How to Prepare Your Business for Funding in 90 Days

Securing funding isn’t just about a good idea—it’s about preparation. Here’s a practical 90-day roadmap:

Days 1–30: Get Your Financial House in Order

  • Clean up your financial records
  • Ensure tax compliance
  • Prepare up-to-date management accounts

Days 31–60: Build a Strong Business Case

  • Develop a clear business plan
  • Create realistic financial projections
  • Identify your funding needs and use of funds

Days 61–90: Position for Investors/Lenders

  • Prepare a compelling pitch
  • Organise supporting documents
  • Address risks and mitigation strategies

Key Insight:
Funders invest in structured, credible businesses—not just ideas. Preparation significantly increases your chances of success.

IFRS for SMEs: A Practical Guide (Not a Textbook)

IFRS for SMEs is designed to simplify financial reporting for smaller businesses—but it still feels complex to many.

Here’s what you actually need to focus on:

1. Financial Statements That Make Sense
Ensure your statements clearly reflect your business performance and position.

2. Consistency Over Complexity
Apply accounting policies consistently rather than chasing perfection.

3. Understand Key Areas
Revenue recognition, asset valuation, and liabilities are critical.

4. Keep It Practical
The goal is useful information—not technical perfection.

Why It Matters:
Good financial reporting improves decision-making, builds trust, and prepares your business for audits, funding, or growth.

JSE Listing Requirements vs. SME Reality: What Small Businesses Can Learn From Big Corporate

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has stringent listing requirements designed for large, established companies. While SMEs may never list, there’s valuable insight to gain.

What Big Corporates Get Right:

Strong Governance
Clear roles, accountability, and oversight structures.

Reliable Financial Reporting
Accurate, timely, and transparent financial information.

Risk Management
Proactive identification and mitigation of risks.

What SMEs Can Apply:

You don’t need to be listed to operate like a listed company. Introducing basic governance, maintaining clean financial records, and managing risks proactively can significantly improve credibility.

Why It Matters:
Investors, lenders, and partners trust businesses that operate with structure and discipline. Adopting these principles early positions your business for long-term growth.

5 Cash Flow Killers Every SME Owner Ignores (And How to Fix Them)

Cash flow—not profit—is what keeps your business alive. Many SMEs fail not because they aren’t profitable, but because they run out of cash. Here are five common cash flow killers and how to address them:

1. Poor Debtor Management
Late-paying clients can cripple your operations.
Fix: Implement strict credit terms, invoice promptly, and follow up consistently.

2. Overtrading
Growing too quickly without sufficient cash reserves creates pressure.
Fix: Align growth with available cash and secure funding before scaling.

3. Excess Inventory
Cash tied up in stock limits your flexibility.
Fix: Optimise inventory levels and track slow-moving items.

4. Uncontrolled Expenses
Small, unmanaged costs quickly add up.
Fix: Regularly review expenses and cut non-essential spending.

5. Lack of Cash Flow Forecasting
Operating without visibility is risky.
Fix: Maintain a rolling 3–6 month cash flow forecast.

Bottom Line: Cash flow management is not optional—it’s a discipline. The sooner you take control, the more stable your business becomes.