Asset finance for South African SMEs.
Finance tied to a specific business asset — usually plant, machinery, commercial equipment or specialised tools. The lender pays the supplier directly, you repay monthly over 24–60 months, and the asset itself sits as security. The asset earns (or saves) the money that services the debt.
Is Asset finance a fit?
Green flags
- The asset has a clear commercial purpose — it lifts revenue, unlocks new contracts, or replaces an outgoing lease.
- You can show the payback maths: what the asset adds to revenue vs. the monthly instalment.
- You'd rather finance the asset than tie up working capital or a term loan with no collateral.
Red flags
- The asset depreciates faster than you can repay it (second-hand tech, niche equipment with thin resale markets).
- You need the capital this week — asset finance typically takes 2–4 weeks from quote to payout.
- The supplier requires full payment up front and won't accept lender settlement — check before committing.
Frank is building the asset 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 asset finance in South Africa?+
Finance tied to a specific business asset — usually plant, machinery, commercial equipment or specialised tools. The lender pays the supplier directly, you repay monthly over 24–60 months, and the asset itself sits as security. The asset earns (or saves) the money that services the debt.
Who does asset finance typically fit?+
The asset has a clear commercial purpose — it lifts revenue, unlocks new contracts, or replaces an outgoing lease. You can show the payback maths: what the asset adds to revenue vs. the monthly instalment. You'd rather finance the asset than tie up working capital or a term loan with no collateral.
How fast can I get asset 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