Credit made available by Banco Caboverdiano de Negócios (BCN) for entrepreneurs and small businesses

Banco Caboverdiano de Negócios (BCN) offers a wide range of financial solutions designed to support entrepreneurs, small businesses and investors in Cape Verde. These credit options are designed to meet the diverse needs of the business sector, promoting economic growth and business sustainability. Among the products available are Investment Credit, o BCN Auto Companies, o CREDIMAR and Escrow Accounteach with specific characteristics for different business purposes.

O Investment Credit is aimed at companies wishing to expand or implement new projects, and requires an economic and financial feasibility study for approval. The BCN Auto Companies facilitates the renewal of car fleets, while the CREDIMAR offers favourable conditions for projects related to maritime activities. On the other hand Escrow Account is a flexible solution for treasury management, allowing greater peace of mind in financial administration.

In order to access these lines of credit, interested parties must fulfil eligibility criteria which include submitting documents such as recent financial statements and tax returns. The application process can be initiated by contacting the NCB Customer Support or directly at one of the bank's branches. More detailed information on each product can be found at NCB's official website.

These initiatives reflect NCB's commitment to fostering business development in Cape Verde by offering diversified financial solutions adapted to market needs.

Description of NCB's Credit Programmes for Companies and Investors

Lines of Credit for Companies of Different Sizes and Sectors

Banco Caboverdiano de Negócios (BCN) offers a wide range of credit lines for companies of all sizes, from micro-enterprises to large corporations. These loans are available for various economic sectors, such as commerce, industry, agro-industry, tourism, information and communication technologies, fisheries and transport. The main aim is to encourage business development and innovation in Cape Verde.

The main types of credit include

• Young Start-up: Financial support for young entrepreneurs who want to start new businesses, promoting innovation and job creation.
• Support for Trade and Services: Financing for companies operating in trade and services, helping to expand operations or improve efficiency.
• Treasury supportCredit line designed to cover short-term liquidity needs, guaranteeing the continuity of business operations.
• Investment SupportCredit to finance expansion projects, equipment purchases or other growth initiatives.
• Support for internationalisation: Credit facilities for companies wishing to expand their operations into international markets.

More information about these credit lines can be found on the NCB's official website (NCB - Economic Financing Ecosystem).

Conditions of Admissibility for Companies and Investors

To access the NCB's credit lines, companies must fulfil certain eligibility criteria, which may vary according to the type of financing. Generally speaking, the requirements include:

1. Legal RegistrationThe company must be duly registered and in compliance with Cape Verde's legal and tax regulations.
2. Business PlanPresentation of a detailed business plan demonstrating the viability of the project to be financed.
3. GuaranteesDepending on the amount requested, real or personal guarantees may be required.
4. Financial HistoryExisting companies must present recent financial statements proving their ability to repay.
5. Additional documentationIncludes photocopies of identification documents, NIF declaration and proof of income, as indicated in the application process.

These criteria ensure that funding is granted to sound and sustainable projects. Further details on the eligibility conditions can be found on the NCB's website (BCN - Credit Solutions).

Credit Application Process

The process for applying for financing at BCN is simplified and can be initiated through different channels:

1. Online SimulationInterested parties can use the simulation tool available on the NCB website to calculate the credit conditions. This service is quick and does not require travelling to a branch.
2. Document SubmissionAfter the simulation, you need to submit the required documents, such as a completed credit proposal, ID, NIF and proof of income.
3. Evaluation and ApprovalThe NCB carries out a detailed analysis of the documents and the project. In some cases, a valuation of the property or assets to be financed is scheduled.
4. FormalisationAfter approval, the credit agreement is formalised and the funds are made available.

For more information on the process, go to the official NCB website (NCB - Home Loans).

Support for Private Investment and Entrepreneurship

In addition to the NCB credit lines, the Cape Verdean government, in partnership with the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group, has implemented the Access to Finance Project for Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs). This programme, with total funding of $25 million dollars, includes:

• Partial Credit Guarantee Fund: Facilitates access to credit for MSMEs, reducing the risks for financial institutions.
• Technical assistance: Support for companies in generating financial and operational information.
• Improving Credit Information SystemsExpansion of the coverage and depth of credit systems in Cape Verde.

Strategic Partnerships and Service Expansion

The NCB also collaborates with other financial institutions to offer innovative credit solutions. One example is the partnership with Banif, which resulted in the creation of a medium-long term credit line, worth 15 million euros, aimed at companies from the Azores and Madeira wishing to invest in Cape Verde. This initiative aims to strengthen economic relations between the regions and promote business development in the archipelago.

This report presents a comprehensive overview of the NCB's credit programmes and complementary initiatives, highlighting access conditions, financing modalities and application processes.

Conditions of Admissibility for NCB Credits

Eligibility Requirements for Companies of Different Sizes

Banco Caboverdiano de Negócios (BCN) offers credit lines adapted to companies of various sizes, from micro-enterprises to large corporations. In order to access these lines of finance, it is essential that companies fulfil certain eligibility criteria. These requirements, although similar to those already mentioned in previous reports, are detailed here with a focus on specific aspects that have not previously been covered:

• Registration and Legal Compliance: Companies must be duly registered in Cape Verde, with all legal and tax documentation up to date. This requirement is essential to ensure that funding is directed to formalised businesses and in compliance with local legislation. (BCN - Credit Solutions)
• Economic viability: In addition to the business plan, companies must submit economic feasibility studies that demonstrate the positive impact of financing on business growth. This differs from a simple business plan, as it involves a more detailed analysis of financial projections and expected returns.
• Refund capacity: The NCB assesses the company's repayment capacity on the basis of financial indicators such as the ratio of debt to equity and payment history. This criterion is particularly relevant for companies requesting large amounts.

Additional Criteria for Startups and Young Entrepreneurs

Start-ups and young entrepreneurs have access to specific conditions under the new business support programme. These conditions include:

• Innovation and Social Impact: Startups that present innovative projects or those with a positive social impact are more likely to be approved. This criterion is assessed on the basis of the originality of the project and its potential to generate social or environmental benefits.
• Mentoring and Consultancy: In addition to funding, the NCB offers mentoring and consultancy services to help young entrepreneurs run their businesses efficiently. This support is particularly useful for those who are just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey. (NCB - Economic Financing Ecosystem)

Guarantees and Guarantors

While the previous report dealt with the need for guarantees, this section focuses on specific types of guarantees and how they can be used to facilitate credit approval:

• Real guarantees: They include real estate, vehicles or other tangible assets that can be used as collateral. These guarantees are often required for medium and long-term loans.
• Personal Guarantees: For small companies or start-ups without significant assets, the NCB can accept personal guarantees, such as the signature of guarantors with proven financial capacity.
• Guarantee Funds: In partnership with the government and other institutions, the NCB offers access to guarantee funds that reduce the risk associated with financing early-stage companies or higher-risk sectors. (CV Consultancy)

Documentation required for application

The documentation required to apply for credit at the NCB is comprehensive and adapted to the needs of each type of company. This section differs from the existing content by detailing specific documents for different types of credit:

• Investment credits: They require the submission of a detailed business plan, building permits (where applicable) and supplier quotes.
• Treasury credits: They require recent financial statements, bank statements and a description of liquidity needs.
• Credits for Startups: They include an executive summary of the project, proofs of concept or prototypes (where available) and letters of recommendation from partners or investors. (NCB - Investment Credit)

Procedures for Foreign and Diaspora Companies

Foreign companies or those belonging to the Cape Verdean diaspora have access to special conditions at the NCB. This section explores aspects not previously covered:

• International transfer facilities: The NCB offers favourable conditions for international transfers, making it easier for foreign investors to finance projects in Cape Verde.
• Support for internationalisation: Diaspora companies can benefit from specific credit lines to expand their operations in Cape Verde, with conditions adapted to their needs. (Jornal Económico)

Evaluation and Approval of Credits

The credit assessment and approval process at the NCB is rigorous and transparent. This section complements the existing reports by detailing the specific criteria used in credit analysis:

• Risk Analysis: It includes an assessment of the sector of activity, the competition and the macroeconomic conditions that could impact the business.
• Technical visits: For large-scale projects, the NCB carries out technical visits to the investment site to check feasibility and compliance with the plans submitted.
• Feedback and adjustments: If the credit is not initially approved, the NCB provides detailed feedback and allows companies to adjust their applications to meet the requirements. (Compare Now)

This report provides a comprehensive overview of the conditions of eligibility for NCB credits, highlighting specific aspects that complement existing reports, without overlapping in content.

Procedures for Applying for Credit at the NCB

Preparation and Submission of Documentation

To start the credit application process at Cape Verdean Business Bank (BCN)It is essential to gather and present the necessary documentation. This step is essential to ensure that the application is analysed efficiently and without delay. The list of documents required may vary depending on the type of credit requested, but generally includes:

• Personal Identification DocumentsPhotocopy of identity card (ID) or national identification card (CNI), front and back.
• Declaration of Tax Identification Number (TIN)This document is required to prove the applicant's fiscal regularity.
• Proof of IncomeTo demonstrate your ability to repay, you will need to provide payslips, tax returns or other proof of income.
• Specific Project DocumentsThey include a detailed budget, description, location plans and a project approved by the City Council, where applicable.
• Guarantees and GuarantorsIn some cases, the NCB may ask for real guarantees (such as property or vehicles) or personal guarantees (guarantors with proven financial capacity).

This procedure differs from the existing content by detailing the documents required for construction loans, such as the building licence and land registryThese are specific to this type of financing. More information is available on the NCB's official website (BCN Construction Credit).

Simulation and Online Ordering

NCB offers an online simulation tool that allows interested parties to calculate the credit conditions before formalising the application. This service is quick, intuitive and eliminates the need to initially visit a branch. The simulation process includes:

1. Selecting the Type of CreditChoose from the various options available, such as construction credit, consumer credit or business credit lines.
2. Definition of ParametersEnter the desired amount, the repayment period and other relevant details.
3. Automatic calculationThe tool shows the credit conditions, including interest rates, monthly instalments and total costs.

After the simulation, the interested party can submit the application directly online, attaching the necessary documents. This procedure is an alternative to the traditional process and was developed to speed up credit applications, especially for customers living abroad. Find out more about this feature at (NCB Online).

Evaluation and Feasibility Analysis

Once the application has been submitted, the NCB carries out a detailed analysis to assess the viability of the loan. This process is conducted by a specialised team and includes the following steps:

• Risk AnalysisAssessment of the sector of activity, competition and economic conditions that could impact the project.
• Document verification: Confirmation of the authenticity and validity of the documentation submitted.
• Technical visitsFor large-scale projects, the NCB may carry out site visits to check compliance with the plans submitted.

This step is similar to the one described in previous reports, but here emphasis is placed on the direct interaction with account managersThey provide detailed feedback and guidance on how to adjust the order if necessary. More information can be found at (BCN Financing).

Credit Approval and Formalisation

If the application is approved, the NCB contacts the customer to formalise the credit agreement. This process includes:

1. Contract signingThe customer and the bank sign the contract, which details the financing conditions, such as interest rates, terms and guarantees.
2. Disbursement of FundsAfter formalisation, the approved amount is transferred to the customer's account.
3. Refund instructionsThe customer receives detailed information on the monthly instalments, including due dates and payment methods.

This is complemented by additional services, such as automatic payment notifications and access to financial reports via the NCB's online platform. For more details, see (BCN Credit Solutions).

Customer follow-up and support

The NCB offers a continuous follow-up service to ensure that customers can fulfil their financial obligations. This support includes:

• Dedicated ManagersEach customer has access to an account manager who can answer questions and offer personalised solutions.
• Conditions ReviewIn cases of financial difficulties, the NCB can renegotiate the credit conditions to facilitate repayment.
• Access to Online ToolsThe BCN Online platform allows customers to monitor their credit status, consult statements and make payments.

This follow-up is an extension of the services described in previous reports, with a focus on flexibility and customisation of the support offered. Find out more at (NCB Customer Support).

References

• BCN Construction Credit
• NCB Online
• BCN Financing
• BCN Credit Solutions
• NCB Customer Support

Conclusion

Banco Caboverdiano de Negócios (BCN) offers a wide range of credit lines adapted to the needs of entrepreneurs, small businesses and investors, covering sectors such as commerce, tourism, agro-industry and information technology. Among the programmes on offer are Young Start-upwhich encourages youth entrepreneurship, the Support for Trade and Servicesfor expanding operations, and Support for internationalisationThese initiatives are designed to promote economic development and innovation in Cape Verde by offering competitive conditions and diversified solutions. These initiatives aim to foster economic development and innovation in Cape Verde by offering competitive conditions and diversified solutions. More information on these modalities can be found at NCB's official website.

To access credit, companies must fulfil specific criteria, such as legal registration, presentation of viable business plans and adequate guarantees. The application process is simplified and can begin with an online simulation, followed by the submission of documentation and detailed analysis by the bank.

The conditions and programmes presented by the NCB reflect a commitment to sustainable growth and financial inclusion in Cape Verde. Interested entrepreneurs and investors should explore the options available and take advantage of the support resources on offer, ensuring that their projects are solidly structured and aligned with the bank's requirements.