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Buying a business in Canada. Talk About Temptation! We’re talking about acquisition financing solutions purchasing an existing business that's already profitable, or, on the other hand a firm that is challenged and due for your turnaround. In both cases current owners might be motivated to sell, but for different reasons!



How do firms for sale get themselves in trouble? Often it's lack of funding and too much existing debt, as opposed to operating problems which are a whole different kettle of fish.


It might be an obvious solution to use your own funds in financing a business acquisition. Those funds typically come from personal savings and investments, or equity lines of credit on homes, etc. However, as a business purchase gets larger in size it is less probable you will use all or a large part of your personal savings; therefore a combination of some owner investment, as well as business financing and possible participation from the seller (seller financing ) will most likely be the route you choose to pursue. That combination certain allows the buyer to consider larger transactions.

AT 7 Park Avenue Financial we often receive queries around the concept of ' 100% Financing ' in financing the purchase of an existing business . In general, this does not exist in the Canadian marketplace ( we can't speak for our more risk-oriented friends in the U.S. ! ) Both sellers of companies, as well as commercial lenders, want to see the proverbial ' skin in the game ', demonstrating the purchaser's commitment to the transaction.



Some immediate issues to look into are arrangements with current lenders. This is often the scenario of working capital being extremely limited due to the current financing structure.



There are numerous ' valuation techniques ' in business acquisition loans when establishing the right price for the business. If a business is already losing money and has poor or negative cash flows it's time to take a hard look at the assets. There is no perfect method for establishing the value of the business you are buying, and by the way, profits are not the same as cash!

A good valuation strategy is to spend the proper amount of time ' normalizing ' the financials of the business. That process allows you to take out or add in expenses not currently reflected in the business, as well as looking at how revenues are generated and recognized. Review both past sales and profits as well as your ability to estimate reasonable going forward projections. For larger transactions many firms turn to ' CBV's ' - Chartered business evaluators for valuation advice for the right price around the finance to purchase a business.



The good news about existing assets is there are numerous financing strategies to assist in finalizing a transaction with the right business acquisition loan.


These solutions include:



The Govt of Canada Guaranteed Small Business Loan (It finances assets and leaseholds and has a new maximum borrowing cap of $1,000,000.00



Sale Leasebacks - Equipment financing and leasebacks preserve cash and allow you to purchase new or used assets with minimum cash outflows - It is a solid way to match the useful life of assets with cash outflow



Asset Based Bridge Loans and Business Credit Lines - Leveraging the assets of a business allows the buyer to consider a commercial asset based lender to facilitate financing the transaction. Not only does this minimize the amount of funds you have to invest personally it allows you to capitalize on the true value of the business you are looking at ; those assets typically able to be leveraged include fixed assets, real estate, inventory, and receivables.


Seller Financing - At 7 Park Avenue Financial numerous we find that numerous new clients looking to  buy a business do not consider the vendor financing scenario. This is a very viable component of your financing package and the amount of the loan from the seller, as well as the terms, can vary significantly. Suffice to say that the seller finance component also reduces the amount you will have to finance, which is positive from both purchaser and business lender perspectives.

In many cases the seller will be more open to sharing very detailed and critical information on the business as the seller has a vested interest in closing the deal, as well as preserving the legacy and reputation of the business. Since the seller is not a commercial lender the terms and rate structure around the ' VTB ' are often more generous than could be obtained from banks or finance companies. It should be noted that traditional banks and finance firms will always insist on their financing security ranking ahead of the seller finance component! Nice try seller!!

It would be unusual for the seller component to be larger than what is financed through external commercial lenders but it still is sometimes a good portion of the final transaction.
We can assume that almost all sellers will want full disclosure from the buyer on credit history, business experience, future plans for the company, etc, given they have a vested interest, in you, their ' new partner ' for at least a period of time.



Naturally the quality of the assets is key, whether they are fixed ' hard' assets or the assets that represent working capital components - i.e. accounts receivable & inventories. Key point - book values don't tell the true value of the assets, and in some cases you might need to make an investment in new technology - i.e. computers/software, etc (Equipment Leasing is almost always the best way to acquire tech assets given their cash outflow flexibility)



Service companies that have few assets are always more challenging to finance given lack of hard assets.



While new owners will almost always be required to put some of their own cash into the business many financing solutions will also drive the minimum and maximum amount they will need to put up. Asset based lending strategies will often help minimize owner equity investment.



While Canadian chartered banks are a great source of financing for acquiring existing profitable businesses they are somewhat more than reluctant to finance firms with obvious financial challenges. Banks will almost always focus on a business plan, mgmt experience, the balance sheet and owner personal financial statements.

Most purchasers of an existing business will often experience difficulty in accessing total bank financing for the transaction. While your business plan and future cash flow projections might be impressive the banks have a total focus on ' assets ' and ' cash flow '. They will also place a large reliance on business experience in the industry in question and will be looking for borrowers to demonstrate good personal credit history combined with a reasonable net worth.

On certain transactions you may have to, or choose to, assume the debt of the existing company as part of the financing package. This typically is more advantageous to the seller than the owner for liability type reasons and should be reviewed carefully if this is a part of your strategy. Suffice to say current lenders must also approve the buyer for any assumption of debt.



While it is not a ' direct ' bank loan per se, many purchasers of small businesses should consider the Government of Canada Small Business Loan program. This program also works extremely well on franchises. While there are some minimal conditions around the loan program, administered by Industry Canada, the program offers good interest rates, flexible repayment, and minimal personal guarantees. All of those should be very attractive to the potential borrower.

Prospective purchasers should not forget that a business can be purchased, from an accounting and tax and legal perspective as a ' share sale ' or an ' asset sale '. Purchasing a company from a share sale perspective entails certain risks as you may be acquiring hidden liabilities. Also buying a business has certain legal fees and miscellaneous costs associated with your transaction. These should be included in your cash flow assumptions, and they might include expenses such as appraisals, legal fees, business advisory fees, etc.

TRANSACTION CLOSED! WHAT'S NEXT?

OPERATING THE BUSINESS EFFECTIVELY VIA THE RIGHT TAKEOVER FINANCING STRATEGIES

In the rush and stress to close an acquisition we find that many prospective purchaser don't give full consideration to the financing of ongoing day to day operations. While it is not impossible for a firm to be self-financing if its ' cash conversion cycle ' is less than thirty days it is certainly the most unlikely of circumstances. If your firm does not have a positive cash flow management can undertake numerous ways to refocus efficiencies - that might include improving days sales outstanding and focusing on better inventory turnover, and better payables management with the risk of alienating key suppliers.

That need for constant working capital and cash flow replenishment will often focus the business owner and financial manager to look at a business line of credit.

The business line of credit is the cornerstone of operational financing. These revolving facilities provide cash as you maintain your investment in accounts receivable and inventory. Naturally service based industries do not have to concern themselves over the inventory component on the balance sheets of many industrial companies.

SOLUTIONS FOR THE BUSINESS LINE OF CREDIT REQUIREMENT

Various subsets of asset based lending provide solution funding for ongoing day to day operations post the acquisition phase. These solutions include:

Asset Based Non-Bank Lines of Credit - These credit lines are based on all the collateral of the business and usually imply a larger amount of financial leverage. These borrowing facilities are usually a bridge to getting a company back to traditional bank financing and don't come with the often more severe covenants and ratio requirements required by our chartered banks.


Invoice Factoring / Confidential Receivable Financing - A/R financing strategies are probably the most popular cash flow solution in current times ; they allow a business to cash flow their sales immediately and assist in avoiding the waiting period to collect receivables which can easily run anywhere from 30-90 days - At 7 Park Avenue Financial we will often recommend Confidential Receivable Financing, allowing you to get all the benefits of factoring as well as being able to bill and collect your own invoices


Equipment Financing / Sale-Leaseback Equipment leasing and leaseback strategies minimize cash outflows for the purchase of new and used equipment, including technology finance requirements



Purchase Order Financing / Inventory Loans - P O Finance solutions allow your suppliers to be paid directly by the commercial lender for large orders and contracts that your firm might otherwise not be able to finance based on the current working capital structure. Inventory financing can be a standalone finance solution or combined with various a/r and working capital solutions such as factoring.


Financing Refundable Tax Credits - For firms in Canada that utilize the federal government SR&ED program companies can cash flow their refundable credits via a SRED loan, allowing the company to recoup valuable r&d capital through the programs refundable tax credits


Supplier Credit - Many purchasers neglect to investigate the potential of supplier financing which generates cash flow given that extended payment terms delay the outflow of cash


For purchasers and businesses not focusing on a larger transaction that might have the benefit of private equity, mezzanine financing, venture debt etc it is important to consider all financing options available. Various combinations of alternative finance and traditional Canadian bank lending must be investigated.

In any type of business purchasing leverage is the ultimate double-edged sword. A solid financing package will ensure you are not over-leveraged with debt while at the same time assuming you will have operating financing facilities in place. It is exceptionally difficult to recover from over leverage in any environment, especially when sales are declining.


The bottom line? When buying an existing profitable or challenged business have a strong understanding of your opening balance sheet and the proper mix of current assets and debt. Understand the value of your hard assets and ensure you have financing in place to cover working capital needs.


Looking for a loan to buy a business in Canada? Seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor to assist you in the financing to buy an existing business.





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

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Click Here For 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL website !



7 Park Avenue Financial provides value-added financing consultation for small and medium-sized businesses in the areas of cash flow, working capital, and debt financing.



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

' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations. He is an experienced

business financing consultant

.

Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.


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


Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial







Stan Prokop
7 Park Avenue Financial/Copyright/2020

Buying A Troubled ( Or Successful !) Company In Canada? Finance Strategy 101

Revolving Loans And Business Credit Facilities In Canada

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Business credit facilities in Canada increase your firm’s ability to access the cash flow and working capital you need to run and grow your business. At the same time, the challenge of accessing these revolving loans has many firms feeling as if they are temporarily ' off the grid ' when it comes to business financing needs. Let's dig in.


Properly structured revolving loans allow your business to access credit for day to day operating facilities. In some ways they are the ultimate in flexible financing given how they are repaid, and ' revolve ', allowing you to constantly ' re-borrow ' to meet cash flow needs. It is critical to not confuse an operating line of credit with term loans, which have fixed repayment, typically on a monthly basis for anywhere from two to 5 years most often.

Interest rates are a key consideration in a revolving credit facility and rates are typically not fixed when a bank facility is in place. Alternative lenders who offer non-bank business lines of credit typically do not utilize variable rates for their facilities. At the end of the day both Canadian bank and Non-Bank lenders provide solutions that allow you to fund and replenish working capital for ongoing operations and growth. The non-bank lender will charge more for their facilities but in most cases the amount of credit they provide to your firm would typically not be available from a bank.

WHAT TYPE OF BUSINESS CREDIT LINE IS BEST FOR YOUR FIRM?

It is important to distinguish between secured Business credit facilities  as opposed to unsecured lines of credit. Typically banks and Asset Based lenders will offer a facility that is secured by the assets of the business, as well as a focus on the firm's ability to generate sales. The current assets of the firm, typically cash on hand, accounts receivable, and inventory are the main security for the majority of facilities. External collateral will often be secured under the same facility, and that will be fixed assets and real estate if applicable.

Typically the 'ABL ' ( Asset Based Lender) will offer a larger facility as their ability to understand and work with your asset based is a key differentiator in non-bank lending. They will almost always margin receivables and inventory to a larger extent than Canadian chartered banks. Their focus on the value of the assets is very different to bank lending which has a larger focus on operating cash flows, profits, balance sheet ratios, external guarantees of owners, etc.

Many facilities these days are offered under the term ' Working Captial Loans '. These facilities are in effect short term loans based almost solely on the sales of your firm. They are not tied to margin formulas around a/r and inventory, instead, loans are made based on the annual sales revenue of the business. Loans typically are based on a formula of 15-20 percent of your annual sales and are paid back on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, specifically geared to your cash inflows.

These loans are quite expensive, and around out of the MERCHANT ADVANCE industry that provided credit to retailers who to don't sell in the B2B/Business to Business marketplace. No collateral is taken on these loans, and they often rank behind any of your other secured creditors or senior lenders . The personal credit history of the owner is a key discussion point in the approval process. These ' unsecured' facilities are not really a line of credit for businesses in the true sense of the word.

TERM LOAN OR BUSINESS LINE OF CREDIT? WHAT TYPE OF BUSINESS CREDIT SOLUTION SUITS YOUR FIRM?

We've shown the differentiation of a business revolving credit facility versus short term working capital loans. The other item to consider is whether a term loan of a revolver facility is best for your firm. Term loans are typically cash loans based on the historical cash flow of the business. Loans are typically 2-5 years in length and provide a permanent cash flow injection into the business.


Qualifying for a term loan is significantly more different than a business credit line , given the credit line is focused more on the assets of the business, both current and fixed, while term loans are repaid typically monthly, over a defined period of time, based on cash flow. It would not be unusual that a business line of credit would be repaid and used many times over during the time that a term loan would be in place. So think of the credit revolver as your short term operating needs, accessing funds based on sales and asset turnover.



When firms are ' off the grid ' they are financing themselves successfully - they are business finance ' self-sufficient '. What then are the qualifications your company needs to access business credit lines, and are there choices?



Revolving loans always come down to borrower assets. This type of loan is either offered by a Canadian chartered bank, as well as independent commercial finance companies.

BANK LOANS FOR BUSINESSES

Canadian banks offering a revolving facility are focused on a credit limit that will fluctuate according to the borrowing limit. Paying that facility down regularly as you generate sales and collect receivables is key to a bank type facility. For a commercial line of credit you are only paying for what you have drawn down on the facility and interest costs decrease with less use of the facility. This allows your business to capitalize on sales opportunities.

Bank credit lines usually are margined against only inventory and receivables and margins are more conservative than asset-based lending facilities. Banks structure lines of credit as 'demand' loans callable at any time. Normally the bank facility is shown under current liabilities as typical credit lines are reviewed annually with the current liability limit of 12 months.



A bank line of credit approval has requirements that are very clearly defined, as businesses must demonstrate shareholder financial commitment and growing sales and profits, as well as the ability to produce properly qualified financials and more often than not a business plan or cash flow projection.


The two asset categories primarily driving your ability to access a business credit line are accounts receivable and inventories. While these two ' current assets' on your balance sheet can be financed separately they are best combined in either a bank credit line or commercial asset based line of credit.




Understanding the approval process is key to success in business credit lines. Factors that a bank or commercial lender will consider will be the size of your facility, the overall credit profile of the business and your ability to generate cash flow from sales to ensure the facility revolves properly. While banks might place emphasis on personal credit scores this is less so when dealing with a non-bank asset based lender .

How Does The Revolving Line Of Credit Facility Work?

The use of the business line of credit is tied to your need for funding your daily operations as they relate to working capital and cash flow, In any business sales fluctuate for a variety of reasons and expenses will not always match incoming and outgoing cash flows. The ability to draw on your line of credit facility and then replenish it as receivables are collected is the key to credit availability. Typically banks will review the facility annually, sometimes more often and ongoing credit will be based on sales and the circumstances around your financial performance as they relate to profits and cash flow generation.



Companies can in a way almost pre-determine their qualified credit line borrowing amount. That's because both the banks and commercial finance firms lend between 75-90% against receivables and specific percentages against inventory. While not all companies carry inventory these days it's important to note for those that do the actual quality and marketability of the inventory play a key role in assigning a borrowing percentage.



Companies who do best in accessing business credit lines from banks or finance companies typically demonstrate that they can ' turn over' assets - specifically collect their receivables and generate inventory turns. That type of positive operating performance distinguishes many firms who successfully can access revolving business credit facilities.



Rates and financing costs associated with revolving loans vary. While the lowest cost and flexibility is associated with banks the non-bank commercial asset based financing industry almost always address the needs of borrowers with assets, albeit at a higher cost.



In today’s competitive financing market many ' niche ' subsets of business credit facilities exist. These potential alternate solutions include:



P O Financing

Tax Credit Finance

Letters of Credit

Royalty Financing


Business owners and financial managers should review the need for a credit line facility as the requirement to bridge the cash flow gap in your cash conversion cycle - helping you fund the working capital needed as a dollar flows through your business in different timelines.



If your firm wants to get ' back on the grid ' when it comes to commercial borrowing needs seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can help your firm identify best financing solutions.





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

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Click Here For 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL website !



7 Park Avenue Financial provides value-added financing consultation for small and medium-sized businesses in the areas of cash flow, working capital, and debt financing.



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

' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations. He is an experienced

business financing consultant

.

Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.


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


Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial







Stan Prokop
7 Park Avenue Financial/Copyright/2020

Revolving Loans Business Credit Facilities 7 Park Avenue Financial

Business Loans For Debt Refinance And Business Refinancing

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Back To Basics In Company Restructuring For Cash Flow

Business refinancing .. its a fact that business loans and debt refinance via commercial loans must be reexamined to ensure new or better financing is in the best interests of your current business position.

WHY COMPANIES CONSIDER BUSINESS DEBT RESTRUCTURE ?

Your company might be considering a reorganization of its debt obligations via corporate refinancing ; in some cases that might mean totally or partially replacing debt or other times a full restructuring of the business. Naturally the main reason to consider such an effort is to improve the overall financial position and capital structure of the company.

It might mean a better overall interest rate and cost of funds. Rates have consistently dropped and remain low so companies doing well can certainly benefit from the low rate environment in loan refinancing.


Leveraging the owned assets in your business can also provide significant collateral liquidity . This can be accomplished by a sale leaseback process for both fixed assets and real estate. Those funds can be used to pay down debt or put back into the company for projects around marketing and research and development. Business owners should be reminded that investments in r&d capital tax credits can be financed for working capital under a SR&ED Tax credit loan. Refinancing a premise you own via a commercial mortgage refinance is a classic business refinancing strategy, notwithstanding the fact these assets are often held in a related company .


In other cases it might be ' credit driven ' - allowing you to consider other more flexible financing options. Suffice to say that in many cases these days, pandemics included, it's a case of fixing the business that might be exhibiting some sort of distress. The ability to complete a loan refinancing successfully typically will deliver more cash and working capital to the business for daily operations and long term success.

While it is not always about ' the rate ' when it comes to the refinancing of debt it is safe to say that firms doing better do have the options of a refinance strategy that will allow a lower cost of funds. That typically can lead to more growth opportunities when restructured loans are well thought out and executed properly.

Naturally, most refinancing of loan opportunities also have different costs attached to the process, and it's important to consider those. Those refinancing costs might include the fees of business advisors, lawyers, and accountants, that ultimate business triumvirate! In certain cases, certainly when including real estate in the mix up to date appraisals might be required, as well as early prepayment penalties being considered.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING IN CORPORATE RESTRUCTURING

At 7 Park Avenue Financial our experience in working on restructuring and refinancing transactions has taught us that one ' cost ' of refinancing is the amount of time and management involvement in working through the whole process. It is certainly not unusual for a positive restructure to take at least a few months that might include the preparation of business plans, cash flow forecasts, lender negotiations, due dilgence, and on it goes!



KEY POINT?  Allow time for the process of restructuring Loans



The greatest cost of corporate debt restructuring is the time, effort, and money spent negotiating the terms with creditors, banks, vendors, and authorities. The process can take several months and entail multiple meetings.


As we have noted, it's not always ' doom and gloom ' in the refinance process. Companies doing well might be facing strong growth challenges, or in some cases addressing seasonal or one time large orders and contracts. In many situations, a company can avoid taking on long term debt in the financing of large orders and contracts by considering purchase order financing and A/R financing solutions. Leverage sales via those latter two solutions avoid costly and time consuming refinance, so the ability to proactively analyze your needs carefully is key .

An examination of your financials with the help of your accountant or advisor should be able to pinpoint the right solution, and here cash flow forecasting is key.




Certain external events might also lead to a refinance process - that could be an owner equity infusion or perhaps a large receipt of funds from, for example, a customer. An owner equity infusion, as we have referenced above has the effect of improving debt to worth ratios and making other refinancing more possible. The ability to combine loans or extend terms can have a very positive effect on cash flow.




While we have discussed many of the positive aspects of a business refinance there are numerous circumstances that may have placed a company in some level of distress. A formal or informal organization might be required, if only for the sake of keeping a company in business. It's at this time that careful thought and time must be given to negotiating with banks and other secured creditors.

The focus now becomes reducing debt, achieving an interest rate and cost of funds that a company can live with, and ensuring terms match the long term prospects of the company. Although rare in some cases certain creditors may be persuaded to forgive debt or take some sort of ownership or warrant position in the business. The ability to save a company from any sort of formal bankruptcy or receivership becomes the total focus of management and their advisor.

PREPARING THE TURNAROUND REFINANCING PLAN


Various problems precipitate a turnaround requirement, falling sales and negative cash flows and losses are near the top of the list. Therefore being able to pinpoint the key sources of the need for restructuring is critical. As you and your mgmt and advisor put forth the right turnaround it's essential to be able to provide key documents to interested or vested parties.

Key parts of your package should include:

Mgmt analysis of the problem/solution

Historical and interim financial statements

Cash flow forecast/business plan

Details on secured creditors/collateral held

Aged Payables / Receivables

Personal financials of shareholders/owners

Having that type of package in place allows your restructuring to be viewed positively from a viewpoint of being prepared.

In certain cases your firm might be in the Special Loans section of your banks restructuring unit ; working with a bank through a forbearance agreement when your demand loan is called will often require the expertise of an experienced Canadian business financing advisor.




Changes will always occur in your business and owners and financial mgrs must evaluate the cash flow and debt position of the company.

So what some of those reasons that loans are refinanced, or new financing structure is brought into the company? In some cases certain gains in the value of assets of the business allow owners to take out equity, or in some cases totally ' cash out '. Current management might be focusing on a management buyout or some form of succession planning might be taking place when you redo or consolidate loans.

Interest rates play a key factor in business refinancing - in a perfect world rates might have declined and allowed your business to refinance under better terms. In other circumstances loans are refinanced to either reflect a more positive cash flow - or more often than not new credit lines are required to reflect the growing need for working capital due to higher sales, larger contracts, etc.

In many cases merger and acquisition opportunities arise. Here loans are combined, and new financing structures might be introduced to reflect positive financial statements for the combined business.

Currently there is large popularity around short term working capital loans, allowing companies to generate immediate cash needs without taking on the burden of significant long term debt. Lease financing is often restructured to reflect the useful life of assets, which can either depreciate or appreciate based on the nature of the asset.

On occasion the actual business owners may wish to address personal guarantees that are in place around current debt guaranteed by the business owner.

If there is a bottom line on a company's ability to refinance business loans it's simply that each industry and company has different financing needs, and those needs change over time. That covers the gamut from financing distress to high growth.

IS REFINANCING REALLY THE SOLUTION ?

In numerous instances a simple amendment to existing debt might be a logical and simpler solution; augmented by additional cash flow financing via solutions such as non-bank asset based lines of credit, short term working capital loans, including easy cash flow solutions such as accounts receivable financing, factoring, etc. At 7 Park Avenue Financial our most recommended solution in this area is Confidential Receivable Financing , allowing you to bill and collect your own receivables and turn them into instant same day cash.



A detailed analysis of your company's overall financing structure will often point to the need to refinance. Those all important loan covenants or guarantees need to be reviewed to ensure proper refinancing action can be taken.

We can therefore say that refinancing or restructuring debt in some cases can be viewed as an opportunity, so speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor with a track record of success.





Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial






Stan Prokop
7 Park Avenue Financial/Copyright/2020

Business Purchase Finance And Takeover Financing Solutions In Canada

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Information on buyout financing in Canada, including due diligence and financing strategies to complete a successful acquisition and takeover financing.

How To Get A Loan To Buy A Business In Canada

Business purchase finance in Canada often requires some, shall we say ' deft ' takeover financing strategies when an acquisition is made. This might often include a management buyout scenario. Let's look at some of the acknowledged ' smart ' ways to buy and finance to buy an existing business. Let's dig in.

There are often great rewards when an existing business is purchased properly with the right underpinning of finance and mgmt skill - the challenge is the right loan to buy an established business.

WHY ARE YOU CONSIDERING BUYING A BUSINESS OR A COMPANY BUYOUT?

If it's an add on ( the pros often call it a ' bolt-on ' ) to your current business its obviously a solid mechanism to grow your customer base and that might even mean acquiring a competitor or a vendor with whom you do business with. When executed properly its a solid method of gaining market share, acquiring skilled staff and an infrastructure and business model that is already established. In today's Canadian business environment there is a huge transfer of wealth happening as employees consider management buy outs, businesses consider mergers and acquisitions and family successions are in full force.




Since the turn of the millennium, we have experienced the first ever large-scale transfer of businesses in Canadian history. No matter if we are talking about management buyouts, mergers/acquisitions or family successions, we have a lot more experience today than we did 15 years ago.


At 7 Park Avenue Financial we find many business purchase leads come from business brokers, real estate agents or even online listings of businesses for sale. A business purchase might also be the acquisition of a new or existing franchise.

Financing Options when Acquiring a Business - Business Acquisition Loans In Canada

Different sources of capital might be used to fund a merger or the acquisition of a target company. The overall solutions are known as your final ' capital structure '.In many cases a combination of sources of funding will ultimately lead to a successful transaction, so it's all about the right ' mix ' at appropriate terms, rates, and structure.


Certainly not rare, but typically uncommon is to use your own personal or company cash reserves to purchase a business outright - that is possible but more often than not external financing will be needed when financing acquisitions.

While it is often not considered in the early stages of business financing it will often become apparent that some form of seller financing/vendor finance is required to close the gap in your financing package. This component of your financing has numerous advantages.

Advantages of Seller Finance / VTB

Confirms sellers commitment to the new owner - viewed as a positive by commercial lenders

Assists purchaser in closing the gap in total financing required

Terms of seller financing are often flexible and creative and are sometimes referred to as an ' earn-out '


BANK FINANCING


Industry experts agree that Canadian chartered bank financing is typically available for only higher quality credits. Many larger businesses cannot be financed without the involvement of a bank of a commercial loan firm. Canadian banks place a high emphasis on reasonable personal credit history of the purchaser, industry experience, personal guarantees, and various borrowing covenants and ratios around their financing in the transaction.



Two sources of ' bank financing ' that are outside of chartered bank commercial loans are the Government Of Canada Small Business Loan program for transactions under 1 Million dollars, as well as the government's crown corporation, committed to entrepreneurs - Business Development Corporation.

These two solutions should be explored but have some specific requirements around how their business purchases are instructed. A recommended strategy for these two solutions is to work with an experienced business advisor to determine if one or both of these two ' government ' solutions will fit your business purchase plan. As a general comment we can say that both of these 2 ways to acquire a firm are very focused on hard assets such as land, buildings, fixed assets, qualifying leasehold improvements, etc.

Highly leveraged deals can also be financed successfully if the underlying assets are strong and you can demonstrate the acquisition will be able to generate cash flow to support the higher leverage in the transaction. Pure cash loans, called ' mezzanine loans ' are very focused on the past, present and future cash flows of the business. It is here where a detailed BUSINESS PLAN and cash flow projection are absolutely required. Because ' mezz ' deals are unsecured by assets it's all about the cash flow!



VALUATION

We're told by ' experts' that the financial markets are ' imperfect ' to some extent, and that's probably the case with valuing and then buying a company. Business valuations always come down to an analysis of profits, and in the valuation process your goal is to attempt to ' normalize earnings' to reflect how the new entity will perform in the future. Business valuators use what are called ' multiples ' of key data points such as profits of sales and they are critical when you considering how to buy a business in Canada.




From a ' valuation ' perspective there are of course several time tested ways to value the target firm. Naturally there are different motives for buying a business that is already doing well. (Or a business that needs to be repaired! which often presents an even greater opportunity, and risk)Those motives might be synergies, economies, faster growth, less competition, etc. Because a lot of valuation strategies are subject to opinion we've often focused more on the ' assets' in the business. Good mgmt can usually reverse any losses, grow the business, etc

Example of Multiple Valuation

If a firm generates 400,000 cash flow each year it is not uncommon in many industries for the business to sell at a 3 or 4 times multiple of that cash flow, thereby providing a potential selling price of $1,600,000.00 as an example of the 4x multiple. That suggested selling price must now constitute a financing package of your cash deposit, senior debt, operating debt, and potential seller financing.


It's the assets in the business that will allow mgmt to increases earning power if the true value of the assets is understood. In many cases a proper appraisal of assets may well be required or simply the right thing to do.



The ' hard ' assets in the business are typically equipment, technology hardware, vehicles. We also mustn’t forget leasehold improvements as a part of any firms potential asset mix.



The ' current assets ' in the business will be providing the takeover with the liquidity and asset turnover it needs to be successful. Understanding the quality and turnover of accounts receivable and inventories are key to successful takeover financing.



Note also that almost always intangible assets and goodwill are normally not financeable in the SME (small to medium enterprise) marketplace. Many firms invest in R&D, and in those cases SR&ED tax credits can be part of the financing plan. All the analysis you do in the context of what we have discussed is knowns as ' going concern ' due diligence, and may often require a final adjustment to an offer price to buy the business. All the valuation and diligence you perform will steer you to how to raise capital to buy a business.



Getting proper financial statements from the target firm is key to any financing takeover success, again keeping in mind all the ' subjectivity' that comes with every item on the balance sheet ( except cash !).

How To Acquire A Company - Acquisition Financing 101

What strategies are used to finance business purchases and mgmt buyouts in Canada? They include:

Bank Loans - When Canadian chartered banks are the senior lender in your transaction they will always require a total charge on all the assets of the company including current assets such as a/r and inventory as well as the fixed assets, including real estate.



Govt Small Business Loans (new limit = $1,000,000.00) - This program is one of two ' government sources ' of capital to purchase a business. Terms are flexible and competitive and the personal guarantee is limited. The government does not lend money directly under the program, which is administered by INDUSTRY CANADA. Instead, it guarantees a large portion of the loan to the bank who lend directly to fund your acquisition. The main requirements of the program are down payment, good credit history and industry experience in the business you are targetting to buy. The ' SBL ' loan is often the best way to complete a small business acquisition .



Asset based loans- Asset based credit lines are a key source of business purchase financing. They monetize the assets of the business into a loan which can be both term and operating in structure. The revolving portion of these facilities provided day to day working capital and are paid down as sales are generated and clients pay. ABL facilities are often key to a successful business purchase financing.


Sale leasebacks - Sale leaseback financing can generate cash on already owned and unencumbered assets

ABL Business Credit lines - these lines of credit are practical to the day to day running of the business and can combine all the assets of the company into one borrowing facility that margins receivables, inventory and equipment, as well as real estate if applicable.

Tax Credit Financing - SR&ED Tax Credits Can Be Monetized To Secure Cash Flow

A/R financing - Receivable financing is a component of asset based lending . The ability to finance business receivables is key to unlocking day to day working capital needs. The day to day cash flow needs of the business can be addressed by numerous forms of invoice financing. Our recommended solution to clients of 7 Park Avenue Financial is Confidential Receivable Financing, allowing you to to bill and collect your own receivables unlike the typical ' factoring ' model of invoice discounting.


Invoice financing is a term for arrangements that allow you to finance your business invoice receivables. It is mostly used by small businesses to improve working capital and cash flow position by meeting short-term liquidity needs. The two most used solutions are invoice discounting and factoring.

Unsecured Cash Flow Loans - Mezzanine financing

Franchise loans - Many franchises in Canada are financed under the Government Small Business ' B I L ' loan as well as a combination of equipment financing and business lines of credit.

DUE DILIGENCE

It's important to properly and quickly identify the documents and information you require to properly assess the purchase price. A typical package will include several years of financial statements and interims if available, corporate tax returns, premises lease, equipment lists, aged payable and receivables, copies of bank statements and details surrounding current secured lenders and their agreements/collateral held / covenants, etc.

The entire due diligence process should be considered with the assistance of your lawyer, accountant, and business financing advisor. Their advice can be invaluable on the overall success of your purchase. In the overall financial diligence, you should consider any cost-cutting or productivity improvements you can make to grow cash flow and profits.



It should be recognized that many business purchases might also involve assuming some of the debt the company has in place, and that new ' operating facilities' such as business credit lines will be often needed when you're considering all your acquisition financing options and structures



In many cases a combo of financing methods may well be required to ensure the right amount of debt and equity and cash flow and working capital needs to be required by the business and

Seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you in proper business purchase finance.



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

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Click Here For 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL website !



7 Park Avenue Financial provides value-added financing consultation for small and medium-sized businesses in the areas of cash flow, working capital, and debt financing.



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

' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations. He is an experienced

business financing consultant

.

Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.


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


Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial







Stan Prokop
7 Park Avenue Financial/Copyright/2020

Solving Your Technology Finance Options And Tech Funding Needs

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Technology financing options whether it be IT ( information technology ) assets or the newest kid on the block, ' cleantech ' and 'ICT', requires a combination of access to capital and solid expertise. Whether your company is an established corporation or a start-up working through that ' sweat equity ' stage you require funding for your investments in technology. Let's examine some key options and strategies in tech finance that will provide your firm with the growth potential you need.

ICT financing is both an opportunity as well as a potential risk. You want to be able to manage those risks with the assistance of a business financing expert.


Oh, and by the way, this pertains to whether you are a user or a vendor of these assets. While many look to the government for finance options that might be available at the end of the day your firm will no doubt require external financing solutions. That might be for licensing products and services or acquiring hardware and other related assets.

Companies invest capital into technology to ensure their firms are winning in today's competitive environment as well as the obvious efficiencies that come from cost reductions; that's why financing that investment properly is so important and why funding from Canadian leasing sources is so critical.

Healthcare financing has never been more in the news, pandemic issues included! Issues of cost and planning are top of mind for acquisitions. Understanding how technology provides value to health care systems is key, as is those financing arrangements around acquisitions.

CLEANTECH INNOVATION

The area of ' cleantech' is a rapidly growing area in the technology space. Companies looking to solve environmental issues often have large financing needs. Investments in computer hardware that revolve around energy or building commercial facilities are very capital intensive. Canada is ranked high in the Global Cleantech industry. For initial financing many of these firms look to private investors, angel investors, friends and family, etc.

Technology Finance Options

There are a number of ways to finance tech assets; the challenge is ensuring you have chosen the appropriate technology funding solution for all the types of tech you are considering purchasing - in some cases certain solutions may be highly inappropriate.

Business owners and their financial managers are looking for simple processes to address financing needs. They are considering issues such as upgrades, as well as the obvious costs around rates and financing costs. In some cases it might even make sense to consider a sale-leaseback financing to recover capital in your tech investments. While retaining the use of those assets cash flow is increased via the replenishment of working capital.

It seems to always come back to the capital budget process when you consider those higher cost technology investments. Those budgets need some relief for the often high ' sticker shock ' of tech investment costs. Larger projects that come with longer implementations, maintenance, upgrades needs etc require financing that meets those budget needs.

METHODS OF FINANCING TECHNOLOGY

Capital and operating leases play the main role in acquiring ' ICT ' needs. Key issues to look for in these transactions are your ability to fund progress payments to vendors and any prefunding issues that might arise with suppliers. We've noted the concept of ' tech refresh ' is a main driver in financing technologies, your ability to upgrade hardware and software as required. In some cases a ' rental program ' might make sense - there is a saying in tech that your business wants to ' use technology ', you don't want to ' own technology '.

Managed services financing is huge in the tech sector. Typically these solutions involve ' the cloud ' and are focused on larger dollar investments. Firms such as THE GARTNER GROUP advise that cloud solutions and distributed computing are among the hottest issues in tech today.

Simple flexibility around payments and invoicing should be a prerequisite in your financing discussions. These latter two issues are the mainstays of equipment leasing in Canada, as is the need to ensure you have 100% financing - no down payments required!


The GARTNER GROUP says it best , including our favourite old business adage " Cash is king. Target those items that will have a real cash impact on the profit and loss statement rather than noncash items like depreciation or amortization. For example, cost savings in cloud services have a real cash impact, as opposed to reducing on-premises software licenses or owned assets like hardware. Selling and leasing back assets can provide real cash savings as well." Source- Gartner Group




Working with the right financing expert allows your firm to properly match the duration of the financing, ie ' the term ', while at the same time ensuring you have upgrade capability if needed. That issue of ' life span ' in technology is always critical. Some companies might require laptop financing for their entire workforce - here is where information technology finance excels. Click here for more info on business leasing and technology finance in Canada.

Business owners / financial mgrs. should know that financing is available for both hardware and software. Yes, Virginia, software can be financed!

KEY POINT -  business credit line or a term loan are not required - its all about credit preservation. Upgrade capability is also very important in your preliminary discussions around your financing needs.

Financing software needs allow your company to conserve capital so a

You need to know your financing, typically via a lease, is flexible and has the ability to handle upgrades. Here the concept of a ' master lease ' is very beneficial, as schedules of new assets added on can be easily implemented. You also need to ensure that the whole issue of technological obsolescence can be addressed via matching the duration of your financing to the technical life of assets and software being financed.




Key issues that come into play are the valuation of assets, useful economic life (ouch! isn’t that an accounting term?!) and types of financing available in the Canadian marketplace.

Clearly, tech financing covers a variety of industries, we're focusing today primarily on computing and information communication technology industries, but our comments are broadly applicable to a number of other asset types.

One of the key challenges in financing technology is simply the fact that the majority of goods and services provided and utilized by your firms either depreciate rapidly or, unfortunately slowly become obsolete. There is a great analogy that tech assets are like a mine's assets, they are depleted and are 'replenished by development'. A true analogy!

Financing tech assets must take into consideration the obsolescence factor - a good example, of course, is PCs, laptops and servers which easily can depreciate 30% per annum. Creative financial arrangements around these types of assets are critical and we'll discuss that a bit also.

In certain cases your firm might be involved in developing technology versus being a user for your corporate operating needs. Financing solutions are available for the unique position your firm is in either as a user or developer.

As a user of technology owners, financial managers and their chief information officers are looking for financial creativity around acquiring assets that will be productive in the business and increase efficiencies. And no surprise to any business person that hardware, software and other ' IT ' (information technology) needs often require a significant capital investment.



Software and services, often financeable, are other solid examples of high technology assets that require specific options and strategies. These products are high gross margin to the seller and when financed properly provide both benefits to the user and profits to the vendor/lessor. Factors that drive software financing are upgrade cycles, the continued proliferation of PCs and mobile products into all facets of business, as well as the obvious productivity gains these products provide.

Tech and Solar assets can be either financed or purchased. When these assets are financed key issues for financial and credit scrutiny include interest coverage and cash flow, valuation of the technology re the type of financing desired.

In the U.S. Surprising almost half the country's employed work in IT and other emerging tech areas such as solar, wind, etc. We're quite sure Canada's numbers would be too far off that.

For computer IT assets typical lease and other financing terms rarely go over three years... it’s simply a question of the useful life of these types of assets. Solar projects require alternative strategies since they typically have a longer payback.

Financing transactions in IT and Solar industries tend to be cash flow, and not asset based when it comes to lending and financing transactions. These types of transactions clearly aren’t 'asset based lending' in its traditional form. Upgrades are common in computers, they aren’t in Solar.

It is important for both borrowers and vendors and lessor to separate financing from licensing and technology issues - the intellectual property in the asset being financed rarely if ever transfers to the borrower.

Key options and strategies in technology financing typically include operating leases, providing the user with significant flexibility. Equipment Leasing in Canada can easily handle these transactions.

FINANCING YOUR REFUNDABLE TAX CREDIT VIA A SR&ED LOAN

Thousands of firms, potentially many of them your competitors, utilize Canada's SR&ED Tax Credit program as an inventive to invest in new technologies. Typical refunds for your r&d capital investment are in the 35-40% range of your total spending. The refunds pertain to portions of your spending in salaries, consulting, materials, etc. That cash refund can be turned into immediate cash by utilizing a SR&ED financing loan to get the money earlier as opposed to waiting for the federal government refund from Canada Revenue Agency.




Your firm should strive to have a long term strategy in place that focuses on your needs and financing options in information communications technology: costs, budgets, and sources of financing when it comes to tech funding.

When either financing tech, or information communications technologies or software, consider working with an experienced, credible and trusted Canadian business financing advisor with a track record of industry success who should be selected on the basis of experience, knowledge, and references and access to financing sources you need today.




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

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Click Here For 7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL website !



7 Park Avenue Financial provides value-added financing consultation for small and medium-sized businesses in the areas of cash flow, working capital, and debt financing.



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

' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations. He is an experienced

business financing consultant

.

Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.


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









Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial







Stan Prokop
7 Park Avenue Financial/Copyright/2020