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Press Release: Versant Funds $3 Million Transaction | Housewares

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PRESS RELEASE: Versant Funds $3 Million Non-Recourse Factoring Facility to Housewares Designer & Distributor

Press Release: Versant Funds $3 Million Non-Recourse Factoring Facility to Housewares Designer & Distributor

Press Release: (March 25, 2025)  Versant Funding LLC is pleased to announce it has funded a $3 Million non-recourse factoring facility to a company which designs and distributes housewares through major grocery and retail channels.

This business was having trouble fulfilling new orders due to funding restrictions put in place by their current factoring company.  An advance against all outstanding accounts receivable was needed to provide the cash to meet product demand and that is what Versant was able to offer. In addition, Versant was able to pay off and consolidate a number of other loans that had been taken out by the business.

Press Release: Versant provided more funding than company’s current factor while consolidating outstanding debt, allowing them to meet customer demand for their popular and growing product line.

“Versant’s factoring program was a great match for this business that was continuing its recovery from pandemic-era disruptions,“ according to Chris Lehnes, Business Development Officer for Versant Funding, and originator of this financing opportunity. “Because our approach to factoring focuses solely on the quality of accounts receivable without imposing customer-concentrations limits, we were able to provide our new client more funding than their existing factor, allowing the business to better serve its customers.”

About Versant Funding Versant Funding’s custom Non-Recourse Factoring Facilities have been designed to fill a void in the market by focusing exclusively on the credit quality of a company’s accounts receivable. Versant Funding offers non-recourse factoring solutions to companies with B2B or B2G sales from $100,000 to $10 Million per month. All we care about is the credit quality of the A/R.

To learn more contact: Chris Lehnes| 203-664-1535 | clehnes@VersantFunding.com

Press Release Podcast Discussion:

Versant Funding Transaction Study Guide for Press Release

Key Concepts to Understand our latest Press Release:

  • Factoring: The process of selling a company’s accounts receivable (invoices owed by customers) to a third party (the factor) at a discount to obtain immediate cash.
  • Non-Recourse Factoring: A type of factoring where the factor assumes the risk of the accounts receivable not being paid due to the customer’s financial inability to pay. If the invoice is not paid for a reason other than a dispute between the client and their customer, the factor bears the loss.
  • Accounts Receivable (A/R): Money owed to a company by its customers for goods or services that have been delivered or used but not yet paid for.
  • Funding Restrictions: Limitations placed on the amount of money a company can access, often by lenders or existing financial partners.
  • Advance Rate: The percentage of the face value of the accounts receivable that the factor provides to the client upfront.
  • Customer Concentration Limits: Restrictions imposed by some factoring companies on the percentage of a client’s total accounts receivable that can come from a single customer.
  • B2B (Business-to-Business): Transactions conducted between businesses.
  • B2G (Business-to-Government): Transactions conducted between businesses and government entities.

Quiz:

  1. What is the primary service that Versant Funding LLC provides, as highlighted in the press release?
  2. Specific type of factoring facility did Versant Funding provide to the housewares designer and distributor? What does this imply about the risk associated with unpaid invoices?
  3. According to the press release, what was the main financial challenge faced by the housewares distributor before partnering with Versant Funding?
  4. How did Versant Funding’s approach to factoring differ from the housewares distributor’s previous factoring company, allowing them to provide more funding?
  5. What does the term “advance against all outstanding accounts receivable” mean in the context of this press release?
  6. Besides providing an advance on receivables, what other financial action did Versant Funding take for the housewares distributor?
  7. Who is Chris Lehnes, and what is his role in the transaction described in the press release?
  8. What is Versant Funding’s target market in terms of the types and volume of sales their clients typically have?
  9. Explain the significance of Versant Funding focusing “solely on the quality of accounts receivable.”
  10. What is the dollar amount of the non-recourse factoring facility funded by Versant Funding in this specific transaction?

Answer Key:

  1. Versant Funding LLC primarily provides non-recourse factoring facilities to businesses. This involves purchasing a company’s accounts receivable at a discount to provide them with immediate cash.
  2. Versant Funding provided a $3 million non-recourse factoring facility. This means that Versant Funding assumes the risk if the housewares distributor’s customers are unable to pay their invoices (for reasons other than disputes).
  3. The main financial challenge was funding restrictions imposed by their previous factoring company, which prevented them from fulfilling new customer orders due to a lack of available cash flow.
  4. Versant Funding focuses solely on the credit quality of the accounts receivable and does not impose customer-concentration limits, unlike the previous factor, allowing them to provide more funding based on the total value of good invoices.
  5. An “advance against all outstanding accounts receivable” means that Versant Funding provided the housewares distributor with an upfront payment based on a significant portion of the total amount owed to them by their customers.
  6. In addition to providing an advance on receivables, Versant Funding also paid off and consolidated a number of other loans that the housewares business had previously acquired.
  7. Chris Lehnes is a Business Development Officer for Versant Funding and the originator of the $3 million non-recourse factoring financing opportunity for the housewares distributor.
  8. Versant Funding targets companies with B2B or B2G sales ranging from $100,000 to $10 million per month, emphasizing the quality of their accounts receivable.
  9. Focusing solely on the quality of accounts receivable means that Versant Funding’s lending decisions are primarily based on the creditworthiness of the housewares distributor’s customers, rather than solely on the financial health of the distributor itself.
  10. The dollar amount of the non-recourse factoring facility funded by Versant Funding for the housewares designer and distributor was $3 million.

Essay Format Questions:

  1. Discuss the benefits of non-recourse factoring for a business experiencing rapid growth or recovering from financial disruptions, using the housewares distributor in the press release as an example.
  2. Compare and contrast traditional bank loans with non-recourse factoring as sources of working capital for a business. What factors might lead a company to choose factoring over a loan?
  3. Analyze the significance of Versant Funding’s emphasis on the “quality of accounts receivable” and its lack of “customer-concentration limits” in the context of providing flexible financing solutions.
  4. Based on the information provided, evaluate how factoring can help a business overcome funding restrictions and improve its ability to meet customer demand.
  5. Explain the roles and responsibilities of a factoring company like Versant Funding and a business development officer like Chris Lehnes in facilitating a factoring transaction.

Glossary of Key Terms:

  • Accounts Receivable (A/R): The total amount of money owed to a company by its customers for goods or services that have been delivered or used but not yet paid for; essentially, unpaid invoices.
  • Advance Rate: The percentage of the face value of an invoice that a factoring company pays to its client upfront. The remaining amount, minus fees, is paid when the customer pays the invoice.
  • B2B (Business-to-Business): A business model where companies primarily sell products or services to other businesses rather than directly to consumers.
  • B2G (Business-to-Government): A business model where companies primarily sell products or services to government agencies or entities.
  • Factoring: A financial transaction in which a business sells its accounts receivable (invoices) to a third party (the factor) at a discount to obtain immediate cash flow.
  • Funding Restrictions: Limitations or constraints on the amount of capital a business can access from lenders or other financial sources.
  • Non-Recourse Factoring: A type of factoring agreement where the factor assumes the credit risk associated with the accounts receivable. If the customer fails to pay due to insolvency, the factor bears the loss (provided there are no disputes regarding the goods or services).
  • Working Capital: The difference between a company’s current assets (such as cash, accounts receivable, and inventory) and its current liabilities (such as accounts payable and short-term debt). It represents the liquid assets available to fund day-to-day operations.

Executive Summary:

This press release announces that Versant Funding LLC has provided a $3 million non-recourse factoring facility to a housewares designer and distributor. The client was facing funding restrictions from their previous factoring company, hindering their ability to fulfill new orders driven by strong product demand and recovery from pandemic-era disruptions. Versant Funding’s solution provided the necessary advance against all outstanding accounts receivable to meet this demand and also enabled the consolidation of other existing loans. A key differentiator highlighted by Versant is their focus solely on the quality of accounts receivable without imposing customer concentration limits, allowing them to offer more funding than the previous factor.

Main Themes and Important Ideas/Facts:

  1. Versant Funding Provided a $3 Million Non-Recourse Factoring Facility: The core announcement is the successful funding of a significant factoring agreement. The term “non-recourse” is crucial, indicating that Versant assumes the risk of non-payment on the factored invoices, provided the debt was valid at the time of purchase.
  • Quote: “Versant Funding LLC is pleased to announce it has funded a $3 Million non-recourse factoring facility to a company which designs and distributes housewares through major grocery and retail channels.”
  1. Client Profile: Housewares Designer and Distributor: The recipient of the funding is identified as a company involved in both the design and distribution of housewares, operating through major grocery and retail channels. This suggests a business with potentially large and diverse customer relationships.
  • Quote: “…a company which designs and distributes housewares through major grocery and retail channels.”
  1. Addressing Funding Restrictions and Growth Opportunities: The client was experiencing limitations with their previous factoring arrangement, preventing them from capitalizing on new order demand. Versant’s funding directly addressed this constraint.
  • Quote: “This business was having trouble fulfilling new orders due to funding restrictions put in place by their current factoring company.”
  • Quote: “An advance against all outstanding accounts receivable was needed to provide the cash to meet product demand and that is what Versant was able to offer.”
  1. Consolidation of Existing Debt: Beyond providing working capital, Versant’s facility also enabled the client to streamline their financial obligations by paying off and consolidating other loans. This suggests a more comprehensive financial solution was provided.
  • Quote: “In addition, Versant was able to pay off and consolidate a number of other loans that had been taken out by the business.”
  1. Versant’s Differentiated Approach: Focus on A/R Quality and No Customer Concentration Limits: A key selling point for Versant is their unique approach to factoring, which prioritizes the creditworthiness of the accounts receivable itself and does not restrict funding based on the concentration of a client’s customers. This was the primary reason they could offer more funding than the previous factor.
  • Quote: “Because our approach to factoring focuses solely on the quality of accounts receivable without imposing customer-concentrations limits, we were able to provide our new client more funding than their existing factor, allowing the business to better serve its customers.”
  1. Context of Post-Pandemic Recovery: The transaction is framed within the context of the client’s ongoing recovery from disruptions caused by the pandemic, highlighting the role of flexible financing in supporting business resilience.
  • Quote: “Versant’s factoring program was a great match for this business that was continuing its recovery from pandemic-era disruptions,“
  1. Versant Funding’s Market Positioning: The “About Versant Funding” section clarifies their niche: providing custom non-recourse factoring facilities to B2B or B2G companies with monthly sales ranging from $100,000 to $10 Million, with a singular focus on the quality of their accounts receivable.
  • Quote: “Versant Funding’s custom Non-Recourse Factoring Facilities have been designed to fill a void in the market by focusing exclusively on the credit quality of a company’s accounts receivable.”
  • Quote: “All we care about is the credit quality of the A/R.”

Key Takeaways:

  • Versant Funding successfully provided a $3 million non-recourse factoring facility to a growing housewares distributor facing funding constraints.
  • The transaction enabled the client to fulfill new orders, consolidate existing debt, and improve their overall financial position.
  • Versant Funding differentiates itself through its focus on accounts receivable quality and the absence of customer concentration limits, allowing for potentially greater funding availability compared to traditional factors.
  • This deal highlights the role of factoring as a flexible financing solution for businesses experiencing rapid growth or navigating post-disruption recovery.

How Small Businesses Succeed with Factoring in 2025

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Quick cash for small businesses using AR Factoring

Running a small business comes with a host of financial challenges, and cash flow management is often at the top of the list. Many businesses struggle with delayed payments from customers, leading to cash shortages that can hinder operations, payroll, and growth. One effective financial solution to this problem is accounts receivable factoring.

How Accounts Receivable Factoring Can Help Your Small Business Thrive

What Is Accounts Receivable Factoring?

A financing method where a business sells its outstanding invoices to a company at a discount. In return, the business receives an immediate cash advance—typically 70% to 90% of the invoice value. Once the customer pays the invoice, the factoring company releases the remaining balance, minus a small fee.

Unlike traditional bank loans, factoring does not create debt on the company’s balance sheet. Instead, it allows businesses to leverage their existing receivables to maintain a steady cash flow.

How Factoring Can Benefit Your Small Business

1. Improved Cash Flow

One of the primary advantages of factoring is that it provides businesses with immediate access to working capital. Instead of waiting 30, 60, or even 90 days for customers to pay their invoices, businesses can convert receivables into cash quickly.

2. Easier Access to Funding

Unlike loans or lines of credit that require extensive financial documentation and strong credit history, factoring is based primarily on the creditworthiness of your customers. This makes it a viable option for startups and small businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing.

3. No Additional Debt

Because factoring involves selling an asset (accounts receivable) rather than borrowing money, it does not add debt to your balance sheet. This keeps financial ratios healthy and preserves borrowing capacity for other needs.

4. Outsourced Accounts Receivable Management

Many factoring companies offer additional services such as credit checks on customers and collections management. This can save small businesses time and effort, allowing them to focus on operations and growth rather than chasing payments.

5. Flexibility and Scalability

Factoring is not a one-size-fits-all solution; businesses can choose which invoices to factor based on their cash flow needs. Moreover, as a company grows and generates more invoices, the amount of funding available through factoring increases, making it a scalable financing option.

Is Factoring Right for Your Business?

Can be a valuable tool for businesses that:

  • Experience cash flow gaps due to slow-paying customers.
  • Have a strong volume of receivables from creditworthy clients.
  • Need fast access to working capital without taking on additional debt.
  • Want to outsource invoice collection and credit management.

However, it’s important to consider the costs involved. Fees can range from 1% to 5% per month, depending on factors like invoice value, customer creditworthiness, and industry risk. Businesses should compare different factoring companies to find the best terms and ensure that factoring aligns with their financial strategy.

Lastly…

It is a powerful financial tool that can help small businesses bridge cash flow gaps, reduce financial strain, and fuel growth. By leveraging unpaid invoices, businesses can access the capital they need to stay competitive without the burden of debt. For many small business owners, factoring can be the key to maintaining stability and seizing new opportunities in an unpredictable economic landscape.

Contact Factoring Specialist Chris Lehnes to learn if your client is a fit

Chris Lehnes | 203-664-1535 | clehnes@chrislehnes.com

New Podcast Episode – Factoring – A Non-Recourse Financing Alternative

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New Podcast Episode – Factoring – A Non-Recourse Financing Alternative

New Podcast Episode - Factoring - A Non-Recourse Financing Alternative

The presentation targets individuals who work with businesses that may have difficulty securing traditional financing. The core message is that factoring provides a viable alternative for companies with strong receivables (invoices owed by their customers), especially those who don’t qualify for conventional loans. Key Themes and Concepts: Factoring Defined: Factoring is presented as the sale of a company’s accounts receivable to obtain working capital, not a loan. Versant offers a “non-recourse full notification” program. This means: Sale of Receivables: Versant buys the receivables, taking ownership of the debt owed to the client. Notification: The client’s customers (account debtors) are notified to pay Versant directly. Non-Recourse: Versant assumes the credit risk if the client’s customers fail to pay (except in cases of defective product or service). “We also take on all the credit risk of non-payment of those customers.” Why Factoring? Factoring is positioned as a solution for businesses that are “unbanked” or have been turned down by traditional lenders (banks) and often even by other factoring companies. “All of our clients in person have been turned down by banks and in many cases turned down by other factoring companies.” This typically includes companies that are: New or rapidly growing. Seasonal with fluctuating revenues. Experiencing losses or financial difficulties. Have violated bank covenants. Versant’s Ideal Client: Versant focuses on small to medium-sized companies with revenues between $1 million and $100 million. A key requirement is that their clients have “good, creditworthy” customers (account debtors). “Our analysis is on who our clients are selling to… it’s important to us that our clients customers be strong.” Customers should be corporations, municipalities, or government agencies. Versant avoids medical and construction industries due to their specialized nature. The Factoring Process: Invoice Submission: The client submits invoices to Versant for funding. Verification: Versant verifies the invoices by contacting the customer. Advance: Versant advances 75% of the face value of the invoice to the client. “We’re typically verifying by contacting the customer confirming what the invoice tells us is true and then immediately wiring seventy-five percent of the face value that invoice to our customer” Customer Payment: The client’s customer pays Versant directly. Rebate & Fees: Versant pays the remaining 25% (the “rebate”) to the client, less their fee which accrues at a rate of 2.5% for the first 30 days and .84% for each additional 10 day period thereafter. “When we receive payment well now we fold our client that remaining twenty-five percent we call it the rebate it’s the twenty-five percent we didn’t advance initially when we we funded on that invoice less our fee” Versant’s Competitive Advantages: Flexibility: Versant can handle deals that are too difficult for other factors, including those turned down by banks and other factors. “Versant’s niche is really for the most part deals that can’t get done elsewhere.” Speed: Versant can fund clients very quickly, potentially within five days of introduction if the initial information is accurate. “we can go from an introduction to a client to funding five days later” Personalized Service: Each client is assigned an account executive for personalized support and communication. Technology: Versant provides clients with online access to data about their receivables, promoting better receivables management. Non-Recourse: No personal guarantees are required from the client’s principals, which is a key differentiator from other lenders. “we do not require any financial statements…we do not require personal guarantees” Use of Factoring Proceeds: Factoring can be used for various purposes, including funding projects, fueling growth, capitalizing on inventory discounts, or managing business crises. “we’re not going to monitor we’re not going to track how our clients use the factoring proceeds but it can be any of these these bridge needs” Customer Notification: Versant uses full notification, meaning that the client’s customers are notified to pay Versant directly. Versant argues that it is a normal practice for many companies, especially the large ones that are often their clients’ customers. “factoring just isn’t the red flag that they expect…particularly when a client of ours is selling to one of the big guys…those companies are paying factors like crazy right now” Factoring’s Impact on Profit: Factoring can increase a business’s profits by allowing them to pursue incremental sales that their lack of cash flow might have prevented. “factoring will allow a business to do more revenue than it’s doing today” **podcast created with AI Assistance (https://notebooklm.google)

Contact Factoring Specialist, Chris Lehnes to learn if your client is a fit.

Factoring Study Guide – A Primer

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Factoring Study Guide – A Primer

Factoring Study Guide - A Primer

Quiz

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

  1. What is the core function of factoring, and how does it provide working capital for businesses?
  2. Describe the difference between recourse and non-recourse factoring, and what impact does it have on risk for the client and the factor?
  3. How do notification and non-notification factoring differ, and which method is more commonly associated with businesses in weaker financial condition?
  4. What are some common reasons a business might choose to use a factoring facility?
  5. What is Versant’s typical advance rate, and what happens with the remaining percentage of the invoice when it’s paid?
  6. What is Versant’s typical factoring fee structure?
  7. What are the key differences in Versant’s approach compared to other factoring companies?
  8. What types of businesses are a good fit for factoring with Versant Funding?
  9. What are the steps Versant takes when underwriting a potential new client?
  10. What are two industries Versant does not typically factor?

Factoring Study Guide – A Primer

Answer Key

  1. Factoring is the sale of a company’s accounts receivable to a third party (the factor) in order to obtain immediate working capital. This provides businesses with cash flow by turning their invoices into cash, rather than waiting for customer payments.
  2. In recourse factoring, the client is responsible for repaying the advance if their customer does not pay. In non-recourse factoring, the factor assumes the credit risk of non-payment. Non-recourse factoring generally allows businesses in weaker financial situations to be accommodated.
  3. Notification factoring means the client’s customers are notified to pay the factor directly, often with instructions on the invoice. Non-notification factoring allows payments to be made to the client through a lockbox controlled by the factor. Notification factoring is generally better suited for businesses in weaker financial condition.
  4. Businesses might use factoring for project financing, business growth, acquisition financing, bridge financing, meeting working capital needs, taking advantage of supplier discounts, navigating a crisis, or as debtor-in-possession financing.
  5. Versant typically advances up to 75% of the face value of approved receivables. The remaining 25% of the invoice, minus fees, is paid to the client when the receivable is collected.
  6. Versant’s fee is typically 2.5% of the invoice amount for each month (or portion thereof) the receivable is outstanding.
  7. Versant focuses on larger and more complex deals, provides fast service (funding within a week), and assigns an Account Executive to each client. They focus more on the credit quality of the client’s customers, and less on the overall financial strength of the business itself.
  8. Versant is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses with $1-$50 million in annual revenue that need liquidity and may not qualify for traditional bank financing, particularly those with strong customers, even with a weak financial history.
  9. Versant reviews client’s accounts receivable aging, performs a public records search for UCC filings and liens, conducts a credit review of client’s customers, and verifies receivables by calling customers directly.
  10. Versant does not typically factor for the medical and construction industries.

Essay Questions

Factoring Study Guide – A Primer

Instructions: Write a well-organized essay for each question. Your essays should demonstrate your understanding of factoring concepts and your ability to connect these concepts to the source materials.

  1. Discuss the role of factoring as a financing tool for small to medium-sized businesses, comparing and contrasting it with traditional bank financing. Consider factors such as eligibility criteria, speed of funding, and cost.
  2. Explain the benefits of a non-recourse, full-notification factoring facility for a business that is experiencing financial difficulties and how this model operates from initial referral to final payment of the factored invoices.
  3. Analyze the competitive landscape of the factoring industry, discussing the differences between smaller and larger factors and Versant’s unique positioning within that landscape.
  4. Chris Lehnes emphasizes the importance of educating financial intermediaries rather than business owners about factoring. Discuss the reasoning behind this marketing strategy and how it contributes to Versant’s success.
  5. Assess how Versant’s factoring product and approach has proven beneficial for businesses facing various challenging scenarios (including the impacts of COVID-19) and the impact it has on improving their overall profitability.

Factoring Study Guide – A Primer

New Podcast Episode – Factoring – A Vital Source of Capital for Small Businesses

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New Podcast Episode – Factoring – A Vital Source of Capital for Small Businesses

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Small Businesses face numerous challenges, among them is the ability to have access to sufficient working capital to meet the ongoing cash obligations of the business. While this need can be met by a traditional line of credit for businesses which meet all traditional bank lending criteria, many businesses do not meet those standards and require an alternative. One such option is accounts receivable factoring. With factoring, a B2B or B2G business can quickly convert their accounts receivable into cash. Many factoring companies focus exclusively on the credit quality of the customer base and ignore the financial condition of the business and the personal financial condition of the owners. This works well for businesses with traits such as: Losses Rapidly Growing Highly Leveraged Customer Concentrations Out-of-favor Industries Weak Personal Credit Character Issues Listen to this podcast to gain a greater understanding of the types of businesses which can benefit from this form of financing. To learn if you are a fit contact me today:

**podcast created with AI Assistance (https://notebooklm.google)

Contact me to learn if your client is a factoring fit:

203-664-1535

clehnes@chrislehnes.com

Factoring Study Guide

Quiz

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

  1. What is the core function of factoring, and how does it provide working capital for businesses?
  2. Describe the difference between recourse and non-recourse, and what impact does it have on risk for the client and the factor?
  3. How do notification and non-notification differ, and which method is more commonly associated with businesses in weaker financial condition?
  4. What are some common reasons a business might choose to use a factoring facility?
  5. What is Versant’s typical advance rate, and what happens with the remaining percentage of the invoice when it’s paid?
  6. What is Versant’s typical fee structure?
  7. What are the key differences in Versant’s approach compared to other factoring companies?
  8. What types of businesses are a good fit with Versant Funding?
  9. What are the steps Versant takes when underwriting a potential new client?
  10. What are two industries Versant does not typically factor?

Answer Key

  1. Factoring is the sale of a company’s accounts receivable to a third party (the factor) in order to obtain immediate working capital. This provides businesses with cash flow by turning their invoices into cash, rather than waiting for customer payments.
  2. In recourse , the client is responsible for repaying the advance if their customer does not pay. In non-recourse factoring, the factor assumes the credit risk of non-payment. Non-recourse generally allows businesses in weaker financial situations to be accommodated.
  3. Notification means the client’s customers are notified to pay the factor directly, often with instructions on the invoice. Non-notification allows payments to be made to the client through a lockbox controlled by the factor. Notification factoring is generally better suited for businesses in weaker financial condition.
  4. Businesses might use for project financing, business growth, acquisition financing, bridge financing, meeting working capital needs, taking advantage of supplier discounts, navigating a crisis, or as debtor-in-possession financing.
  5. Versant typically advances up to 75% of the face value of approved receivables. The remaining 25% of the invoice, minus fees, is paid to the client when the receivable is collected.
  6. Versant’s fee is typically 2.5% of the invoice amount for each month (or portion thereof) the receivable is outstanding.
  7. Versant focuses on larger and more complex deals, provides fast service (funding within a week), and assigns an Account Executive to each client. They focus more on the credit quality of the client’s customers, and less on the overall financial strength of the business itself.
  8. Versant is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses with $1-$50 million in annual revenue that need liquidity and may not qualify for traditional bank financing, particularly those with strong customers, even with a weak financial history.
  9. Versant reviews client’s accounts receivable aging, performs a public records search for UCC filings and liens, conducts a credit review of client’s customers, and verifies receivables by calling customers directly.
  10. Versant does not typically factor for the medical and construction industries.

Essay Questions

Instructions: Write a well-organized essay for each question. Your essays should demonstrate your understanding of factoring concepts and your ability to connect these concepts to the source materials.

  1. Discuss the role of factoring as a financing tool for small to medium-sized businesses, comparing and contrasting it with traditional bank financing. Consider factors such as eligibility criteria, speed of funding, and cost.
  2. Explain the benefits of a non-recourse, full-notification factoring facility for a business that is experiencing financial difficulties and how this model operates from initial referral to final payment of the factored invoices.
  3. Analyze the competitive landscape of the factoring industry, discussing the differences between smaller and larger factors and Versant’s unique positioning within that landscape.
  4. Chris Lehnes emphasizes the importance of educating financial intermediaries rather than business owners about factoring. Discuss the reasoning behind this marketing strategy and how it contributes to Versant’s success.
  5. Assess how Versant’s product and approach has proven beneficial for businesses facing various challenging scenarios (including the impacts of COVID-19) and the impact it has on improving their overall profitability.

Glossary

Account Debtor: The customer of the factoring client who owes money for goods or services rendered; also sometimes referred to as a “customer client.”

Advance Rate: The percentage of the face value of an invoice that a factor provides to the client upfront.

Bridge Financing: Short-term financing used to cover immediate cash needs while a company transitions to another source of funding or a more stable state.

Client: In factoring, the business that is selling its accounts receivable to a factor; also referred to as “seller of receivables.”

Debtor-in-Possession (DIP) Financing: A type of financing provided to a company undergoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy, enabling them to continue operations.

Discount/Fee: The amount a factor charges for providing financing, often expressed as a percentage of the invoice amount, generally applied monthly (or part thereof) that the invoice is outstanding.

Factor: The financial company that purchases accounts receivable from businesses; also referred to as “purchaser of receivables.”

Factoring Agreement: The legal agreement between a factor and a client outlining the terms and conditions of their relationship, including the fees, term of the agreement, and other obligations.

Factoring Facility: The overall agreement and set-up for the sale of invoices between the client and the factor.

Factoring Volume: The total value of accounts receivable factored, usually expressed in monthly, quarterly, or annual terms.

Full Notification Factoring: A type of factoring where the client’s customers are notified to pay the factor directly.

Non-Notification Factoring: A type of factoring where the client’s customers are not notified of the factoring relationship and continue to pay the client, who in turn, settles with the factor.

Non-Recourse Factoring: A type of factoring where the factor assumes the credit risk of non-payment by the client’s customer.

Performance Guarantee: A guarantee provided by the client to the factor, assuring that the invoiced goods/services were provided correctly and as ordered, not a guarantee of payment for the underlying invoices.

Purchase and Sale Agreement: A contract that documents the sale of a batch of invoices from a client to the factor.

Recourse Factoring: A type of where the client is liable to the factor if their customer fails to pay the invoice.

Rebate: The remaining percentage of an invoice amount (after the initial advance) that is paid to the client by the factor after the customer has paid the invoice (less the factor’s fee).

Receivables: Invoices representing money owed to a company for goods or services delivered but not yet paid for; also referred to as “accounts receivable.”

Funding for Working Capital Shortfalls

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Funding for Working Capital Shortfalls

Our accounts receivable factoring program can help businesses meet payroll or other essential obligations in as quick as a week.

Funding for Working Capital Shortfalls
Funding Working Capital Shortfalls

Factoring Program Overview

  • $100,000 to $10 Million
  • Competitive Advance Rates
  • Non-Recourse
  • No Audits
  • No Financial Covenants
  • Most businesses with strong customers eligible

We specialize in difficult deals:

  • Start-ups
  • Weak Balance Sheets
  • Historic Losses
  • Customer Concentrations
  • Poor Personal Credit
  • Character Issues
We focus on the quality of your client’s accounts receivable, ignoring their financial condition. This enables us to move quickly and fund qualified businesses including Manufacturers, Distributors and a wide variety of Service Businesses in as few as 3-5 days. Contact me today to learn if your client is a fit.
 
Chris Lehnes 203-664-1535 clehnes@chrislehnes.com

Factoring Activity – Deal Alerts – Q4 2024

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Advantages of Accounts Receivable Factoring in Q4 2024

Accounts receivable factoring has long been a strategic financing tool for businesses seeking to improve cash flow and support operational growth. As we approach Q4 2024, the relevance of factoring remains strong due to economic trends, supply chain dynamics, and evolving market demands. Here are the primary advantages of factoring in the current climate:

1. Immediate Access to Cash Flow

Accounts receivable factoring allows businesses to convert outstanding invoices into cash almost immediately, bypassing the usual 30-90 day payment terms. This liquidity is particularly valuable in Q4, as companies often face increased demand, seasonal expenses, or year-end financial obligations.

Factoring Activity - Deal Alerts - Q4 2024 - Accounts receivable factoring has long been a strategic financing tool for businesses seeking to improve cash flow.

2. Flexible and Accessible Financing

Unlike traditional loans, factoring does not require a lengthy approval process or stringent credit checks. Instead, funding is based on the creditworthiness of the business’s customers. This makes factoring an attractive option for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or companies with limited credit history.

3. Support for Supply Chain Stability

With supply chain challenges persisting in many industries, businesses may need to pay suppliers upfront to secure inventory. Factoring bridges the gap, ensuring companies can meet supplier demands without disrupting operations.

4. No Additional Debt

Factoring is not a loan, so businesses do not accumulate debt or face repayment schedules. This is particularly advantageous for companies aiming to maintain a clean balance sheet and optimize their creditworthiness as they plan for the year ahead.

5. Enhanced Focus on Core Operations

By outsourcing invoice management to a factoring company, businesses save time and resources on collections. This allows them to concentrate on growth-oriented activities, such as expanding customer bases, improving products, or streamlining operations.

6. Tailored to Economic Conditions

In Q4 2024, global economic uncertainty continues to shape business environments. Factoring offers an adaptable solution for companies managing fluctuating revenues, ensuring they remain agile in responding to market changes.

7. Strengthened Customer Relationships

Factoring companies often handle collections professionally, reducing tension between businesses and their customers. This preserves positive relationships and supports long-term partnerships. Factoring Activity – Deal Alerts – Q4 2024.

Why Factoring is Crucial in Q4 2024

As businesses navigate the complexities of Q4 2024, including seasonal fluctuations, economic shifts, and competitive pressures, factoring offers a reliable, scalable solution. Whether used as a short-term financing strategy or integrated into long-term financial planning, accounts receivable factoring empowers businesses to seize opportunities and close the year on a strong financial note. Factoring Activity – Deal Alerts – Q4 2024.

Press Release: Maintenance Company with State Contract

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Press Release: Versant Funds Non-Recourse Factoring Transaction to Maintenance Company with State Contract

Versant Funding LLC is pleased to announce it has funded a non-recourse factoring transaction to a company which provides maintenance and repair services for state-owned properties.

This business has recently won a contract with a state entity which will drastically increase revenues, but also create the need for additional working capital to cover payroll and other overhead expenses.  Versant was able to quickly put a factoring facility in place to advance cash against invoices due from the state, which will provide the company with the liquidity needed to fulfill their state contract obligations.

“Versant’s factoring program was a perfect fit for this family-owned business in need of  expansion financing,“ according to Chris Lehnes, Business Development Officer for Versant Funding, and originator of this financing opportunity. “Because our approach to factoring focuses solely on the quality of accounts receivable, we were able to provide a facility with no cap which will grow automatically as the A/R balances with the state grow.”

Press Release: Maintenance & Repair Co. w/State Contracts
Maintenance & Repair Co. w/State Contracts

About Versant Funding Press Release

Versant Funding’s custom Non-Recourse Factoring Facilities have been designed to fill a void in the market by focusing exclusively on the credit quality of a company’s accounts receivable. Versant Funding offers non-recourse factoring solutions to companies with B2B or B2G sales from $100,000 to $10 Million per month. All we care about is the credit quality of the A/R. To learn more contact: Chris Lehnes, 203-664-1535, clehnes@chrislehnes.com

Versant Funds Administrator of Adolescent Group Homes

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PRESS RELEASE

Versant Funds $1.8 Million Non-Recourse Factoring Transaction to Administrator of Adolescent Group Homes – Versant Funds Administrator

(October 14, 2024)  Versant Funding LLC is pleased to announce it has funded a $1.8 Million non-recourse factoring transaction to a company which administers group homes for adolescents who are victims of neglect and abuse. Versant Funds Administrator.

Versant Funds $1.8 Million Non-Recourse Factoring Transaction to Administrator of Adolescent Group Homes
Versant Funds $1.8 Million Non-Recourse Factoring Transaction to Administrator of Adolescent Group Homes

This newly formed business has relationships with State and County organizations to house children in need.  These entities tend to pay their invoices slowly, putting a financial strain on the business. Versant was able to quickly put a factoring facility in place to advance cash against those invoices, which will provide the company with the liquidity needed to expand into additional counties. Versant Funds Administrator.

“Versant’s offering was an excellent match for this newly formed business in need of  growth financing,“ according to Chris Lehnes, Business Development Officer for Versant Funding, and originator of this financing opportunity. “Because our approach to factoring focuses solely on the quality of accounts receivable and does not require an underwriting of our client, we were able to fund this business that would not meet the credit standards of most traditional lenders.”

About Versant Funding

Versant Funding’s custom Non-Recourse Factoring Facilities have been designed to fill a void in the market by focusing exclusively on the credit quality of a company’s accounts receivable. Versant Funding offers non-recourse factoring solutions to companies with B2B or B2G sales from $100,000 to $10 Million per month. All we care about is the credit quality of the A/R. To learn more contact: Chris Lehnes, 203-664-1535, clehnes@chrislehnes.com

Saks’ Slow-Pay of AP Negatively Impacts Vendors

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When a large retailer like Saks is slow to pay its accounts payable, it can have significant negative impacts on its small business vendors. Saks’ Slow-Pay of AP Negatively Impacts Vendors.

Saks' Slow-Pay of AP Negatively Impacts Vendors

These impacts can include:

1. Cash Flow Problems

  • Immediate Financial Strain: Small businesses often operate with limited cash reserves. Delayed payments from a major client like Saks can create cash flow issues, making it difficult for these businesses to cover their own expenses such as payroll, rent, and supplier costs.
  • Dependency on Payment Timeliness: Small vendors may rely heavily on timely payments to maintain their operations. A delay from a large retailer could mean they struggle to fulfill other orders or pay their own debts, potentially leading to a vicious cycle of financial instability.
  • Saks’ Slow-Pay of AP Negatively Impacts Vendors

2. Increased Borrowing Costs

  • Need for Short-Term Financing: To manage their cash flow, small businesses might need to take out loans or use lines of credit, which could come with high-interest rates. The cost of borrowing could eat into their profit margins, making their operations less sustainable.
  • Damaged Creditworthiness: Frequent delays in receiving payments could harm a small business’s credit rating, as they may miss payments to their own suppliers or lenders.

3. Operational Disruptions

  • Inability to Invest in Growth: Slow payments might force small vendors to cut back on essential investments in their business, such as upgrading equipment, expanding their product lines, or hiring new staff. This can stifle growth and innovation.
  • Inventory and Production Issues: Delays in payment might mean that vendors can’t purchase necessary raw materials or components, leading to disruptions in their production processes and delays in fulfilling other orders. Saks’ Slow-Pay of AP Negatively Impacts Vendors

4. Strained Business Relationships

  • Erosion of Trust: Persistent delays can erode the trust between small vendors and Saks, leading to strained business relationships. Vendors might start prioritizing other customers over Saks, or even refuse to do business with them altogether.
  • Reputation Damage: If the issue becomes widespread, Saks might develop a reputation for being a slow payer, making it difficult for them to secure favorable terms with other suppliers or vendors. Saks’ Slow-Pay of AP Negatively Impacts Vendors

5. Legal and Compliance Risks

  • Contractual Disputes: Vendors might seek legal recourse if they believe Saks is violating the terms of their contracts. This could lead to costly litigation and further strain the financial situation of small businesses.
  • Potential for Bankruptcy: In extreme cases, chronic payment delays could push small vendors into bankruptcy, especially if they rely heavily on Saks as a key customer.

6. Impact on Industry Ecosystem

  • Supplier Vulnerability: The financial distress of small vendors could ripple through the supply chain, affecting other businesses and potentially leading to supply disruptions for Saks and its competitors.
  • Market Consolidation: Smaller businesses that can’t withstand the financial strain may be forced out of the market, leading to consolidation where only larger, better-capitalized companies survive. This could reduce competition and innovation in the industry.

Conclusion

The practice of slow payments by a major retailer like Saks can have severe and far-reaching consequences for its small business vendors. It can lead to cash flow problems, increased borrowing costs, operational disruptions, strained relationships, and even legal disputes. For small vendors, maintaining financial stability in the face of delayed payments is crucial, and many may need to seek alternative financing options or diversify their customer base to mitigate these risks.