Step-by-Step Application Process
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Go to the Bridgement website Navigate to https://www.bridgement.com/za/ and click "Get Funded" or "Apply Now".
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Enter your loan amount and preferred term Use the online pricing calculator to select the amount you want to borrow (from R20,000 upwards) and the repayment period (1 to 24 months). The calculator shows your total fee in real time.
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Provide your business details Enter your company name, company registration number (from CIPC), and basic contact information. Bridgement does not require a CV, business plan, or financial forecast at this stage.
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Connect your accounting software (optional but recommended) You can authorise Bridgement to securely access your Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks data. This significantly speeds up the assessment process and can result in a better rate because Bridgement has more verified data to work with.
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Submit your bank statements If you do not connect accounting software, you will be asked to upload recent bank statements (typically 6 months) directly via the secure online portal.
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Receive a credit decision Bridgement's AI-driven assessment engine typically produces a credit decision within 24 hours. In many cases the decision is faster.
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Review and accept your offer If approved, you will receive an offer showing your approved facility amount, the applicable fee rate, and the total cost. Review the terms carefully before accepting.
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Sign your agreement electronically Agreement is completed via electronic signature on the Bridgement platform — no wet ink signatures or courier documents required.
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Access your credit facility Once signed, your credit facility is live in your Bridgement dashboard. You can draw immediately or keep the funds on standby at zero cost until you need them.
What Documents Are Required?
| Document | Required? |
|---|---|
| South African company registration (CIPC) | Yes |
| Bank statements (last 6 months) | Yes (or connect accounting software) |
| Xero / Sage / QuickBooks access | Optional (but recommended) |
| Business plan | No |
| Financial forecast | No |
| Tax clearance certificate | No (not required at application stage) |
| Proof of collateral | No |
| Personal guarantee documents | No |
Why Might an Application Be Declined?
Common reasons for a Bridgement application not being approved include:
- Business has been trading for fewer than 6 months
- Annual turnover below R500,000
- Poor credit bureau record (business or director level)
- Insufficient or inconsistent bank statement data
- Business is not registered with CIPC
- Existing credit judgements or business insolvency proceedings
Tips to Improve Your Approval Chances
- Connect your Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks account — it gives Bridgement verified financial data and demonstrates transparency
- Ensure your bank account reflects consistent revenue flows
- Maintain up-to-date business registration (CIPC) and tax compliance
- Apply for an amount proportionate to your monthly revenue
Frequently Asked Questions — How to Apply
Q: How long does the Bridgement application take? The online application itself takes approximately two minutes. A credit decision typically follows within 24 hours.
Q: Do I need to submit physical documents? No. All document submission is done digitally via the secure online portal. There is no need to courier or email documents.
Q: Can a sole proprietor apply? No. Bridgement lends to formally registered companies and close corporations only. Sole proprietors and informal businesses do not qualify.
Q: Is there a fee to apply? No. There is no application fee and no obligation to use the facility once approved.
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