Build a business funding brief

Build a brief before speaking to lenders

A credit discussion is easier when the amount requested can be traced to a specific use. Include what you plan to buy or pay, the timing of the expenditure, and when the business expects to generate the cash to repay it. For an acquisition, distinguish the purchase price from legal costs and working capital. For a refinancing, ask for a dated settlement figure.

Gather the evidence

Start with the balance sheet, profit-and-loss account, cash-flow statement, aged debtors and current debt schedule. Record the dates of the statements. If a customer makes up much of the debtor balance, note their payment history. If existing borrowing is secured, ask who holds each charge and what consent is needed before a new facility draws down.

Keep your own copy

Enter figures directly into the worksheet. Creating a brief produces a printable document in this browser tab. It does not submit an application or send the financial figures to a lender. Return to the fields to edit them and create a fresh version. Use your browser's print destination to save a PDF.

For amounts from a term sheet, try the facility comparison. The business finance guides cover how the evidence changes with the purpose of borrowing.