It Wasn't Just A Catchy Headline

In September 2020, Express Business Funding (EBF) introduced a new trade finance solution. This was to help Canadian importers with their growing needs. Branded as a “game changer,” the product quickly gained attention. It received over $60 million in funding applications and four client approvals in just one month.

This case study looks at how EBF combined financial innovation with real-world knowledge of trade professionals. This approach changed the traditional purchase order financing model and led to quick success for clients.

Challenges: Outdated PO Financing Models Holding Back Growth

Canadian importers were often boxed into rigid and outdated PO financing arrangements, facing:

• Mandatory collateral or security
• Limited financial terms and short repayment windows
• Forced drop-shipment to end users
• Minimal flexibility around supplier relationships
• Pressure to factor every Canadian invoice

These rigid models held back business growth. They strained cash flow and made it hard to scale operations. They also limited negotiations with international suppliers.

Solution: Trade Finance with Built-In Flexibility and Expertise

EBF’s solution, backed by a network of global trade professionals, was built from the ground up to serve the modern importer. It provided access to alternative financing with features designed to unlock both growth and confidence:

✅ No security or collateral required

✅ Only a 20% deposit up front—covered through asset financing

✅ Extended 120-day payment terms post-purchase

✅ Importers retain control—no drop-shipment restrictions

✅ No obligation to use a factoring product, but it’s available to boost liquidity

✅ EBF’s international financial network helps refine supplier terms and negotiate smarter deals

By enabling financial flexibility, this solution supported smoother transactions, stronger supplier relationships, and a path to scalable success.

Results: Business Growth Unlocked Through Strategic Trade Funding

Just weeks after launch, the results spoke for themselves:

• 💼 4 importer clients approved
• 🌍 $60M+ USD in trade funding applications
• 📈 Clients positioned to double their business capacity
• 🚀 Increased business liquidity and faster fulfillment cycles

💬 “Using your product, I can instantly double my business.” — EBF Trade Finance Client

Clients were able to increase orders, build better vendor relationships, and manage cash flow more easily. They did this without the challenges of traditional PO financing.

Services Used: Alternative Finance Through Trade and Factoring Products

This case showcases the power of combining flexible funding strategies:

• Trade Finance – covering upfront international purchase costs with delayed repayment
• Factoring Product (optional) – to create a “cash bubble” and boost working capital

These offerings are part of EBF’s larger alternative finance model. They provide quick, flexible, and scalable support for importers.

Conclusion: A Smarter Financial Strategy for Importers

By eliminating the friction in traditional PO financing and injecting financial innovation into the trade funding process, EBF redefined what’s possible for Canadian importers.

If your business is expanding its supplier network, Express Business Funding can help. They offer tools, knowledge, and support. This will assist you in achieving better financial terms for your next stage of growth.

Need Help Financing Your Imports?

Talk to EBF about how our trade finance and factoring products can power your financial strategy and unlock new opportunities for your business.