Bridging finance for SA businesses.
Short-term capital (30 days to 12 months) that closes the gap between a known inflow and when you actually receive it. Common SA use cases: waiting on a VAT or SARS refund, a property transfer, a confirmed contract payment, or an executor payout. Expensive per month but cheap when the bridge is short.
Is Bridging finance a fit?
Green flags
- The inflow you're bridging to is confirmed in writing (contract, tax assessment, sale agreement) — not "we're optimistic".
- You've modelled the total cost against the value of getting the cash now (discount for early delivery, saved penalty, supplier negotiation).
- You have a hard exit date. Bridging's only cheap if the bridge is short.
Red flags
- The "confirmed" payment actually hinges on another deal closing — one slip and the bridge turns into a very expensive term loan.
- You're rolling bridging into more bridging. Each roll compounds fees.
- The cost of the bridge eats more margin than the opportunity gives back.
Frank is building the bridging finance panel.
We’re actively adding lenders for this category. In the meantime, answer a few quick questions and we’ll reach out as soon as a relevant match goes live — or introduce you to adjacent options on the current panel.
Start the questionnaireFAQ
What is bridging finance in South Africa?+
Short-term capital (30 days to 12 months) that closes the gap between a known inflow and when you actually receive it. Common SA use cases: waiting on a VAT or SARS refund, a property transfer, a confirmed contract payment, or an executor payout. Expensive per month but cheap when the bridge is short.
Who does bridging finance typically fit?+
The inflow you're bridging to is confirmed in writing (contract, tax assessment, sale agreement) — not "we're optimistic". You've modelled the total cost against the value of getting the cash now (discount for early delivery, saved penalty, supplier negotiation). You have a hard exit date. Bridging's only cheap if the bridge is short.
How fast can I get bridging finance?+
Speeds vary by lender — anything from same-day to a few weeks. Frank shows you the typical decision time per lender on the panel, and your specific application can go faster or slower depending on the docs you already have in hand.
Do I need to be registered with CIPC?+
Most SA lenders want to see a registered entity (PTY or CC) that's been trading for a minimum period — usually 6-12 months, occasionally less. Sole traders have fewer options, but Frank still shows what's available.
Does Funded by Frank charge a fee?+
No. Frank is free to use for businesses. We earn a referral fee from the lender if your application is successful — that doesn't change the rate or terms you get from them.
Is Funded by Frank a registered FSP?+
No. We're a funding guide — we explain products and introduce you to lenders. We do not provide financial advice as defined by the FAIS Act. Any credit agreement is directly between you and the lender.
Other funding types
Not sure if this is the right fit? Let Frank walk you through it.
Answer a few quick questions about your business and Frank will show the funding shapes that typically fit — with the lenders who offer them.
See your funding options