Trade Finance Solutions for SMEs

Trade Finance Solutions for SMEs | 5 Proven Options to Fund Orders and Manage Risk

5 Trade Finance Solutions for SMEs

Small and mid sized exporters and importers need capital that follows the order, not just the balance sheet. Below are five proven trade finance solutions that unlock supplier terms, speed cash conversion, and reduce counterparty risk. Financely structures, underwrites, and coordinates these programs with regulated partners. No em dashes are used in this document.

Snapshot: Invoice factoring, purchase order finance, standby and documentary letters of credit, asset based lending, and structured commodity finance. Clear eligibility rules, bankable wording, and reporting that keeps trades moving.

Why These Five Work For SMEs

  • They scale with orders and receivables instead of fixed assets.
  • They can be set up in weeks with the right data, contracts, and wording.
  • They move risk from counterparties into bankable undertakings and controlled cash paths.

The Five Solutions Explained

Solution How It Helps Best For
1) Invoice Factoring Sell eligible invoices to a funder and receive an advance against the receivable. Collections flow into a controlled account and the balance is released at payment less fees. B2B invoices with clear proof of delivery and predictable payment curves
2) Purchase Order Finance Funder pays suppliers against a confirmed purchase order and shipment milestones. You convert to receivables funding once goods are shipped and invoices are raised. Confirmed orders where supplier deposits or prepayment block execution
3) SBLC and DLC Solutions Standby letters of credit and documentary letters of credit provide bank undertakings for performance or payment. Wording is objective and aligned with ISP98 or UCP600 to smooth examination. New counterparties, larger orders, or buyers and sellers who require bank support
4) Asset Based Lending (ABL) A revolving facility secured on receivables and inventory with a borrowing base. Advance rates and reserves adjust with data quality and eligibility rules. SMEs with repeat trade flows and a trackable AR and stock position. Learn about ABL underwriting
5) Structured Commodity Finance Pre export, pre payment, and inventory backed lines secured by title documents, escrowed proceeds, and controlled logistics. Designed for producers, traders, and processors. Agri, metals, and energy flows with strong offtake. See structured commodity finance

How Financely Delivers For SMEs

  • Fit first: we match your order profile and counterparties to the right facility type and ruleset.
  • Bankable wording: LC and guarantee text that uses objective evidence and clear time lines.
  • Controls and reporting: lockbox or account control, data tapes, and simple stratifications that investors and banks accept.
  • Local acceptance: where possible we issue instruments through banks with presence in your region for smoother operations.

Quick FAQ

What information do you need to start
Company KYC, latest AR aging, basic GL tie out, key contracts or POs, trade flow summary, and the wording or terms requested by your counterparty.
Can these be combined
Yes. Many SMEs use PO finance to buy, then convert to factoring when invoices are issued. SBLCs can sit alongside ABL or commodity lines as required by counterparties.
How fast can we go live
Clean data and clear legal paths speed things up. Simple factoring or LC issuance can move in a short cycle. Structured lines take longer due to collateral and logistics controls.

Start Your SME Trade Finance Plan

Share your RFQ and materials. We will review and respond with scope, timeline, and a clear action plan across the five solutions.

Submit RFQ

Financely provides advisory and coordinates funding through regulated partners. We are not a bank and do not hold client funds unless a regulated custodian is appointed. All transactions are subject to KYC, AML, sanctions screening, and final credit approval. Terms and timelines vary by jurisdiction, counterparty, and collateral.

Get Started With Us

Submit Your Deal & Receive a Proposal Within 1-3 Working Days

Submit your deal using our secure intake form, and receive a quote within 1-3 business days. Existing clients can connect with their relationship manager through our secure web portal.


All submissions are promptly reviewed, and all communications are conducted through the intake form or the client portal for a seamless and secure process.

Express Application Submit Your Deal
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Request a Proposal / Submit a Deal

Thank you for considering working with us. A nominal fee of US$500 is required upon completion of each form. This fee covers the time and effort we invest in reviewing your submission and crafting a thorough proposal. We receive numerous inquiries and prioritize those that carry this fee, ensuring serious applicants receive prompt attention.

Trade Finance

Tap into solutions like letters of credit, bank guarantees, and payment facilitation. We address the challenge of global transaction risk through structured strategies that foster cross-border growth. Complete the form to unlock streamlined funding aligned with your commercial objectives.

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Project Finance

Access non-recourse funding for infrastructure, renewable energy, or other capital-intensive ventures. We mitigate capital constraints by isolating project assets and focusing on risk management. Provide your details to receive a structure that drives growth and maximizes returns.

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Acquisitions

Secure financing for business or real estate acquisitions. We ease transaction hurdles by reviewing cash flow, synergy opportunities, and exit plans. Complete the form for a customized proposal that supports your strategic investment objectives.

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For Banks

Financely assists banks facing Basel III pressures by distributing trade finance deals and providing collateral for letters of credit. We reduce capital burdens while preserving client relationships and fostering service expansion. Submit your request to optimize your trade finance offerings.

Submit a Request

Once we receive your submission, our team will review your information to determine feasibility. If eligible, you will receive a proposal or term sheet within 1–3 business days. Visit our FAQ and Procedure pages for more information.

Disclaimer: Financely provides financing based on due diligence and feasibility. Approval is not guaranteed, and past performance does not predict future outcomes. All terms are subject to review. Financely primarily assists with structuring and distribution. Qualified parties carry out the project if the client approves the proposal.

Still Have Questions? Schedule a Consultation

If you still have questions after visiting our FAQ and Procedure pages, we invite you to book a paid consultation for personalized guidance. A $250 USD fee applies per session.