How to Qualify for Business Funding in South Africa (Banks & Fintech)

1. What Lenders Really Look At

Lenders focus on three things:

• Revenue

• Stability 

• Repayment ability

They are not funding your dream — they are funding predictable income.

2. Revenue Matters More Than Profit

Lenders prefer:

• Consistent monthly income

• Predictable cash flow

• Stable customer payments

Even profitable businesses get declined if income is unstable.

📌 Learn more:

→ How to Increase Monthly Revenue & Get Funding Approved

3. Cash Flow Is Critical

Poor cash flow is the biggest funding killer.

Lenders look for:

• Regular deposit

• Controlled expenses

• Healthy account balances

• Minimal overdraft use

4. Business Structure & Discipline

Well-prepared businesses:

• Separate personal & business finances

• Pay suppliers consistently

• Avoid random cash withdrawals

• Track income properly

📌 Learn more:

→ How to Build a Fundable Business (Coming soon)

5. Common Funding Readiness Mistakes

Avoid:

• Applying during low-revenue months 

• Using funding to fix losses

• Overborrowing

• Ignoring repayment impact

6. Preparing Before You Apply

Before applying:

• Review 6 months bank statements

• Stabilize income

• Reduce unnecessary expenses

• Know exactly how funding will generate revenue

📌 Learn more:

→ How to Prepare Your Business for Funding Approval

Conclusion 

Funding approval is not luck — it’s preparation. Businesses that understand how lenders think have a far higher chance of success.

👉 Start preparing now, before you apply.