As tough as your situation may seem, you still have some options.
Setting Collection Policies
Going forward, set a collection policy that you know will work in both a bull and bear market. Specifically, it would be wise to run a scenario analysis with the elements of working capital to see what terms work under various financial conditions. Many companies get too comfortable during a bull market and lose sight of certain key elements of working capital – make sure you don’t get yourself in the same situation going forward.
Option 1: Seek Strategic Partnership
This can be a tough decision to make but it is an option worth exploring if you can find a company that compliments your business.
If you can find a partner that has a strong balance sheet (i.e. cash) and a complimentary business model, perhaps you can form a partnership.
Now, there are a lot of questions you must ask yourself in figuring out the right partner such as…
1) Would a partnership help both companies financially?
2) Do the two companies have cultures that are compatible?
3) Am I comfortable giving up certain management functions to this partner?
Option 2: Seek Financial Investors
If all you need is cash, then perhaps you can raise capital by partnering with an investor who will just provide funding and take an ownership position in the company. Again, you will have to give some ownership up, but you will also have the ability to grow with fresh capital.
Option 3: Seek Further Financing Options with Banks
While your credit is poor, you may still have some opportunities to obtain financing with a bank. You may have to go to several regional and community banks to find a lender but you may find one with some suitable financing terms.
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