Purchase Order Funding

Purchase order (PO) funding is a financial solution designed to bridge the gap between securing a large order and fulfilling it. It addresses a common challenge faced by businesses, particularly those in the early stages of growth: the lack of working capital to cover upfront costs associated with a large purchase order.

How Purchase Order Funding Works

  1. Securing a Large Order: Your business receives a confirmed purchase order from a customer for a significant amount of goods or services.
  2. Funding Gap: However, fulfilling the order requires upfront investment in raw materials, manufacturing, or other expenses. Your current cash flow might not be sufficient to cover these costs.
  3. Partnering with a Funder: This is where purchase order funding comes in. You approach a purchase order financing company and present the confirmed purchase order.
  4. Funder Pays Supplier: Based on the creditworthiness of your customer and the strength of the purchase order, the funder advances you a significant portion (typically up to 90%) of the order value. They then pay your supplier directly, enabling you to acquire the necessary materials or resources to fulfil the order.
  5. Delivering the Order: You fulfil the purchase order according to the agreed-upon terms and deliver the goods or services to your customer.
  6. Customer Pays You: Your customer pays the full invoice amount.
  7. Repaying the Funder: Once you receive payment from your customer, you settle the financing agreement with the funder. This typically involves repaying the advanced amount plus any associated fees and interest.

Benefits of Purchase Order Funding

  • Fulfills Large Orders: It allows you to take on and complete large orders that would otherwise be out of reach due to limited working capital. This can be a significant growth opportunity for your business.
  • Improved Cash Flow: By covering upfront costs, purchase order funding eases cash flow constraints, allowing you to manage your day-to-day operations smoothly.
  • Faster Growth: The ability to take on larger projects can accelerate your business growth and increase profitability.
  • Flexibility: Purchase order funding can be a more flexible alternative to traditional loans, as it is secured by the specific purchase order rather than your overall business assets.

Things to Consider with Purchase Order Funding

  • Fees and Interest: Understand the fees and interest rates associated with purchase order funding. These can vary depending on the lender, the size of the order, and your creditworthiness.
  • Creditworthiness of Your Customer: The funding is often based on the creditworthiness of your customer. If your customer fails to pay, you may be responsible for repaying the advance to the funder.
  • Suitability for Your Business: Purchase order funding is most suitable for businesses that frequently deal with large purchase orders and have established, creditworthy customers.
Purchase order funding can be a valuable tool for businesses looking to capitalize on growth opportunities presented by large orders. By understanding how it works, the benefits it offers, and the factors to consider, you can determine if purchase order funding is the right financial solution to help your business thrive.


Suggested Experts Of Purchase Order Funding

R500
Independent Consultant
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About

I have worked with SMEs and Entrepreneurs for the past 15 years in terms of funding, finance readiness, investing, and operations. Having operated on both sides (running a small business as well as financing and assisting small business) I am well-suited to guiding small businesses in starting a business, growing a business, financing a business, and optimising a business. My role is to simplify the complex world of finance for the small business owner so that they can focus.

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Founder of Ohsome Labs
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As a driven entrepreneur, I'm passionate about seeing SMEs not just survive but thrive. With experience ranging from small businesses to some of South Africa's largest corporations, I offer valuable insights into business operations. I leverage this expertise to help SMEs and entrepreneurs navigate and manage their businesses successfully. My services include product development, marketing, branding, positioning, sales, and systems automation, tailored to drive growth and success.

R490
Managing Partner at 8th Season Capital
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Thabo has over 21 years’ investment management, financials services and entrepreneurial experience in South Africa and across the African continent. He is currently Managing Partner at 8th Season Capital, a firm providing capital raising services for SMEs and startups, as well as investment advisory/management for individual and institutional investors.

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