Managing cash flow can be a challenge for SME owners in Australia. Without adequate cash flow, it can be difficult to pay bills, invest in growth opportunities, and cover expenses like salaries and rent. However, there are ways to address this problem and unlock your business’s potential for growth.

To help SMEs in Australia, we have compiled these top seven finance tips with the help of Josh Zhang, a financial services professional with eight years of experience and a CFA charterholder.

1. Find the right solution for your business

When it comes to managing your cash flow, one size does not fit all. That’s why it’s important to find a bespoke funding solution that is tailored to your specific needs. Avoid the temptation to inject personal equity into your business as a quick fix, as this is not a sustainable solution in the long run.

Instead, partner with a funding solution provider who understands your business goals and can help support your growth. Look for flexible lines of credit that can be used to pay suppliers, collect outstanding debts, and transition seamlessly between projects.

2. Steer clear of loan sharks and band-aid solutions

Loan sharks may offer quick cash with high fees, but these solutions are often short-term fixes that do not address the underlying problem. Avoid these predatory lenders and instead explore sustainable funding solutions that can help you manage your cash flow effectively.

Be wary of any financing that seems too good to be true, as it probably is. Stick with reputable funding solution providers who can offer you sound financial advice and support.

3. Leverage flexible financing options

Instead of relying on traditional loans with inflexible repayment schedules, consider flexible financing options like a line of credit. This type of financing allows you to access funds as needed and repay them on a more adaptable schedule, giving you greater control over your cash flow. Look for financing that can be used to pay suppliers, collect outstanding debt, and move seamlessly from project to project, which can help keep your business moving forward without any hiccups.

4. Partner with the right funding solution provider

Partnering with the right funding solution provider can be key to unlocking your business’s growth potential. Choose a provider who understands your unique business goals and can offer funding solutions that are tailored to your specific industry or business needs.

By working with a provider who can offer a range of options, you can find a funding solution that fits your business’s cash flow requirements and supports your growth.

At Fifo Capital, we specialise in providing tailored solutions to fit the unique needs of each client. To find out more about how we work, visit how our funding works.

5. Diversify your funding sources

Relying solely on banks for funding can be risky for your business. Banks may take a long time to provide indicative offers and may not offer the most flexible terms.

Diversify your funding sources and explore alternative options, such as non-bank lenders or crowdfunding platforms, to ensure that you have access to the funding you need when you need it. By having multiple funding sources, you can reduce your reliance on any one lender and better manage your cash flow.

6. Use a funding solution that bridges payment gaps

To effectively manage cash flow, it’s crucial to address the delay in customer payments that often poses challenges for SMEs. A funding solution that bridges this gap can provide ongoing support and ensure timely payment, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

Look for a solution that offers this essential support, so you can avoid cash flow issues that can stall your progress and success

7. Prioritise your cash flow

Don’t overlook the importance of working capital management in your business. Prioritise cash flow and regularly monitor it to identify potential problems before they become critical. Develop a cash flow forecast and update it regularly, use cash flow management tools to stay on top of your finances, and consider seeking guidance from a financial advisor to help you make informed decisions.

Takeaway

In today’s competitive business environment, managing cash flow is a crucial part of running a successful SME. By implementing these seven finance tips, SMEs in Australia can unlock their potential for growth and success.

By prioritising working capital management, exploring flexible funding solutions, and partnering with providers who understand their business goals, SMEs can proactively address their cash flow problems and create a sustainable path for growth.

Avoiding loan sharks and slow banks and choosing solutions that can bridge payment gaps can also help SMEs to manage their cash flow effectively and seize opportunities for growth.

By taking these steps, SMEs can optimise their financial strategies and unlock their full potential for success.

For more tips from the Fifo Capital team, read our COO, Simon Suggett’s guide to understanding the importance of credit and risk management.

About Josh Zhang

Josh Zhang is a BDM at Fifo Capital. He has a deep understanding of financial concepts and is passionate about helping SMEs in Australia solve their working capital problems to unlock growth potential. Josh has a proven track record of providing valuable financial advice and solutions to businesses of all sizes. If you’re facing working capital problems in your business, talk to Josh to get the financial advice you need for success.