What is purchase-order funding?
Purchase-order funding advances money against a confirmed customer order so a business can pay suppliers and fulfil the work. It is repaid once the customer settles the resulting invoice.
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Business Finance
Working-capital and purchase-order funding for SA businesses.
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Educational content from a registered credit provider — NCR Reg: NCRCP22127 · FSP: 55648
Small and growing businesses often need funding to bridge the gap between winning work and getting paid. This section covers working-capital and purchase-order funding — how they work, when they make sense, and what funders look at. Purchase-order funding can help a business fulfil a confirmed order it could not otherwise finance, while working capital smooths day-to-day cash flow. The right structure depends on your contracts, margins and repayment timeline, and any facility is subject to assessment and the applicable credit policy.
Business Finance articles
Ndzinga insight
Business Finance6 min read
A Purchase Order Is Not Cash: map the delivery gap before you commit
A practical four-date, four-number worksheet for South African SMEs to map the cash gap between supplier payment, delivery and buyer payment.
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Ndzinga insight
Business Finance6 min read
The 6-Week Cash-Flow Runway Check: how SME owners spot a funding gap before it becomes a crisis
Most funding emergencies are gaps that were visible weeks earlier. Use this 15-minute Monday check to spot the tight week before it becomes a scramble.
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Ndzinga insight
Business Finance7 min read
The 7-file funding folder every SME should keep updated
Most funding delays start before the application form. Keep these seven documents updated so your funding conversation starts with a clearer business story.
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Ndzinga insight
Business Finance8 min read
Before You Seek Business Funding: The Cashflow Questions to Answer First
Before seeking business funding, map the timing, margin and repayment source so the conversation starts with the cashflow problem, not only the application form.
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Ndzinga insight
Business Finance6 min read
Working Capital vs Purchase-Order Funding: Which Fits Your Business?
Two common ways to fund a growing South African business solve different problems. Here is how working-capital and purchase-order funding differ — and when each fits.
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Ndzinga insight
Business Finance5 min read
Purchase Order Funding: A Lifeline for SA Small Businesses
Cash flow gaps kill more small businesses than bad ideas. Learn how purchase order funding helps SMEs fulfil orders and grow without giving up equity.
Read articleBusiness Finance — common questions
How is business funding different from a personal loan?
Business funding is assessed against the business's contracts, cash flow and the specific opportunity, rather than an individual's salary. Structures and terms are tailored to the deal.
What do I need to apply for working-capital funding?
Typically your business registration, recent financials or bank statements, and details of the contract or cash-flow need. Requirements vary by facility and are confirmed during assessment.