs, and remember that you need to focus on two areas, purchasing your business, and then growing it. A proper combination of long term debt and working capital is needed. Don't let the excitement of owning your own business cloud the financial realities of what it takes to be successful in any business, franchising included.

Guaranteed failure point # 6- Assume sales are profits. Guess what? They are not. Build a proper business plan and ensure you have a solid handle on cash flow. An experienced Canadian business franchising advisor can help you here.

Guaranteed failure point # 7- Assume you know how to finance a franchise, or that it is easy. It's not necessarily the case. Understand your financing options, which in Canada exist, but are somewhat limited. Negotiate a fair price for your chosen business. Terms and rates in franchise financing vary, whether you are using 3rd party independent financing or the BIL franchise loan. As stated previously, borrow the right amount you need, whether you are purchasing a new unit or buying an existing franchisee out.

So there you have it. 7 guaranteed, yes guaranteed ways to fail at franchise financing. And by the way, we want you to succeed! , not fail, so speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can help you with franchise loans and franchisee financing in the Canadian market space.







Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial –

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing.
Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :


http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/franchise_loans_franchisee_financing_canadian.html

Friday, November 25, 2011

How To Increase Chance Of Loan Approval For Canadian Government Business Loans – SBL Loan Advice




Something Worth Considering ! Government Business Loans


Information on Canadian government business loans . How entrepreneurs, business owners and financial managers can increase chances of loan approval for the Small Business SBL Loan .



Odds. We can't speak for you but we like them when they are stacked in our favor! So is there a way to increase your chances of loan approval for the SBL Loan... Canadian government business loans? We know there is! and we’re going to show you how.

Some folks might consider us biased, but we think it's very obvious that the Canadian BIL/CSBF program is, bar none, one of the best programs in Canada for small business, and that’s including start ups by the way. First of all, its about those great rates, terms and structures, as well as limited personal liability, but primarily because with a basic understanding of key program requirements you can find yourself ' APPROVED ‘ ( that’s one of our favorite words by the way) in a matter of days .

So what’s all this about stacking the odds in your favor? Most Canadian business owners and financial managers we meet, including those entrepreneurs starting a business have in some cases not heard of the program. However, more importantly those that have view the words such as ' government' ' bank’ with a bit of trepidation, sometimes based on real world experience.

The reality is that if you understand the key requirements of the program you are in a position to better address those issues, in effect ' finesse' them and tilt the odds of approval in your favor. Doesnt it make sense that if you understand the requirements, and present them in a professional manner you would be in a position to garner a full approval for your financing?

We feel sorry for the business owners and entrepreneur, including franchisees that show up at our door with tales of being declined or having spent too much time facilitating their SBL Loan financing. And suffice to say we even know their story before they tell it to us... simply that they failed to provide the right documentation in a coherenet understandable manner.It's a simple case of positoning yourself, your business, and your business financial future . That is often done by a strong business plan or executive summary.

Having to continually go back and address the providers of government business loans with additional information can of course create a negative spin on your financing request. That's not good.

In Canada the SBL Loan program is run by INDUSTRY CANADA. That’s the federal government by the way! We are sure they are nice people, but guess what? The bottom line is that you will never meet them as the Canadian government business loans are administered by your local bank.

The odds of increasing your chances of loan approval for an SBL loan improve directly in relation to the knowledge and quality of your banker. We're sorry to say that many bankers often exhibit signs of not being knowledgeable about the program or even supportive of the general spirit of the program. And by the way, that spirit is just one thing - providing your new or existing business with up to 350k in financing for equipment, leaseholds, software, real estate, etc on terms you would never normally achieve under normal business financing. Enough said.

If you want the complete attention of your banker have a solid package. There are only 4 or 5 things required in that package, so it’s hardly rocket science.

Want even better odds? Speak to a trusted, credible an experienced Canadian busines financing advisor who can fast track you to SBL loan success.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR - STAN PROKOP

FOUNDER - 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL

CANADIAN BUSINESS FINANCING !

We finance the little guy .. P.S. We finance the big guys also!


http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/government_business_loans_sbl_loan_canadian.html

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Not All Canadian Small Business Financing Is Difficult - Check out the SBL Canada Government Loan Program For Financing Needs




The SBL Loan - A Low Risk/ High Reward Approach To Canadian Business Financing

Information on the Canada government SBL loan . Small Business financing for Canadian firms from start up to established companies with revenues less than 5 Million dollars.




For start up and small business in Canada (In our case today we mean sales under 5 Million dollars) there is one very obvious option to some of the most basic financing challenges, and its the Small Business ' SBL’ Canada government loan .

So what are some of those financing needs we referred to? Clients look to the program for purchasing a business, including franchises by the way, or simply the basic equipment and leasehold needs when they are constructing a building of office. We point out that almost all other types of financing in Canada often, if not always, discourage the financing of leaseholds so the ' SBL ' covers that problem off quite nicely.

A lot of business wants to stay on top (and boy is it hard) of technology, so the Canada Small Business Loan is a perfect way to acquire and finance both technology hardware and software.

And may we again note that it is often a challenge for firms to finance software, which is an intangible, so, you guessed it, the Canada government small business loan again steps up to the plate to take care of that challenge. The software that is financed under the program must be ' application' software. Firms that develop their software and who are looking for financing assistance should consider filing a SR&ED claim to recoup a lot of those funds spent in this area. (By the way, the SRED claim is a non repayable grant, so other then the taxation aspect it’s the closest to free money we can think of!)

But we digress! so lets get back to how some of this financing is done. While clients are often aware that there are thousands of firms who receive Billions of dollars under the program what they are more concerned about are how this financing work does and what timeline is involved.

Let’s examine a couple key aspects of some of those basic financing needs. We'll cover off some info about assets first. In the case of either purchasing an existing business or buying a used piece of equipment the SBL Canada government Small Business Loan requires a proper value of the asset. That is very easily covered off by obtaining an appraisal which comes at a relatively low cost. That appraisal becomes the financing value under the SBL small business loan. Mission accomplished!

By the way, when it comes down to actual numbers the Canada government loan program finances 90% of all eligible assets and leaseholds. The additional ten per cent is in effect your down payment or owner equity into the transaction.

Clients often are under the misapprehension that the program is difficult from a paperwork and timeline point of view. We take exception strongly to that because either on your own or with an SBL expert you can easily put together a basic documentation and business plan that meets all the criteria of the program. The reality is that this can all be done and submitted for approval in a manner of days. This is where working with an expert pays off because they are familiar with the small handful of technical aspects of making the application look good - which include a business plan and cash flow and ensuring certain cash flow and liquidity ratios work. It's not as hard as you think.

So, is the SBL loan program difficult? It certainly is if you have no idea what you are doing and don't know what can be financed or how to prepare a basic proposal. Consider perhaps utilizing the services of a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you to take the word ' difficult' out of the equation, and replace it with that other word... Easy!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR: STAN PROKOP
FOUNDER OF 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL

CANADIAN BUSINESS FINANCING

WE FINANCE THE LITTLE GUY .. P.S. WE FINANCE THE BIG GUYS TOO!



http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/sbl_canada_government_loan_small_business_canadian.html

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Where Will You End Up Without Canadian Film / Movie Tax Credits & Financing?


‘The Movie and Film Business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side."

The above quote has been attributed to quite famous U.S. journalist Hunter Thomson... it's in dispute apparently whether he made these comments on the music industry or film. Quite frankly though, we have made our point.

We recently saw a movie called "Made in Romania starring Jennifer Tilley ". The film has classic elements of a film tax credit scam gone awry in the worst way, from co production to poor planning, etc.

So that’s our trivia for today, what we really wanted to address was that Canadian Film and Movie tax credits, and their unique financeable features can save you from ending up somewhere along the lines of our analogies above .

Canada has made it very clear that it supports the film, TV, and emerging and fast growing digital animation industry by providing a solid finance tax credit mechanism that works. And you're already familiar with the strength and reputation of Canada’s government and banking policies, which are world renowned.

If you have a Canadian controlled private company (most producers of course set up a special purpose legal entity for each of their productions) you are eligible for tax credits, and have the further ability to monetize those tax credits for cash flow and working capital purposes. We would point out that it also includes co productions and various treaty arrangements throughout the world. (We’ll have to check if that includes Romania!)

So what do these film and movie tax credits include. Essentially when we're talking film and Television were referencing labour expenses ,production costs, and some really unique what we will call ' regional ' credits , which might actually drive where you choose to shoot principal photography, scene locations, etc .

Let’s provide a quick example, because we receive many calls from U.S. producers always quizzing us on some of the nuances of the system.
Let us assume you have chosen British Columbia as a location. The majority of the industry is driven to Vancouver of course, a major metro centre. But by filming outside Vancouver and additional 6% of tax credit becomes available. We suspect it’s because of the ability of your production to drive employment and spending in non city areas... but who are we to judge? Ours it to utilize!

The reality is that this is Canadian financing of utilization of tax credits requires some expert help, so your ability to align yourself with a Canadian film tax credit financing expert is valuable from a viewpoint of maximizing your claim .

How the tides have turned, because the majority of interactive media and film and TV principals in the industry are currently quite bullish according to polls conducted by one of the major accounting firms that specializes in this area. The ability to reach your audience through a variety of media increases everyday.



Financing of your claims can be a tremendous boost to your overall production budget from a cash flow perspective. You can finance your claims on completion, or utilize accrual type financing, providing cash flow during your spend.

Want to avoid a huge part of film, TV, and digital media budget financing stress. Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian film tax credit financing advisor. Maximize your credits, and by the way, here’s one more great quote about your industry. Let Canadian film and movie tax credits get you to the final destination -->



“Shooting a film is like taking a stagecoach ride in the old west. At first, you look forward to a nice trip. Later, you just hope to reach your destination.”
- Francois Truffaut



Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial -

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/film_movie_tax_credits_financing_canadian.html

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Power Your Business Financing with Canadian ABL Services – Why Asset Based Lending Works


It's always about the bank. Well ... not always... It seems that Canadian business financing continues to evolve and Canadian ABL services via asset based financing credit facilities are slowly getting to the top of the popularity pile.

Why does this type of financing work well and why is it becoming the accepted alternative to traditional Canadian chartered bank financing? We think we know why.

Although it might seem that the Canadian business and economic environment changes quickly these days we maintain that for the last two or 3 years the one thing that hasn’t changed is the ability for Canadian business owners and financial managers to get ' traditional ' financing from those great folks at the bank.

Skepticism and bank regulations in Canada seem to eliminate more and more qualified business borrower’s everyday. So it’s a struggle and if you are a small or medium sized firm in Canada the ability to grow or change your business is difficult.

Enter ABL lending in the Canadian marketplace. This type (we call it non-bank) of revolving credit facility is the new ' band aid ' for almost any size business, filling the void between traditional financing.

So why an asset is based lending facility able to work for your firm when a bank facility might not even is attainable. We guess it’s about risk and reward, in that for the same or higher cost almost any decent sized business has the ability to qualify for ABL services and financing.

The other side of the coin is also that the whole approval process is often quicker, in that there is only one key agenda item to review - your assets. Typically these assets are receivables; inventory and equipment, with real estate a borrowing possibility also, included right in your asset based lending facility.

We speak of the ' power ' of ABL. The true power lies simply in the fact that the assets we mentioned that are used as collateral are margined significantly higher than in the manner that a bank would margin those same assets. So it isn’t your financial statements strength that has the power - it’s those ' assets ' within the financials!

The broad appeal of asset based lending also lies in the fact that it’s flexible, that the other side of our ABL power equation. Your firm doesn’t necessarily have to be profitable (it helps ... but not required) and even if you face current financial challenges and setbacks you are still eligible. Even special loans clients can use ABL to escape from the restrictive claws of a special loans environment.

So whats our bottom line - it simply that if the Canadian banking environment continues to be unable to serve the demands of fast growing or challenged business... well... ABL financing services will step in and nicely fill that gap.

Ultimately it still might be your business goal to obtain a ' traditional ' facility. That’s ok of course. In the meantime thought consider the true power of asset based lines of credit as a funding option that will meet all your financing needs... today! Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor to eliminate that uphill financing battle you've been facing.



Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial -

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

http://www.parkavenuefinancial.com/abl_lending_financing_canadian_services_asset.html

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Why Is The Canada Government SBL Loan For Small Business A Canadian Success Story


Wow! A ' favorable termination of attempts ‘. Could there be a more perfect dictionary definition of the government of Canada SBL loan for small business. We don't think so. Why?

First of all we meet clients all day every day that aren’t even aware of one of the most powerful programs in Canadian business financing in Canada. And in a time when programs of all types are under attack... guess what, this program got even better. Can you believe it? We couldn’t.

We're talking about BIL /CSBF. What the heck is that??? .. we can already hear you saying . It seems like government and business always have acronyms that confuse the little guy. The BIL/ CSBF program is simply the government small business financing program sponsored by Industry Canada.

Again, we’re astounded by the fact that thousands of small, and new (yes even start ups, franchises, etc) are eligible for the program and not even taking advantage of it.

So let’s get you up to speed. Quickly. The Canada Small business financing program , also called by us ordinary guys ' the SBL ' (small business loan) is simply the official government program to encourage financing of small and medium sized businesses in the Canadian business financing arena.

Who is eligible? It’s pretty simple. Any business with either real revenues, or sales, or forecasted sales less than 5 Million dollars. When you're starting out we can assure you it will take a little while to get to 5M in revenue, so that’s why again we're amazed at who doesn’t take advantage of the program .

Ok, we're interested, we can hear you say. Whats the bare bones explanation of the program. Ready - here it goes. It's a loan for a maximum of 350,000.00 for the purchase of equpment, leasehold improvements, software, or real estate. Is it just us, but doesn’t things like equipment and improvements to your business cover a lot of your financing needs? When the loan is for real estate only, guess what... you can borrow up to $ 500,000.

Qualifications? You want to know them, we've got them. To qualify you need to have a business plan, demonstrate the need for financing via a quote of vendor invoice, and you must have a 10% investment into the amount of financing you need. For example, you want to buy a franchise business in the Canadian business marketplace. The franchise costs 350,000.00$. You put in 10%, and our SBL loan program covers the balance.

Do you have to drive to Ottawa to get the loan? We're kidding of course - the good news is that the government of Canada sponsors the loan and assumes the majority of ' risk ' but the actual government of Canada small business loan program is administered by your bank.

We don’t want to get too personal here, because we love our Canadian banks, but it's sometimes a challenge finding everyone who knows about this program and can get you funded quickly. But guess what? Last year 7,441 of your competitors and business friends took advantage of the program, for a total of 957 Million dollars! And you hadn't even heard of the program?!

Want to know more ?Business financing success is all about experience, trust and credibility, seek out a Canadian business financing advisor who can fast track you to business financing success using this great Canadian financing tool to grow or start your business .

P.S. And you wont believe the great rates, terms and structures of the SBL loan also! Trust us on that.



Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial -

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 50 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/sbl_loan_government_for_business_canada_canadian.html


Monday, February 14, 2011

Why Canadian Companies Use Factoring Receivables Solutions for Business Financing


Knowing you are making the right choice in factoring receivables for your Canadian business is half the battle. You then have to pick the best firm to facilitate your transaction, and like most business owners you want to know you have made the right decision.

Let's recap why A/R financing works, and more importantly, how to select the best companies to work with based on your own needs.

There are numerous reasons why you might want to use a factoring receivables strategy to finance your business. The best reason you can have is that you are growing! And growing quickly - Because in that situation you are unable to achieve the sort of traditional financing you need to run and finance your business on a daily basis. Simply speaking working capital and cash flow become your overwhelming priority on a day to day basis, and that shouldn’t be the case!

So, yes... you have identified invoice factoring and financing as your solution - but more importantly you also want to know how it works and how it will both affect and benefit your business on a day to day basis. The reality is that if are a small and medium sized business owner in Canada you are probably relying heavily on what the finance folks call a ' self financing' strategy. That simply means that you are only using your existing cash flow to finance your growth and profits - you are not in a position to, or don’t want to... take on more debt for your company.

Enter at stage left receivables financing companies! They purchase your a/r a daily, weekly, monthly ( its your choice!) basis and provide you with same day cash flow as soon as you have generated a valid sale and invoice .

And why does this strategy appeal to Canadian business owners? Simply because you are not creating debt on your balance sheet, and the personal guarantee situation is all but eliminated and you have the ability, ( if you choose the right partner firm ) to exit this financing at any time .

So, it all seems like a perfect world right? in effect the perfect business financing situation . Well in business it doesn’t work that way, there are pitfalls and mistakes you need to avoid when utilizing a factoring receivables strategy.

So what are those mistakes you should not make? Partnering... you need a firm that meets your needs, both geographcially, with competitive rates, and the ability to transact with you on a daily basis. We strong recommend what we call a C I D solution, which is the acronym for Confidential Invoice Discounting. This allows you to bill and collect your own receivables, finance them when you want, and receive the same rates as your competitors who aren’t using this C I D strategy. In their case their customers are contacted for payment by the factor firm, and this is unappealing to many Canadian businesses.

Whether we like it or not our clients always focus on rate when talking about a move to companies that will finance their receivables. Factoring rates are perceived as more expensive but in many cases when you factor in use of funds, ability to grow your business, etc the decision is not as difficult as you might think.

Speak to a trusted , credible, and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who is an expert in factoring pricing, picking the best solution for your firm, and negotiating pricing and fees and advances that work best for your future growth and profits .

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Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial -
http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 7 years - has completed in excess of 50 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com/factoring_receivables_financing_companies_canadian.html