Business Finance & Loans — South Africa
Quick Answer: We broker short-term business finance from R50,000 to R5 million. Whether you need an unsecured business loan, purchase order funding, or invoice discounting, we compare offers from South Africa’s top alternative lenders to get you funded in under 3 days.
Up to R6 mil
Available Funding
24 Hours
Fastest Approval*
20+
Lenders Compared
35,000+
Successful Applications
What is business finance?
Business finance refers to various funding solutions designed to help South African companies manage cash flow, purchase equipment, fulfill large orders, or expand operations. Unlike traditional bank loans which can take weeks to approve and require extensive collateral, the alternative business finance market operates on speed and flexibility.
At New Heights Finance, we act as a broker. Instead of applying to one bank and waiting for a “yes” or “no”, you apply once with us. We match your business profile against our network of FSCA-aligned and NCR-registered partners to find the fastest approval at the most competitive rate. If you’re also looking at real estate investments, see our property bridging options.
How much can my business borrow?
For unsecured business loans, lenders typically cap funding at about 1x to 1.5x your average monthly turnover. For secured lending (PO funding, equipment), the limit is determined by the asset or contract value.
| Feature | New Heights | Traditional Banks |
|---|---|---|
| Time to funding | 24 – 72 Hours | 2 – 6 Weeks |
| Application complexity | 1 Form, multiple offers | Extensive paperwork |
| Collateral required | Often unsecured | Usually required |
| Approval rate | High | Low |
Who qualifies for business finance?
Trading History
Your business must have been actively trading for at least 6 consecutive months.
Monthly Turnover
Minimum verifiable monthly revenue of R50,000 paid into a business bank account.
Registration
Must be a registered South African entity (PTY LTD, CC) or registered sole proprietor.
How long does approval take?
We understand that in business, opportunity doesn’t wait. Our network specializes in speed. Unsecured loans are typically approved and disbursed within24 to 72 hours. Structured finance (like property or PO funding) takes slightly longer due to valuation and verification requirements, usually concluding within 5-10 working days.
Industries our partners fund
What you’ll need to apply
Business finance frequently asked questions
Do I need collateral to get a business loan?
Not always. We specialize in unsecured business loans where funding is based on your monthly turnover and trading history rather than physical assets. However, for larger amounts or specific products like equipment finance or property bridging, the asset itself serves as collateral.
Will applying for business finance affect my credit score?
No. When you apply through New Heights Finance, we run a “soft pull” or initial assessment that does not leave a footprint on your credit profile. A formal credit check is only conducted once you have accepted a specific lender’s terms in principle.
What interest rates can I expect?
Rates vary significantly based on the product, your business risk profile, and the lender. Alternative business finance is typically priced as a factor rate (a fixed cost of capital) rather than an APR. Because we broker your application to multiple lenders, we ensure you receive the most competitive market rate available for your profile.
Do you fund start-ups?
No, at this stage, our lending partners require a minimum of 12 months of active trading history with consistent revenue. We do not currently broker seed capital or pre-revenue startup funding.
Are there any initiation fees?
No. New Heights Finance never charges upfront administration or application fees. Our broker fee is either paid by the lender upon successful disbursement, or clearly outlined in your final loan agreement—never before you receive your funds.