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.



Saturday, January 22, 2011

Effective Sred Tax Credit Financing – Using A SR ED Loan For The Right Reasons


Would your company like to make the most out of a good thing in business - Effective sred tax credit financing, we think you'll agree, does just that. Contemplating a sr Ed loan for the right reasons to us just makes solid business sense.

Lets cover off exactly what you need to know about maximizing your participation in whats known as the Canadian governments Scientific Research and Experimental Development offering - we in the layman’s world call it the SR ED , or SR&ED program . Leave it to the government to use that formal terminology!

Whether you have never heard of the program at all, or are a first time claimant for your share, or , if you are one of the lucky ones and have been filing for years for your share of the 3 Billion dollar pie you are clearly in line to hear some great news . What is that news? It's simply that for the right reasons your ability to cash flow, monetize, borrow against, factor, whatever you want to call it , your sred tax credit can be an effective way of increasing your working capital and cash flow .

Could it be any simpler? Your company is eligible for a refund on expenditures that have been verified under the program for R&D expenditures. Thousands, and we mean thousands of businesses, many of them your competitors, are receiving cheques from the government, that are non repayable for your investment in R&D processes, products and services.

If you are not missing out on filing your claims are you missing out on effective sred tax credit financing. You just might be. We strongly believe that utilizing a sr ed loan for the right reasons is a great way to stay one step ahead of the working capital game .

Let’s examine why effective sred tax credit financing via a sr Ed loan makes sense. Generally it only makes sense under one single condition - its that your firm needs cash flow and working capital for payables reduction, further investment, equipment, and general operating expenses .! We are quite sure you are already in that group!

Monetizing your sred tax credit is simply borrowing against a rebate that is coming to you from the federal and provincial government via your sred claim. Is there anyone in the room that disputes funds today are better than funds tomorrow? We don’t believe you will argue with us on that.

If you are part of the program, or considering the sr&Ed program from a participation point of view you should consider financing your claim after it’s completed. In actuality you can finance it immediately after it’s filed, or in many cases, as you are expending funds!

SR&ED financing is simply the monetizing of that account receivable (that’s really what your sred claim has now become) to use the cash for any worthwhile corporate purpose. A sr ed loan for the right reasons allows you to increase cash flow , and simply stay more competitive - which you probably already are given you are investing in r&d type work .

Effective sred tax credit financing works best when its done quickly and efficiently at competitive rates - no payments are made by your firm and the proceeds of your sr ed loan are netted against the final cheque your firm is due .

Want to wait 3, 6, or 12 months for your sr&Ed cheque. By all means do - but remember your competitor got their cheque today by effective use of a sr&Ed tax credit finance strategy. That’s something to think about.

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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/sred_tax_credit_financing_sr_ed_loan.html

Friday, January 21, 2011

Financing a franchise business? What you need to know to obtain finance for a franchise




Can too much expert knowledge in financing a franchise business ever be a bad thing? We certainly don’t think so and we'll show you how to obtain finance for a franchise business that you have chosen to purchase.

When talking to clients about franchise finance in Canada we generally talk about the Boy Scout motto. You will recall that their motto is ' BE PREPARED ' and that’s the total strategy around financing a franchise successful that you must adopt.

Getting the money to purchase your franchise of often the biggest worry of new entrepreneurs such as yourself. People search out franchising opportunities because they are essentially looking for a combination of opportunity and wealth - there is usually only one major obstacle to that road to success, it’s the funding for the acquisition of the franchise business.

If we had to summarize in a very simple and basic what you need to be successful in franchise financing we would boil it down to a few key issues. Want to know what they are? From our perspective it all comes down to a reasonable history of business or management experience , a decent personal financial profile - more about that one later, and access to the ' inside secret ' of franchise financing in Canada, which, you may be surprise to know, is the government of Canada !

Let’s circle back on those points - and as always it comes down and back to our Boy Scout motto - be prepared. We can see our client’s eyes rolling back now when we tell them we need a crisp business plan . That’s a key requirement of your ability to obtain finance for a franchise, simply because it’s the ' proof’, if you will, of your ability to understand and run your business properly. In that document you have info about yourself, the business you are purchasing, the industry you are in, and the financial performance you expect to achieve in your new role as business owner and entrepreneur.

From a lenders perspective financing a franchise business is all about one thing - getting paid back for the loan. So the lender will look at how you have structured the financial portion of your business plan to reflect ability to repay your franchise loan, as well as how much cash flow and working capital is left to pay yourself a salary and run your new business. Could anything make more sense than a properly crafted and positioned business plan - we don’t think so.

Your money - you have it, you want to keep it - don’t we all. However, whether it’s a franchise business or any business for that matter OPM never works - OPM is ' other people’s money' and you can't rely on 100% of outside financing to obtain finance for a franchise in Canada. So be prepared to invest anywhere from 25-50% of the purchase price into your acquisition. Coupled with that and this is critical, you must be able to demonstrate that you have run your personal and business affairs respectably from a credit perspective. Obtaining a copy of your credit report, in advance, by you, is strongly recommended.

And, oh yes, what about that Government Issue we mentioned. That’s one of the great secrets and tips we promised to reveal. Did you know that probably 90% or more of financing a franchise business in Canada revolves around a special loan program called the CSBF/BIL loan? It’s a federal program, and administered by financial institutions. Whats so great about it - limited personal guarantees, great rates, terms and structures.

Speak to an expert in franchise financing when you are looking to obtain finance for a franchise - seek out someone who is trusted, credible and experienced. Be prepared, and get ready to be successful.

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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/financing_franchise_business_finance_for_franchise.html

Thursday, January 20, 2011

What’s the State Of Asset Finance Solutions in Canada and What Asset Based Lending Rates Make Sense For My Firm ?


There must be a reason why asset finance solutions are becoming one of the most popular solutions to business financing in Canada. Let’s look at asset based lending rates in Canada and the types of solutions that might be available for your firm.

Because of the broadly interpreted nature of the term asset finance solutions lets be really clear on what we are talking about here. Asset based lines of credit is really the essence of our topic and discussion. Simply speaking it’s the financing that your firm secures, on a revolving of operating basis, and it’s collateralized by receivables and inventory.

But wait, we should also add that in many cases your firm’s equipment and unencumbered fixed assets are also eligible for operating financing. Most business owners realize that Canadian chartered banks generally do not allow you to monetize or borrow daily against equipment and fixed assets such as real estate. Asset finance, i.e. our asset based line of credit does just that? That is one of the reasons why it is significantly different.

So we have made the statement that asset finance solutions are becoming more and more popular everyday - why is this so? Think alternative, think liquidity, think ' less rules '. That’s what an asst based line of credit is all about. We tell our clients we haven’t seen one case where a customer’s asset based line of credit didn’t improve significantly from a viewpoint of borrowing power, with fewer rules.

What are those ' rules' we are referring to? Let's put it this way, you couldn’t measure our respect for the Canadian banking system in Canada - it’s immense. But the reality is that typically small and medium sized businesses in Canada - ( lets define that as , say anything from between 1 -30 Million in revenue ) are challenged when in comes to operating lines of credit .

Asset finance solutions via an ABL facility (ABL = asset based line of credit) remove a huge part of that challenge. They monetize assets, allowing you to borrow against them on a daily basis. Very little if any emphasis is placed on balance sheet ratios, profitability (it helps and is nice to be profitable though!) personal guarantees, or outside collateral.

Are asset based lending rates different from bank credit facilities? In some cases they actually are the same of better from a viewpoint of a pure rate discussion, where they differ is that if you firms facility size is under the 3 Million dollar range from a viewpoint of A/R and inventory balances. At this point you can expect to pay a significant premium compared to a bank line of credit.

Is the ' premium’ on asset based lending rates worth it to your firm? It absolutely isn’t worth it, IF... and thats a big IF... you don’t place value on increased borrowing power, the ability to borrow against your assets as you grow, as well as the increased flexibility around the terms and conditions of you facility . That’s a big IF..! and we think clients get our point when we say that any premium you might pay is easily justified .

Asset based lending rates have some other considerations also, but frankly they don’t differ all that much from any business financing facility - so you might be expected, depending on who you are dealing with , to pay an origination fee, a termination fee, and standard legal expenses to set up an securitize the facility .

Are asset based lines of credit becoming more popular in Canada - absolutely! Will they cost you more - maybe and maybe not - depending on the overall size and quality of the facility you require. Are the advantages of increased liquidity important for you - that’s for you to decide! Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor to learn more about asset finance solutions in Canada.
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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.parkavenuefinancial.com/asset_based_lending_rates_asset_finance_solutions.html

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

What will cash flow financing cost your firm and what working capital cash facilities make sense?


Cash flow financing is typically what makes or breaks your company as your firm grows or struggles to overcome temporary challenges. Working capital cash finance is a top priority for small and medium sized business in Canada.
We hate taking the easy way out for an answer to those concerns, so we'll attempt to provide some real world immediate solutions for that working capital challenge that is always top of mind.

We haven’t found anyone who does not disagree that working capital management tends to be the single most important measurement for your firm on a daily and ongoing basis - its always comes back to that ' cash flow is king' fellow!

If your liquidity is limited you need to recognize that. Your accountant, with all due respect will easily and quickly calculate your working capital and potentially advise you that you're in a great position. He or she does that by going to your balance sheet and subtracting current liabilities from current assets. Let’s say he or she came back and gave you the great news - that you have 4 dollars of current assets for every one dollar of payables. Sounds great so far, right?

Wrong, because you might find that your actual cash on hand is only .30 cents for every dollar of payables due, and all your money is tied up in - you guessed it, receivables and inventory that are slow paying and slow turning, respectively.
So the reality is you have great working capital only if you feel very comfortable that you can pay bills, loans, leases, employees, etc!! .. as they come due . We don’t meet a lot of business owners in the small and medium size business category that have that level of comfort.

So, why do you have a cash flow financing need, and what is the cost of a working capital cash facility that makes sense.
Sitting down with clients and talking about their cash flow needs often revolves around the same key issues they are going through : temporary financial losses, lack of long term financing ( i.e. buying or leasing non current assets without good long term debt solutions ) , and , you guessed it , your biggest problem - growth ! Dramatic increases in sales, as great as they sound, lead to cash flow financing needs.

An internal solution that will not cost you a lot and solve your working capital cash challenge is simply better turnover of receivables and inventory. That’s easy for us to say and difficult for you to achieve, right? So, how does Canadian business address that - it’s by monetizing receivables and inventory and in effect your future sales, via a cash flow financing facility.
If you firm is in a great industry, has clean balance sheets, and makes money your bank facility for a revolving line of credit will typically be in the 5-10% per annum range for cost of financing.

If your firm doesn’t qualify for bank financing should you abandon ship? Definitely not. Working capital financing via receivables financing and asset based lending can solve all your problems and in effect turn your firm into a cash flow machine.

That new found cash flow comes at a price, as rates can be in the 1% or 2% per month range, but you are actually paying that now by carrying A/R and inventory and losing out on the opportunity cost of turning capital into new sales and profits.
Speak to a trusted, credible and experience Canadian business financing advisor for your cash flow financing solution that makes optimal sense for your company.

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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/cash_flow_financing_working_capital_cash.html

The Advantage of Lease Financing When You Have the Right Equipment financing Company As A Partner

In your lease financing needs wouldn’t you like to have what they call the ' home team' advantage? Advantages in business are great, especially when your competitor is on the other side of that advantage! That's why we feel the right equpment financing company in effect becomes your home team advantage, as it becomes a partner and solution provider for your lease financing needs.

You probably have already decided why you are going to lease, rather than buy and purchase outright. We start telling clients about things like the tax advantages of equipment financing in Canada, depreciation strategies that follow tax benefits, their ability to manage obsolescence, adding in install and warranty and maintenance into the lease , etc,etc,etc ..... but do you know what ? All those benefits are great, but firms such as yours more often than not are mostly concerned about cash flow and the concern of drawing down on bank credit lines, etc for equipment that ultimately depreciates or has to be replaced.

So yes, you do need to know all those advantages, and focus on the ones that make the most sense for your company, so you can maximize them - but the bottom line is that lease financing is mostly regarded as a cash flow tool. The textbooks call it the most efficient use of your resources when you have limited capital - we simply call it a great way to conserve cash flow.

One of the advantages of lease financing is simply clearly that it covers you from low tech to hi tech. What do we mean by that, simply that all assets can be properly financed if you partner with the right equipment financing company. That goes from computers and technology that seems to depreciate one second after you purchase it, to your shop floor and office equpment that might give you useful economic benefits for years.

And hey, what about that other advantage - leasing to own, or leasing to use? Many clients aren’t aware they can structure whats known as an operating lease whereby they use the asset, minimize their cash flow outflows, and have maximum flexibility at the end of the lease financing transaction. What is that flexibility? They can utilize one of three options at the end of the term - they can buy the unit, return it, or upgrade/extend the transaction. Tell us that’s not flexibility?!

So we've laid out all those great advantages, but it is easy to find the right lease financing company. Clients are surprised to hear that there are hundreds of lease finance firms in Canada - some are huge, some are small, some are geographic, some don’t want your type of business, some are dying to find you and get your business and provide you with great rates, terms, and structures.

If you don’t have the time to approach a few hundred firms, meet them discuss your needs, and give them your financial statements is there a solution. There is. Speak to a Canadian business financing advisor who is trusted, credible and experienced in lease financing. Flexible Terms, documents and credit approval come quickly when you have the right equipment finance company as a partner.

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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/equipment_financing_company_lease_financing.html

Monday, January 17, 2011

How The Cost of Factoring Finance Makes Sense In Accounts Receivable Financing

Is it possible to overcome the working capital and cash flow challenge you face with a confidential accounts receive financing and factoring facility? And another thing what is the true cost of factoring finance.

Let's weigh in on those two issues and try and help you solve your Canadian business financing needs - our comments are mainly addressed to small and medium sized companies in Canada, but we can assure you the big boys come to talk to us about these problems also.

Problems we said... so what is that problem really. It’s simply that the ability to maintain ongoing liquidity continues to be the largest challenge in business today - simply put, the recession is over _ (the government sent us an email confirming that!) and your business is on track to grow again.

The ability to get proper business financing credit and the perceived cost of factoring finance is always a discussion point we have with clients. Working capital and cash flow are needed to keep up to your day to day operations, let alone grow your business in the manner that you want to.

We don’t want to be perceived as naysayer, so lets address our real subject here, which is accounts receivable financing, the cost of factoring financing ( that’s what it is commonly known as ) as well as the benefits of what we feel is the greatest secret in Canadian business today, a confidential invoice and receivable financing facility.

First of all, what is the facility, and is it somewhat non traditional or alternative in nature? A true accounts receivable financing strategy is actually quite simply - you enter into an arrangement to sell your sales as you generate them - receiving cash, the same day! That of course is better than waiting 1, 2, and yes dare we say 3 months to collect your A/R. That brings us nicely into the area of the cost of factoring finance - which in Canada ranges typically to 1.5-2% per month.

Isn’t that expensive, asks clients. We don’t think so, but you decide based on these facts. This charge, which is known in the industry as a discount fee, not an interest rate per se, can be significantly offset by your new ability to take supplier discounts in the same amount, as well as purchase more effectively. The positive intangible around this is that you will build better supplier relationships than your competitors probably have, simply because suppliers love being paid.

And don’t forget what we said early, which is that you , instead of waiting 60-90 days to get paid have cash flow to sell more and creates profits to offset this financing cost . So in summary the combo of increased cash flow to reduce payables, as well as your ability to in an unlimited based generate immediate cash flow for profits very clearly offset any perceived ' high financing costs '. (We have met customers who have negotiated 5% better pricing with their suppliers based on their new found ability to pay cash.

The best type of accounts receivable financing facility in Canada is what we call a confidential invoice discounting facility. You bill and collect your own invoices, unlike your competitors who use traditional factor financing. And factoring finance cost is the same!

Intrigued? Interested? Hopefully not confused! Investigate the benefits of accounts receivable factoring finance with the use of a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor. It’s a cash flow 101 great strategy.

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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/accounts_receivable_financing_cost_of_factoring.html

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Canadian Film Projects Utilize Ontario Film Tax Credit Financing For Success


Most Canadian film projects (we’re referring to television and animation also) utilize Ontario film tax credit financing to complete their projects from a financial perspective. The proper use of these credits can enhance your overall ROI - aka return on investment.

The challenge for producers and owners of projects in our 3 named entertainment genres above is often quite simply to understand what the credits are - much less utilize them effectively. We'll try and address both issues.

Although we feel that film tax credits in Canada couldn't be more straightforward, things often become complicated probably simply because they are only one piece of your ' master plan ‘.
Again , we maintain the Canada film tax credits are very generous and the process for receiving them and financing is well defined, but , in defense of our clients they can be forgiven because some of the perceived complexity revolves around which province their production is domiciled in and what specify tax credits apply .And in the case of where you have a choice of utilizing one tax credit or another the question then becomes : ' What tax credit financing strategy brings my project the maximum benefits ?'

Clients seeking tax Ontario film tax credit financing, for example must ensure they have the puzzle solved. What's that puzzle - it’s simply what combo of equity, debt, and mezzanine type financing will maximize the tax credit. We hope that as business people you want to make the maximum profit possible on your project and venture. If you're the owner you will make less if you have to give up equity.

That is why using your tax credit as collateral enhances your overall return on investment and profit potential.

We read a great definition of mezzanine film financing awhile back - simply put it described the financing as the money in the middle between expensive equity or giving up ownership, and that other rock and hard place - paying interest and taking on debt for your project .

Ontario (we use that as an example - so our friends in BC, QUEBEC and Maritimes shouldn’t be offended) film tax credit financing uses your tax credit as the collateral for a large piece of your financing.

We've anticipated your next question - how large is large?! Realistically you can expect to recoup anywhere from 30-45% of your projects total costs in the form of a non repayable tax credit. And, when you know you are eligible for that tax credit then consider financing it to reduce the amount of real cash flow you need for your project. You in effect borrow against the value of the tax credit.

The ' reward’, if we can put it that way, for financing that 30-45% of your project is simply an interest rate charged on the value of the total tax credit due your project . 99.9% of producers and owners set up a separate legal entity for each project for financial and reporting reasons.

Using a quick example, say you had an independent production with a modest budge of 1 million dollars. If you have arranged 50% of that via equity in your project you need the additional 50% of that financing. If you were able to sell the rights for the project for 20% then the remaining 30% of your financing can be locked up quite nicely via film tax credit financing .

We don’t envy you around the challenges of raising equity, debt and mezzanine gap type financing for your projects. But take solace that Canadian film, TV and animation projects can be easily augmented with a significant amount of financing with the proper use of film tax credits.

Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced film tax credit financing advisor on your eligibility and the ability to finance your credits. Cut! That's a wrap.

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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/ontario_film_tax_credit_financing_canadian_film.html


Financing sr ed tax credit claims – Why a SRED Bridge Loan Make Sense

Purchased your lottery ticket yet? It's a 3 Billion dollar prize. That’s the feeling our clients have when they have secured their ticket (which is their sr Ed tax credit claim) to the three billion dollars the Canadian government provides each year for the Canadian SR&ED program. And the reality is with a properly submitted claim your odds of winning are much better than those lotteries - they approximate a 100% chance! We haven’t had those odds in our favor in awhile!

Let’s talk about why a sr&Ed bridge loan might make sense for the monetizing of the R&D non repayable grants that the government provides to Canadian firms who submit a claim for the program. Financing a sr ed tax credit claim allows you to cash flow, or monetize , however you want to call it your portion of the largest tax incentive program in Canada .

We have always told clients that the sr&Ed bridge loan makes sense, in our opinion, because it in essence fills the gap between your ability to get approved for the funds and receive those funds.

You have already made your commitment to R&D via your ability to innovate - so why no supercharge that innovation and turn those funds into cash. Financing sr Ed tax credit claim strategies provide your firm with the capital you need to further innovate and of course run your business.

We know by experience with our clients that many of the firms who participate in Canada's Sred program are whats known as pre revenue firms to finance professionals - in other terminology you're a start up, or very close to it. Accessing capital is hard when you are a start up - your firm simply doesn’t have the sales, profits, and the corresponding balance sheet and income statements to support the borrowing of capital.

If you're an established business and you have accounts receivable they can be financed of course. Well, guess what, you do have an account receivable that can be financed, it’s simply that it is known by another name - it’s your sr&Ed claim! A SR&ED bridge loan becomes an external source of capital that you otherwise might not be access based on traditional borrowing requirements.

A great strategy is simply to take advantage of financing sr ed tax credit claim and invest those funds in marketing the viability of your innovation that you achieved via the sr ed process . That is when a sr&Ed bridge loan makes total sense.

Capital is critical to any firm, whether you are the start up we just talked about, or an established firm simply desiring to grow your competitive edge and finance your business on an ongoing basis. Banks, venture capitalists, and private equity investors, etc don’t really finance sred claims.

In order to facilitate the financing of your calim seek an independent finance firm that specializes in this area. A trusted , credible and experience Canadian business financing advisor can have a sr&ed bridge loan completed in a couple of weeks with your firms full co operation . A simple application, a copy of your sred filing, and the normal due diligence associated with any business financing can be completed very quickly and efficiently.

Does it make sense to finance your sr&Ed claim - we think we’ve shown it has. The sred financing closes the gap between your innovation and the continued commercialization of your products and services, providing you with capital to maintain your competitive edge.
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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.parkavenuefinancial.com/financing_sr_ed_tax_credit_claims_sred_bridge_loan.html

Friday, January 14, 2011

How Much Will A Business Franchise Loan Cost When Financing A Franchise In Canada ?

The cost of a business franchise loan is often the first questions clients ask when talk to us about financing a franchise in Canada.
5.5% is the answer. So that’s it – end of story – you have your answer! Of course we're being a bit facetious because what we are referring to is simply the current interest rate on the most popularly utilized loan vehicle for franchise financing in Canada. Cost is of course one thing, getting approved, executing on your franchise financing properly, and finally not entering into the wrong type of financing strategy is another issue altogether.

Let’s examine the challenge and the reality of franchise financing as it relates to costs, methodology, and, as we said, doing it right.

If you aren’t aware of the specialized methods of franchise financing in Canada and that most popular loan vehicle we discussed then you certainly are a poorly informed and at risk entrepreneur in the franchise environment . Simply walking into a bank and asking for a franchise loan in Canada does not work , as the bank views a new franchise, as it does any other business frankly, as totally based on the 100% collateral and credit worthiness of you the borrow .

If that’s the case then, our clients ask, why have they heard that thousands of franchisees in Canada get bank financing? Good question! It’s simply that the majority of financing in Canada is done under a specialize program called the CSBF /BIL program, which is under the auspices of the government and administered by the banks. That key word is administered by the banks.
So what is the cost of that loan? In terms of a pure what is the interest rate? Question the answer is 3 over prime rate, which currently in Canada would bring the transaction to the 5 1/2% range. (As prime changes this rate might fluctuate).

But if you as a franchisee are looking for a business franchise loan and financing a franchise properly the other features of this specialized loan are even more compelling - they include a limited owner guarantee, a loan size of up to 350,000.00, and other enhancements. That cost, when financing a franchise in Canada is clearly the best deal in town if you accept that a franchise is a new business - which of course it is, but we acknowledge the franchise is of course built on a successful business model of the franchisor.

Remember also that the cost when financing a franchise in Canada is based on the amount you borrow - unfortunately it cant be 100% because business finance dictates it is both prudent and required that you put some of your own equity in the deal - the more you have invested personally the less financing cost you have, that’s understood of course .

In the U.S. We are told there are specialized tax strategies to take money out of RRSP type accounts without being taxed, to finance your business - that really doesn’t work in Canada and your cost of a business franchise loan will go up considerably when you add in the tax penalty bite of collapsing your savings vehicle.

So. in summary financing a franchise in Canada is achievable - however its specialized, and some of the programs utilized by franchisees are highly specialized to the industry . Finance your new business properly by speaking to an expert is strongly recommended - seek a Canadian business financing advisor who is experienced, credible, and trusted who will help you solve the cost dilemma of financing a franchise in Canada .

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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.parkavenuefinancial.com/business_franchise_loan_financing_a_franchise.html

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Looking for Business Financing methods? Tap into asset based lending in Canada Today – 1 2 3 You’re Saved!

There is one question we always seem to get from clients - ‘what are some business financing methods we might not be aware of?' ; and our answer is always the same : asset based financing lending is one of those alternatives that we can almost bet you have not heard of - and if you have heard the term we will bet a nickel that you aren’t fully aware of what it is or how it works.

Let’s examine asset based financing from the viewpoint of it being an alternative to a bank line of credit facility. Another way of describing this type of facility is to view it as the full service offering that is directly comparable to a Canadian chartered bank facility, commonly called an operating line of credit.

These types of facilities are of course not long term debt of term loan type scenarios. Can we put it any more simply than its your day to day business credit facility that facilitates payment to suppliers, employees, etc.

What we could call the ' full service ' asset based financing lending model is a facility that is usually a non bank financing arrangement with an independent finance firm that specializes in this type of facility .

It monetizes your current assets, which are typically receivables and inventory. However , there is often what we could describe as an upside kicker to the asset based line of credit because it can also easily margin, from a working capital perspective any unencumbered equipment and real estate that you have . Did you ever thing you could get working capital and cash flow financing and margining on equipment and real estate - we are pretty sure you didn't.

In discussing this financing alternative with clients we point out that the alternative to the full service type of facility (which is typically for larger firms) is an asset based financing lending facility that we call a working capital line of credit. It is generally under 250k and typically just finances receivables. Our favorite and in fact preferred type of facility is one in which your receivables are financed directly but you retain billing and collection control. More about that on another day!

So let’s get back to our asset based line of credit. What does it cost and how does it work, and, as business financing methods go, is it appropriate for your firm

Depending on the size of your facility pricing for asset based lines of credit can be very competitive to bank rates. Larger facilities take 30-45 days to fully set up properly. It should be no secret to the reader that a typical application would include a business credit application, financial statements, and aged asset lists of receivables and inventory.

How much can we get? Is our next most popular question from clients? The answer is lots. Asset based lending relies on the asset values, so typically receivables are margined at 90% and inventory, depending on your industry , can be margined from anywhere from 25-70% in our experience . Most firms could never get that financing on inventory from a bank.

So whats all the hoopla about this method of business financing. We can summarize it by saying its simply an alternative to bank financing when you cant meet bank criteria , its competitive if you have a solid asset base and business prospects , and it provides you with unlimited cash flow and working capital funding as your business grows . The size of the facility grows with your firm.

Confused? Hopefully not. Interested - hopefully so . Speak to a trusted , credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor as to what business financing methods might alter your firms success and investigate asset based financing lending as a solid choice or alternative .
--


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.parkavenuefinancial.com/asset_based_lending_business_financing_methods.html

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Where’s the Cash Working Capital and Cash Flow Loans and Finance For Canadian Business

Read all about it! Read all about it! Isn’t that what the newspaper crier says? Today Canada's two largest business newspapers, remarkably co incidental, had similar headings - ' Canadian Business Revving Up ‘, and the other paper - ' Lenders open financing taps to smaller business ' .

We guess it must be true, because it’s in the paper, right? But there must be something wrong with our plumbing because our client’s taps don’t seem to be flowing with cash flow and working capital offers!

Lets looks at what we consider a real world look at some business financing and lending issues around cash working capital and cash flow loans and finance for Canada's small and medium businesses .

A focus on one of these articles was that it was cheaper for small businesses to get business financing in place. Clearly Canadian chartered banks have the lowest cost of funds as well as the best rates and terms for business financing - its just that on occasion you cant get the funding you need based on bank criteria . We have nothing, by the way, against those bank criteria, because they're lending out our savings to your business. But the hard core reality is that bank financing and looser financing terms, as stated in the article, don’t really jive in our opinion.

In fact many of our clients we talk to are looking for alternative solutions to cash working capital challenges. And they are pleasantly surprised to hear from us that some of those solutions , although they have never heard of them exist, and in fact are becoming more mainstream

So can we share some of those ' secret ' solutions that are available to you today . Heard of C I D, or ABL, or even financing your tax credits? Those solutions are available to Canadian business today. C I D is confidential invoice discounting, and ABL is asset based lending. We strong feel that ABL is the wave of the future when it comes to cash flow loans and finance for Canadian business. Where else in the world can you get working capital funding for inventory, A/R, and even cash flow margining of your unencumbered equipment. Nowhere else, we can assure you of that.

We are pleased to hear that the articles we referenced the fact that during the recent recession (it has ended, right?) Many firms in fact looked to ' other sources of financing ‘.

In many cases the Canadian business owner and financial manager intuitively knows they have a working capital solution need, they simply don’t know their alternatives. Business owners must look to help with their cash cycle and balance the investment they have in A/R and inventory with their creditor payables.

There are new alternative solutions to the funding of working capital. So who can provide you with the best information on cash working capital solutions? You could try your bartender or barber or hair stylist, but quite frankly why not consider an expert instead! Seek and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can ensure cash flow loans and finance solutions that make sense are available to your firm.

------------
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.parkavenuefinancial.com/cash_working_capital_cash_flow_loans_and_finance.html

Reasons for Leasing for Business - Why Equipment Financing Works!

Reasons... and facts. That’s what Canadian business owners are looking for when looking for equipment financing. And quite frankly leasing for business has never been more popular, and made more sense.

Let's examine some of those reasons and facts to ensure you are well informed when you are looking to acquire capital assets for your business. And by the way, capital assets sure is a broad term, because it covers technology , plant equipment, business equipment, rolling stock, even your corporate jet .. (We know ' you wish ...').

So why are hundreds of millions of dollars, probably billions of dollars leased in Canada every year under an equipment financing strategy? It all comes down to a common saying among leasing people, which is simply that you generate profits and sales by using assets, not owning or paying outright for them .

The good news about leasing for business is that the key word is flexibility - credit approvals are more flexible, cash flows can easily be structured to meet your needs, and various balance sheet and tax benefits accrue to companies who lease.

We find in talking to clients looking for innovative lease financing options that we can talk all we want about off balance sheet, tax benefits, depreciations strategies, etc - but, at the end of the day they are simply concerned with getting credit approval and conserving cash. Otherwise of course these assets must be purchased out of bank lines that have already been tightened by your bank.

When we talk to companies that are using effective equipment financing strategies we find, more often than not, that they are simply ahead of their competition in innovative assets that drive revenues and profits. That’s simply of course because there is no huge outlay of capital when acquiring these assets, which more likely than not are depreciating anyway.

Don’t forget also that taxes are paid as part of your monthly installment when are leasing for business assets - a classic working capital conservation strategy. The bottom line is that your firm can grow when you have the ability to conserve cash flow and use it for operating needs and further re investment.

It sometime is difficult for business owners to determine who the right leasing partner is. There are hundreds of firms, many are in fact not Canadian, and all firms have different credit, deal size, and interest rate policies related to how transactions are structured. If you are looking for a quick way to navigate the entire equipment financing marketplace in Canada speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who will assist you in completing a transaction that makes sense and achieves the approval and benefits your firm is looking for.
--

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/equipment_financing_leasing_for_business.html

Monday, January 10, 2011

How The Right Factoring Firms in Canada Can Provide Financing Factor Facilities Confidentially

You've heard about it - You suspect your competitors use it, you think it might work for you; it’s just that you don’t fully understand what it is! We're talking about factoring firms in Canada, and why financing factoring in the Canadian factor marketplace gains traction daily among small and medium sizes businesses all across Canada.

Let’s help you examine what this type of financing is, why it is grossly misunderstood by many business owners and financial managers, what it costs, and how it works. That’s a mouthful of information!

Financing factoring is an option you have to financing your business - it’s as simple as that. Clients are usually concerned about two things, how it works, and what does it cost?

Those are typical questions, in addition to wanting to understand the benefits of this type of Canadian business financing.
At its basic core the factor firm is a buyer of your receivables. The good news is that when you sell them you get immediate cash - we are talking same day cash. That brings to bear one of the largest misconceptions about this type of business financing, because the use of factoring firms in Canada you have eliminated the need to wait for the collection of your receivables. Typically these days clients are waiting anywhere from 30 ( you wish !) to 90 days, sometimes longer to collect their cash and generate cash flow and working capital back into their firm .

The cost of financing factoring in Canada generally is in the 1-3% per month range - while that initial information is often perceived as high to many clients the reality is they are spending that much, and more by carrying those receivables 90 days, and being further unable to utilize that cash to sell more and generate more profits.

So you can quickly see that with the right type of factor facility in Canada you have the ability to generate huge amounts of working capital and then in turn sell more, maintain relationships with suppliers on a better basis, and, as we said, create more profits, hopefully So that is what factoring is and why it can work for you.

But here's the biggest secret we can share - by working with the right factor firm or Canadian business financing expert and advisor you can actually create a facility that one ups your competition . That is because the factoring they are utilizing invoices the factor firm verifying billing and collecting with their clients. What you should actually be striving for is a confidential invoice financing facility that allows you to collect and bill your own receivables, with you in control, not the other factoring firms in Canada.

So, in summary, if you are carrying receivables, short on cash flow and working capital, financing factoring is clearly an option and solution. The optimal facility is the C I D - Confidential invoice discounting. Speak to a experienced, trusted, and credible Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you in putting together a facility that works.

--

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/financing_factoring_factoring_firms_canada_factor.html

Sunday, January 9, 2011

How To Raise Money For Film Financing via Ontario and BC film grants and Tax Credits

Can your film financing (television and animation also by the way) via Ontario and BC film grants and tax credits be the final piece of your project financing puzzle. We'll let you decide but we can’t imagine you not entertaining any financing, that is non repayable, that might cover 30 -45% of your entire project budget.

In order to achieve financing success you need expert help and information on how the tax credit and film financing area works in Canada. Two of the most common regions for film, production, and therefore tax credits are Ontario and BC ( British Columbia ) , but not everyone is aware that pretty well every Canadian province, in conjunction with Revenue Canada ( for you Americans that’s our version of the IRS !) has a robust film tax credit program.

Only when you master the techniques and processes around film financing and the use of the generous tax credits will your project be properly financed - That’s of course unless you're a major studio, but that’s not the clients we're addressing here.

We should note also that once you develop a process, and have a proper team around that typically an entertainment accountant, a lawyer, and a production accountant) then you can pursue and replicate the same process of funding your projects via Ontario and BC film grants and tax credits for all future projects.

The film tax credits in effect ' bridge the gap ' between your vision of the project, its potential financial success, and your ability to fund and complete the project.

Film tax credits and film financing happens of course everywhere in the world. Where Canada excels is the fact that you have generally uniform process for the entire country and the program is well funded and generally very efficiently administered. It's one of the few times in our business careers where the line ' I'm from the government and here to help ‘makes actual sense!

Lets use Ontario as a quick example of how to raise the tax credit financing you need. The Ontario program is so efficient these days that the applications for financing are actually done online via the government body that administers and approves the tax credit certificates. However, before you get to that stage, as we noted earlier, you need to be in a position to have a proper budget in place that will reflect what the eligible spend is on the items that are being funded by the tax credit.

As a quick rule of thumb you can generally expect your budget to return approximately 35% of your labour expenditures for a production filmed or produced here in Ontario. The reality is that if you film outside of the Greater Toronto Area formulas are in place that further enhances the credits by an additional 10 per cent.

The additional great news we share with clients is that your tax credits are financeable. That dramatically changes a good deal into a great deal because you can receive loan financing on the tax credit either during production as you spend, or when completed and you have your final certificates in place . Naturally for your film tax credit to be financed you need to have a proper legal entity in place (commonly known as special purpose vehicles - SPV) and your tax returns and filings must be up to date.

Raising money for film financing involves 3 components, equity, debt and mezzanine, and tax credit financing. Let Ontario and BC film grants and tax credits be the final piece of your financing puzzle for your project in film, TV, and animation. Speak to a trusted, credible and experience Canadian business financing advisor in the film tax credit area to ensure you maximize this great finance strategy for your project.

--


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.parkavenuefinancial.com/film_financing_ontario_bc_film_grants_tax_credits.html

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Your Company Qualifies For A sr ed tax credit financing - Can you factor sred? Yes you can!

Many companies in Canada taking advantage of the sred program (formally called the Scientific Research and Experimental Development) are surprised to find that they can in effect ' cash flow ' or 'monetize' that claim into the liquid gold business calls cash flow.

So, does sred financing make sense for your firm - by the way, we think it does... and how can you ensure you qualify? Let's ensure we cover off some of the basics around those issues in order for you to determine if sred finance makes sense for you.
If we go back to square one it all comes down to knowing what the program is, ensuring you qualify, and then having a claim to submit. SRED claims are submitted when you file your year end tax return.

If you have never filed a sred claim 2 key points immediately are a focus of discussion when we meet with clients - first of all you have to have the technical expertise to prepare a claim. Secondly, in the last year or so the government has altered the program in order to make submission more expeditious. You of course need to be aware of the new format guidelines, which in effect simplify your preparation and filing process.

In our opinion, and most agree we are quite sure, you want a sred consultant to prepare your claim. These are folks in private industry who specialize in preparing claims, and more often than not they have done work in your industry. We are quite sure we have your agreement than an expert in any industry is better than a rookie.
Technically your accountant could prepare you claim, but we're often surprised to hear clients tell us that their accountant was not even aware of the program!

In order to receive funds for your sred credit - and by the way these funds are non - repayable (yes you heard us correctly) you simply need to file a qualified claim.

Waiting for your refund is what sr Ed tax credit finance is all about. Sred financing is based on the premise that your firm could use the cash flow today, instead of waiting for weeks, months, or even a year in some cases.

So how do you factor, or discount, or cash flow, or monetize that sred claim. (All those terms mean the same thing). It’s a simply process; locate a specialist in Canadian business financing who can assist you in preparing a simply application that includes your sred claim and basic financial application info. Claims are generally financed at 70% loan to value, meaning the 30% is held back as a buffer. No payments are made on the financing and the final cheque from the government is netted against your advance.

In the meantime you can make use of those funds for any general corporate purpose.

So - do you qualify for a sred tax credit financing - if you have a claim you do? Should you consider a factor or finance scenario around your claim - that’s for you to decide and for us to suggest. And by the way, if you don’t need cash or working capital, then don’t finance the claim - but who is in that position these days?

--

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/sr_ed_tax_credit_sred_financing_factor_sred.html

Friday, January 7, 2011

Franchise Funding and Financing Options for Franchisees In Canada

As a new potential franchisee in the Canadian franchise industry you want, and need! … some basic info around how franchise funding works in Canada. Those financing options may be critical to your overall success as a new entrepreneur in your chosen industry.

Ironically experts tell us that one of the main reasons that people don’t go into the franchise arena as independent business owners and entrepreneurs is because they feel they either did not have or could not raise the funding for the business.

Naturally in the current tough ( but getting better!) economic environment start up capital for any business is a challenge - so having access to the best information and resources around franchise funding is clearly a major key to success .

It kind of all starts with a business plan , we meet with many clients who have initially been refused for franchisee financing for the very simply reason they weren’t prepared and the reality is you don’t get a lot of chances in financing a new business when you are unprepared .

If you aren’t able to prepare a proper plan yourself you can speak to a trusted advisor in Canadian business franchise financing and one can easily be prepared for you - it’s all about working with an expert. The key part of any business plan is that you can present your financials properly - which simply means what sales you feel you can achieve, what your expenses will be, and what projected profits will be . A key element of all that is your ability to generate cash flow to repay your franchise funding loans - which makes perfect sense - from the lenders perspective of course!

Your plan has to be presented properly and you should be able to anticipate any questions the lender will have about your experience, how you will run your business, what other resources you can bring to the table, etc.

It’s not always about size in life, but in this case we do advise clients that the larger your franchise financing requirement is - well you should be expected to have a more detailed proposal and plan.

Franchisees in Canada may not be aware that their biggest ally Vis a Vis a financing option for their new business is the Canadian government! That tends to floor our clients when we share that info with them - but the reality is that the majority of the financing in Canada for franchisees revolves around a government sponsored loan that is formally called the BIL or CSBF loan program. It is underwritten by he government, but administered by the banks in Canada

Rates for the above mentioned franchise funding and loan program are very competitive and there are some key requirements you should have ready when you submit your proposal for consideration. And by the way, OPM does not work in franchise financing in Canada - that being the acronym for other peoples money! We are always explaining to clients that the funding of their business comes from two sources, the loan or loans, and their own personal equity injection - so you must absolutely be prepared to make a personal equity investment in the business.

How much of your own equity is required - that can be calculated by simple formulas pertaining to the amount you have to borrow and your ability to meet debt to equity ratios and working capital solvency .

There are some great franchise opportunities in Canada. Investigate your financing options with a trusted, credible, and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who will work wit you as a potential franchisee to achieve business financing success.

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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/franchise_funding_financing_options_franchisees.html

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Keep Your Company Moving With An Asset Based Lending Operating Line Of Credit - Your Competitors Do !

You've been watching them and it’s quite disturbing. Every business keeps an eye on its competitors - that's what business is about. So why does the competition seem to enjoy what seems like unlimited cash flow for their sales and growth and expansion.

We think we know the reason why, and its called asset based lending. This type of business financing, relatively speaking is new to Canada and supercharges cash flow and liquidity.

Naturally our clients , being the conservative types they are wonder aloud about several key issues - what are the qualifications for this type of financing, what is the min and max deal size, and what are some of the costs of this type of financing .
Let’s cover those issues off in an effort to ensure you understand the power of asset based lending and why this type of operating line of credit could be your savior in business financing.

Qualifications? There is basically one! You need assets - otherwise asset based lending doesn’t work. The asset based line of credit competes with the operating line of credit offered by Canadian chartered banks . It is provided by non bank institutions that are specialized in asset based lending. Banks, on the other hand are specialized in financial statements we can add facetiously. What we mean by that of course is simply that charted bank business lines of credit in Canada focus on overall financial statement quality - the key underpinnings are solid financial statements reflecting profit, equity, liquidity, and overall solid cash flow.

On the other hand the asset based lender only wants to know one thing - well two actually, do you have assets and are they managed well. What are those assets - they tend to be receivables, inventory, and in some cases equipment and real estate.
These assets mentioned above secured an operating line of credit which is margined on a regular basis. What interests our clients is of course the margining of those assets, and asset based lending does that very well. Typical structures are 90% of receivables, 50-75% advances on inventory (yes you heard us correctly) and working capital financing provided on the appraised value of hard assets that are unencumbered - i.e. the real estate and equipment if you have them and need financing for them.

The ABL (that’s the acronym for this type of financing) gives you cash flow to meet payroll, build inventory, and basically grow your company.

Facility sizes for asset based lending tend to start at 250k and above - otherwise the facility , if under that amount, tends to be a receivable financing facility , which by the way works quite nicely also .

Circling back to our final client question - cost. We can make a general statement that if your deal size is significant, i.e. over 5m you can generally achieve rates that are comparable with the bank. Facilities under that amount are more expensive than bank financing - but , guess what ,you get all the liquidity you need, which has its benefits re growing your business, turning your assets faster, enhancing relationships with suppliers, and taking on more business than you ever could before .

Looking for an operating line of credit - ABL could be your solution - Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor today on this new form of financing your working capital.

--

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/asset_based_lending_operating_line_of_credit.html

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Your Executive Decision in 2011 - Working Capital Cash Flow! Working Capital Finance Is Easier Than You Think!

It’s resolved, all those in favor say aye! Doesn’t the timing to reassess your working capital cash flow needs heading into 2011 seem perfect? Working capital finance solutions are available, and they are not always what you thought they might be.

Let’s try and be realistic and positive here. The recession (we read this in the newspaper today, so it must be true) is over, your business is on the rebound, but, those same cash flow challenges still haunt your ownership and management on a daily basis.

Your ability to put together effective techniques and solutions around working capital financing always goes back o the management of your short term assets such as cash, receivables, and inventories. And yes, it’s always a balancing act that challenges you everyday, we know that. The cash requirements come out of the need to meet your day to day expenses, pay employees, and make payments on any debt obligations you have

In talking to clients inventory levels that allow you to run your business, minimize constant re ordering, and taking advantage of price and volume discounts continue to be a main challenge.

Can this challenge be addressed? It sure can, and in a number of ways. You can arrange a long term unsecured working capital loan to address product needs - alternatively you can blend the borrowing power of your receivables and inventory on a combo basis via a working capital facility that margins receivables and inventory. This facility, called an asset based line of credit when it’s for a larger amount will turn your company into a constant cash flow machine if you manage it properly. We point out to clients that this type of working capital cash flow facility we just described is offered by a non bank private finance firm, so we encourage clients to speak to a Canadian business financing advisor as to how these facilities work.

Working capital finance inevitably focuses on the management of your receivables. You can amend credit policies, shorter your payment terms, extend those terms, or simply collect your receivables more efficiently and aggressively. Those are all measures of how you identify your credit policy. The other side of that coin is how you finance that huge investment you more than likely have in a.r.

In Canada several clear options are available, for smaller firms you have the ability to generate an unsecured business merchant cash advance against your future sales and receivables, credit card sales included! Medium sized firms in Canada can access the aforementioned working capital facility, aka the asset based line of credit. Larger corporations can entertain the securitization of their receivables via an off balance sheet financing.

There is only one bottom line in working capital cash flow - its simply that you need to understand your cash flow challenge, and then investigate the proper options to remedy that challenge, allowing you to fuel long term growth and profits .

In some cases traditional bank financing, via the right bank and banker will work. When it doesn’t consult a credible, experienced and trusted Canadian business financing advisor who will help you identify real world solutions for cash flow success.

--

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/working_capital_cash_flow_working_capital_finance.html

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Avoid Missing Out On Finance For Lease Benefits When You Choose The Right Leasing Company

Is it possible to get all the right finance for lease benefits in place with one leasing company ? That might not necessarily be the case, but the reality is that if you know the right questions to ask and which partner firm to work with you should be in a great position to maximize on benefits that makes sense - for your firm!

Your business, when it comes to leasing equipment, is not a lot different than many of your competitors. It's actually quite simple - you want good service, a competitive rate... (Notice we say ' competitive ‘... more on that later ) and prompt approval. We are dismayed when clients tell us of previous experience in getting a lease approved - in our perspective this should takes days, not weeks and months as some clients have experienced in the past .

Let’s get back to that whole issue of pricing - we mentioned a ' competitive ' rate. Our problem is that our clients are always focusing on the absolute best rate and tend to miss out on some of the obviously other advantages that they should instead be focusing on. These other advantages might include lease documentation simplicity, end of lease renewal or buyout options. Ability to upgrade during the term of the lease, etc.

So, yes we agree that you don’t want to pay the highest lease rate in town, but the reality is that finance firms have to stay competitive in business - and guess what... want to know another secret? It’s simply what we have shared with clients for years, in that they get to pick their own rate when looking for a lease company and finance for lease benefits that makes sense.

What?! Asks the client. What could we possibly mean by that? Well it’s simple actually. Your pricing and approval are driven by credit quality in lease financing in Canada. So if you can demonstrate your credit quality, and you choose the right lease partner relative to deal size, type of asset you are financing, etc then, guess what, we can pretty much guarantee that you can have an important say in that final rate . Again, if it’s just 'rate ' that’s important, and it shouldn’t be!

We talked earlier about your company being in the same boat as your competitors when it comes to lease financing - we do acknowledge though that every firm is different in some manner or respect, so if you do have specialized needs on types of assets to finance, customized solutions, cash flow flexibility needs, etc .. Well then of course you need some extra help.

Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can make sure you are comfortably with the right partner leasing company and that the finance for lease benefits you are looking for is achievable.

-

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/leasing_company_finance_for_lease_benefits.html

Monday, January 3, 2011

Why A Merchant Cash Business Advance Makes Sense for Cash Flow

A merchant cash business advance is fast becoming a mainstream financing strategy for Canadian small business owners. However, in talking to clients they are concerned about two key issues around this innovative financing method.

Those two key issues are:

How does it work?

What are the Costs?

We firmly believe that if you understand those two critical points then your firm is in a position to benefit from a merchant advance and Canadian cash flow solutions.

And those benefits are significant and quite clear. They include your peace of mind as it relates to business financing, since these facilities grow with your business and are unlike pre-set bank credit lines, etc .
Time is money as the Canadian business owner well knows. A merchant cash advance in Canada works quickly and efficiently (When you have chosen the right partner and the right type of facility). Once the initial set up process is completed, usually in a week or two the facility runs itself at your discretion. You in effect have taken complete control of your cash flow.

Our final key benefit that we should focus on before getting back to our two critical points is simply that this financing tool, if used properly, allows you to generate more sales and increase profits via key turnover of sales and inventory, etc.

O.K. – You now know many of the key benefits of factoring. Is it right for your firm? Critical point #1 – How does it work?
A merchant cash business advance is simply best described as the short term sale, or ‘discounting ‘of your sales . You generate cash, at your option, on the same day that you generate an sale for a sale and delivery of product and services to your client base.

Critical Point # 2- What does this type of working capital cash flow financing cost? .We have actually demonstrated too many customers that the true cost of merchant advance type financing is actually zero or less than bank financing in many cases. Why is that?

We hate to do it, but let’s go to the text book finance formula known as the DuPont Model . If you discount your sales, i.e. , get cash the same day, buy more inventory with that cash, negotiate a better price with suppliers with that cash, and then repeat the process over and over we can almost guarantee you, depending on your industry and A/R turnover that a business advance can become a profit mechanism for your firm. That’s certainly clears up a lot of the ‘negative ‘things you have heard about this type of financing , its costs, etc.

Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced business financing advisor on the benefits of a merchant cash business advance , how it works, and how financing costs can be controlled and reduced. That’s true cash flow and working capital financing for Canadian business.

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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/merchant_cash_business_advance_cash_flow.html

Get A Fast Merchant Cash Advance And Business Cash Flow Loan in Canada

A merchant cash advance for business cash flow continues to grow and become more widely used in smaller sized firms in the Canadian business environment.

Smaller Canadian firms who do not have major investments in receivables and inventory do not have the financing alternatives enjoyed by their larger company counterparts. Larger corporations use the concept of securitization as a method of financing working capital and enhancing balance sheets. This type of sophisticated financing allows firms to improve liquidity and satisfy lender loan covenants.
Smaller firms, usually do to cost, lack of financial sophistication, and size are unable to utilize such alternative financing. Additionally, in the current 2009/2010 financial environment many firms are struggling with their ability to maintain bank credit facilities, let alone increase them!

The discounting of future sales, for cash today , allows firms to convert working capital into immediate cash. This comes with a cost which we will also discuss.

It is critical to note that when a firm sells, or factors, or discounts (they all mean the same thing) they retain no ownership or interest in the future sale .

Depending on how the merchant advance facility is structured they may or may not have responsibility for the ultimate non- collectibility of the account. Lenders address that issue in a variety of manners.

Smaller companies in Canada aren't able to enter to large multi year arrangements, with lower costs, that would allow them to achieve the benefits of a true securitization.
But ... ! .. you can sell sell future sales under a discounting agreement. This can be done with a minimum of cost and deals can be structured uniquely to the customers situation, and their is a lower cost and no reliance on lawyers, advisors, etc.
If used on a regular basis the merchant cash advance discounting process continually generates new working capital, allows the customer to generate better rates as time goes on, and, most importantly, relieves the financial stress of managing working capital.
It is very important to note that smaller companies have some distinct choices that on occasion the larger firms don't have. They can on a one time basis, or periodically choose to utilize this alternate financing method.
Ultimately the business owner does have to pay back the lender or generate sales that will allow the repayment .
Typically the costs in business cash flow financing vary greatly. Rates range from 1.5 - 3% on a monthly basis. Most customers view this as an ' interest rate ', while the lender tends to view it as discount rate.
Generally the facility can be set up in a couple of weeks! We have seen our clients set up a facility in a matter of days !
As we can imagine it takes the larger corporations many months (and many thousands of dollars) to set up their large dollar securitization facilities.



In summary, more and more firms are turning towards a merchant cash advance business cash flow loan to manage their working capital and liquidity challenges.
Firms are strongly advised to search out experts in this area who know the Canadian marketplace, as it differs substantially from the U.S. environment in this unique method of alternative financing.

--

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/business_cash_flow_merchant_cash_advance.html

Why a Confidential Factoring Receivable And Invoice Finance Program Will Work For Your Firm

Are we right or wrong? We have always maintained that knowing something others don't in business gives you an advantage, and we think you’ll see that advantage when we tell you about a confidential factoring program that works and why this type of invoice finance puts you head and shoulders above your competition.

You probably have heard that thousands of Canadian firms have moved to invoice discounting as their primary finance vehicle. Unfortunately mis information about this type of financing is everywhere, and we'll show you how the advantages of receivable financing can be put to work immediately.

The real power of confidential invoice financing is the fact that you have the ability to bill and collect your own receivables. 99.9% of your competition won’t be able to do this, and it is that stigma along with their suppliers, employees, etc that your competitors cant overcome.

Invoice financing works because as you grow your company the collection of cash doesn’t, unfortunately, match the amount of sales you are generating. Those customers of yours continue to pay you in 30, 60, and 90 days... like it or not.

Naturally we tell our clients they have the option of restricting their customer’s credit, holding shipments, and enforcing a strict collection policy - as you can imagine that is not their preferred solution - which is more often than not to extend more credit and be patient with their customers.

If you have an operating line of credit from a bank you could generally fund this working capital at a pretty decent cost - unfortunately small and medium sized business in Canada can't always access this type of credit.

Enter a confidential factoring receivable and invoice finance program! When you utilize this type of financing you are generating all the short term borrowing you need, and, more importantly, you have the ability, unlike those competitors of yours to bill and collect your own receivables. Most receivable financing in Canada is actually done on a full notification basis - it works, but we don’t like it, because it involves notifying our clients, employees, etc as to how your firm is being financing. We prefer that to be our clients business, not the entire marketplace!

When you use confidential invoice financing you receive approx 90% of the invoice amount the day you generate the invoice. The balance is simply held back and remitted to you when your customer pays you - less the financing charges.

And hey, what about those financing charges - aren’t they high? We have some strong opinions on that, mainly due to mis information that abounds on the cost of factoring. Confidential invoice factoring costs the same as regular financing in this manner, and we point out to clients that the charge is not dissimilar to carrying those accounts receivable for 60-90 days on your books. And making using of that cash to generate further sales and profits, enhance relationships with suppliers, etc, is a key benefit of this financing.

Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor and learn how you can take a unique competitive lead via a confidential invoice finance program.
--

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 6 years - has completed in excess of 50 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

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

Sunday, January 2, 2011

How To Get Approved For Cash Flow Funding Via A Merchant Cash Advance In Canada

There isn't a day these days when we don’t meet or talk to a small business client who is having cash flow funding challenges. One solution becoming increasing popular in Canada is a merchant cash advance.

With the right partner firm we have found this type of financing to be a solid interim solution for cash flow financing and working capital. Let’s look at how this type of financing helps our clients achieve working capital success and why it might be right for your firm.

You can call it non traditional or alternative, but quite frankly its becoming more popular everyday and thousands of businesses are taking advantage of this type of business cash flow funding . The success of merchant cash advance financing always seems to come back to the issue of your business not being able to secure working capital financing from what we call our traditional sources, i.e. banks, finance firms.

And the reality around this type of financing is that it is quick and easy, and , more remarkably, often unsecured , depending solely on your ability to generate sales based on historical performance and projected profits . Even though the government continues to encourage banks to pay more attention to small business financing the reality is that traditional financing is 99.9% of the time secured via collateral, personal net worth’s, strong personal credit scores of the owners, and generally stable financial performance from a historical perspective.

The above is all well and good, but tends to eliminate the hundreds of clients we meet who have real business challenges and can’t meet some or all of the aforementioned lending criteria.

So how does this type of financing work. You may have heard of the business financing known as factoring. This, in a nutshell, is the financing of your receivables as you generate them. - I.e. same day cash for sales you make. However, thousands of firms, perhaps yours, have a major revenue component made up of cash and credit card sales, and you still need financing for the same reasons: purchasing inventory, reducing payables, making loan payments, etc.

That’s where the merchant cash advance comes in - in essence you receive cash today for future credit and cash sales. Isn’t this risky for the lender, asks our clients? That may or may not be... but the reality is that if your firm, as an example , can demonstrate via bank statements or credit card sale stats that you have solid sales then the merchant advance lender is prepared to advance you funds today for a percentage of those future sales . A quick example is that you could receive , again, as an example, an $80,000 cash flow loan today and repay it, by agreement, with , for example, 20% of all future cash or credit sales . You are receiving cash today, allowing you to fuel further growth in sales and profits.

Speak to a trusted, credible, and experienced Canadian business financing advisor as to how your firm can benefit today from this innovative and valuable cash flow financing.

--

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 6 years - has completed in excess of 50 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :


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

Looking For Canadian Tax Credits For Film Financing?

The train has just left the station and unfortunately your project isn’t on it? We're of course referring to the fact that you might be missing out on Canadian tax credits for film financing.

While many states in the U.S. and in other parts of the world also can only currently describe their film tax credit programs as mild disarray Canada's robust tax credit program for film finance is dead on track for being generous, robust, and, in our clients opinion well administered and funded .

Utilizing Canadian film and video production services tax credits can be the final piece of your financing puzzle as you cobble together debt, equity, and tax incentives to complete the financing of your project. The new paradigm of film financing (we’re also talking of course about television and digital animation projects) is to do the best you can with any number of finance vehicles to complete your project. The economic meltdown of 2008 and 2009 is behind us, things are looking up, but unfortunately there is left a bit of scorched earth as the landscape for independent film financing has eliminated many finance firms, hedge funds, and banks who participated in this entertainment financing.

But through all that the Canadian tax credits for film financing not only stayed intact, they got more generous, and most would agree are efficiently administered. And when you take those tax credits and utilize them as a key part of your financing strategy then you've got a winning combination.

The Canadian government uses provides these tax credits to attract productions such as yours - their own reasons , whether they be cultural, economic, employment , etc are for academics and tax payers to debate - all you have to do is utilize these credits to the maximum for your own projects success .

In the past the entire approval and financing of the Canadian tax credits for film financing was viewed as cumbersome. Boy has that changed. With the aid of a Canadian film tax consultant you can very quickly assemble a competent team which would include an entertainment accountant who can validate your budgets and spends, and at the same time help you navigate the whole tax credit certification process.

With a proper team in place, and having your other debt and equity lined up, you can actually cash flow the credit prior to your project completion - that simply provides you with cash flow and working capital for your project. Typical tax credits on a per cent age basis can actually be 30-45% of your entire project. We repeat - 30 -45%!

So whats our bottom line again? We think its quite simple - don’t let the Canadian tax credits for film financing train leave the station without your project on board! Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor in film tax credits who can help you cash flow and monetize your project.
--

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 6 years - has completed in excess of 50 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :


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

Saturday, January 1, 2011

How Much Will Sred Tax Credit Financing Cost You and why Sr ed Funding Makes Sense

Does a sred tax credit financing make sense for your firm, and whats the cost of sr&Ed funding in Canada? Well, we'd like to show you some solid reasons to consider a sr&ed loan - we'll let you make that decision , our role is to inform – yours is to decide!


If you are filing sred tax credit claims in Canada you also have the option to finance those claims, when completed, or in some cases, in advance! More about that advance scenario later.

Not every Canadian business owner and financial manager knows they can finance a sred claim - we meet with clients all the time who are surprised their tax credit can actually be financed and monetized into real cash flow, immediately. Naturally we are even more surprised when we run into firms that don’t even know about the program , or , more astonishingly, consider it ' troublesome' to file for a non repayable tax credit . Are we missing something, or is that akin to saying ' no thanks' to some free money.

If you do an internet search on the term ' government grants and loans ' you will see that there are thousands of inquiries around that term. In our humble opinion the two best ' government ' related programs in Canadian business financing are the Scientific Research and Experimental Development program, aka SRED! The other program is the government guaranteed subsidized Loan program, commonly known as the BIL program. More about that one on another day.

Filing your sred claim with the assistance of a firm or accountant or industry specialist is a large part of maximizing your claim. They know the positioning and guidelines around a proper submission, and its all about that fine line of maximizing your claim but ensuring it meets all the criteria. In the last year or so the government has actually streamlined the whole process around submissions, and the jury is still out as to whether Canadian business owners filing for sred tax credits consider this a good or bad thing.

Anyway, sred tax credit financing is available if you have a claim. And we are not talking via the bank, which generally doesn’t consider this a finance vehicle, but rather independent finance firms and Canadian business financing advisors who specialize in sr&Ed funding.

Clients are always very focused on their questions - we can close our eyes and rhyme them off - ' how much does it cost' ' whats involved' and ' how much can I get '.

Claims are generally financed at 70% of the value and the balance is simply held back as a buffer. The whole process can be completed in a week or two with your firm’s co operation, sr&Ed funding is structured very uniquely. You receive funding and don’t make any payments on this financing; it’s a kind of bridge loan. The financing charges are in the 2% per month range - sometimes less, and sometimes more and you can use the funds for any general corporate purpose. With a good track record your claim can be financed during the year as you spend funds , so it is kind of an accrual scenario .

Does sr&Ed funding makes sense? It does it you can use the cash from your non repayable grant to grow your business, increase profits, continue the battle against the competition, and increase your firms cash flow and working capital. The opportunity cost of not doing anything with your claim might just be too great!

Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor around tax credit financing that might just make great sense for your firm.

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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 6 years - has completed in excess of 50 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations .Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :

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