Benefits of being a women owned business

Posted on by Amanda Levine

Over the years we’ve seen movements that empower women, embrace diversity, and educate on inequalities. A truly beautiful thing – but the challenges that some are facing, such as women entrepreneurs, is heartbreaking. Thankfully, women are resilient and have all that it takes and more to succeed. And for that, there’s great potential for women business owners. If you’re a female entrepreneur you may be wondering. . . How do I register as a woman owned small business? How to find grants for women-owned businesses? What qualifies as a woman owned business? 

By definition a woman-owned business is owned and controlled by 51% or more female citizen(s). To register you’ll need to check local regulations. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of supporting women-owned businesses, not just as a matter of fairness and equality, but also as a matter of economic growth and job creation. Governments, organizations, and corporations have launched initiatives to support and promote women-owned businesses, recognizing that empowering women entrepreneurs can have a positive impact on society and the economy as a whole, with Kickfurther being one of them. 

Searching for inventory financing for women entrepreneurs? You’re in the right place. Keep reading to unlock valuable intel and support systems for women owned businesses. 

Benefits of being a woman based business

Beyond breaking away from the stereotypes that still haunt the business world, being a woman based business comes with a variety of benefits, including: 

  • Access to funding: Many governments, organizations, and corporations have initiatives to support women entrepreneurs and provide funding opportunities specifically for women-owned businesses. 
  • Access to networks and mentors: There are many women-focused networking groups and mentoring programs that can provide women entrepreneurs with valuable connections and advice. 
  • Improved visibility: Many customers and investors are specifically looking for businesses that are owned and run by women, and being certified as a women-owned business can provide a competitive advantage.
  • Enhanced credibility: Certification as a women-owned business can also enhance a company’s credibility and reputation, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion. This can help attract and retain employees, customers, and business partners who value diversity.
  • Unique perspective: Women entrepreneurs may have a unique perspective on business and may be more attuned to the needs of women customers. This can lead to the development of innovative products and services that meet the needs of an underserved market.

What qualifies as a woman owned business?

In general, a woman-owned business is a business that is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by one or more women. To be certified as a woman-owned business, the business must go through a rigorous review process that examines the company’s ownership structure, financials, and other relevant information.

To be eligible for certification, the business must meet the following criteria:

  • At least 51% of the business must be owned and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
  • The women who own and control the business must be the ones who manage it on a day-to-day basis.
  • The business must be independent and not part of a larger company or franchise.
  • The women who own and control the business must be able to prove their ownership and control, typically through documentation such as a stock ledger or operating agreement.

Once a business is certified as woman-owned, it can take advantage of various programs and initiatives that are designed to support and promote women-owned businesses. This can include access to funding opportunities, mentoring and networking programs, and certification as a woman-owned business, which can enhance credibility and reputation.

Getting certified & registering as a women based business owner

There are several organizations that provide certification for woman-owned businesses, such as the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and the National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC). Getting certified as a woman-owned business can provide a range of benefits and to get certified, you will need to follow these steps: 

  • Determine eligibility
  • Choose a certifying organization
  • Gather documentation
  • Complete the application
  • Wait for review
  • Receive certification

The process for registering can vary depending on the agency or program, so you should research the requirements and procedures for each one. 

What are the challenges faced by women in starting their own business?

One of the biggest challenges women face when starting their own business is access to capital. Due to bias and gender stereotypes, women often have a harder time obtaining funding in comparison to their male counterparts. Women also face additional challenges, such as lack of role models, work-life balance, networking, and gaining access to markets. These challenges can make it harder for women to start and grow successful businesses, but with the right support and resources, women can overcome these obstacles and achieve their entrepreneurial goals.

What resources are available for female entrepreneurs?

There are many resources available for female entrepreneurs that can help them start and grow their businesses. Some resources we’ve chosen to highlight are as follows:

  • Funding Sources: Women-owned businesses can access a variety of funding sources, including grants, loans, and venture capital. Some organizations, such as the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), provide access to funding opportunities.
  • Networking Groups: Joining a networking group can help women entrepreneurs build connections, find customers, and access resources. There are many women-focused networking groups, such as Women’s Business Centers, that offer support and resources.
  • Mentorship Programs: Finding a mentor can be invaluable for women entrepreneurs, as mentors can provide guidance, support, and connections. 
  • Educational Programs: Educational programs can help women entrepreneurs build the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. There are many programs available, including online courses, workshops, and degree programs.
  • Professional Associations: Joining a professional association can provide access to resources, support, and networking opportunities. Some associations, such as the Association of Women’s Business Centers, focus specifically on supporting women-owned businesses.
  • Government Programs: Government agencies, such as the Small Business Administration (SBA), provide resources and support for small businesses, including women-owned businesses. These programs can include access to funding, training, and business development resources.

Female entrepreneurs that need working capital to fund inventory can join forces with women-alike or women activists at Kickfurther. Kickfurther is a unique platform that allows entrepreneurs to connect with a community of buyers to access affordable funding for inventory. With flexible repayment plans and fast funding times, Kickfurther solves a huge void for the inability to access fast and affordable funds.

What is the percentage of women-owned businesses?

According to the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), as of 2021, women-owned businesses represent approximately 42% of all businesses in the United States. This translates to nearly 13 million businesses, generating over $1.9 trillion in revenue and employing over 9.4 million people. Women-owned businesses have been growing at a faster rate than businesses overall in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue. Despite this growth, however, women-owned businesses still face significant challenges in accessing funding, networking, and other resources, and there is still work to be done to support and empower women entrepreneurs. 

What industries are most suitable for women to start a business in?

Women entrepreneurs can be successful in a wide range of industries, and the most suitable industry for you to start a business in, depends on your skills, interests, and experience. It’s important to remember that women can start a business in any industry that they are passionate about and have the skills to succeed in. 

Grants for women

There are many grants available specifically for women entrepreneurs, including: 

  • The Amber Grant: The Amber Grant is a $10,000 grant awarded monthly to a woman-owned business. The grant is intended to help women entrepreneurs overcome some of the challenges of starting a business.
  • The Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant: The Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant awards up to $100,000 in grant money to women-owned businesses that are working to create positive social and environmental change.
  • Cartier Women’s Initiative: The Cartier Women’s Initiative is an international business plan competition that awards $100,000 in grant money to female entrepreneurs who are creating innovative and sustainable businesses.
  • Women’s Business Centers (WBCs): WBCs are government-funded centers that provide resources and support for women entrepreneurs, including access to funding opportunities.
  • Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program: The SBIR program is a government-funded program that provides grants to small businesses, including women-owned businesses, that are working on innovative research and development projects.
  • InnovateHER Challenge: The InnovateHER Challenge is a business plan competition that awards grant money to women entrepreneurs who are developing innovative products or services that have a positive impact on women and families.

Are there tax benefits to being a woman-owned business?

In the United States, there are no specific tax benefits for being a woman-owned business. However, there are some government programs and incentives that may be available to women-owned businesses that can help reduce their tax burden or provide other financial benefits. Women entrepreneurs are encouraged to research the programs and incentives that are available in their area and take advantage of the opportunities that can help them succeed.

Additional resources for women entrepreneurs

As a woman-owned business, there is plenty of support and help you can get to achieve your business goals. Fellow women-owned businesses tend to be very collaborative, so don’t be scared to ask what led to their success. There are also many organizations that focus on helping women entrepreneurs, such as National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), SCORE, and Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBENC). These are just a few resources available, so check out your options and find the resources that best fit your needs and can help you succeed in your business. If you feel as if you’ve been discriminated against due to gender, speak up. Your voice matters for change. 

How Kickfurther can help

As a women-owned business, finding access to funding can be a real challenge and Kickfurther is here to help. By utilizing inventory funding offered at Kickfurther, Kickfurther can help manage your largest expense (inventory) and put you in control of your business, freeing up existing capital that you can utilize to grow your business. With quick access to funding and no immediate repayments, you don’t pay back until your new inventory orders begin to sell. Take a deep breath – financial flexibility is here. With a 99% funding success rate, there is no need to question that Kickfurther can provide the solution your business needs to meet its true potential.

Closing thoughts

While there are many benefits for women-based businesses, there are many challenges that come with being a women entrepreneur. As demand for your products grows, maintaining working capital can be difficult while trying to fulfill a growing number of orders. For an affordable solution that allows you to access working capital quickly, without costing so much it destroys your business, visit Kickfurther. Women deserve equal opportunity. We see your hard work and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our team at Kickfurther is made of real humans that devote our actions and work to supporting entrepreneurs.

Interested in getting funded at Kickfurther? Here are 3 easy steps to get started:

#1. Create a free business account

#2. Complete the online application 

#3. Review a potential deal with one of our account reps & get funded in minutes

Amazon FBA Guide

Posted on by Amanda Levine

The million dollar question: how does Amazon FBA work? If you can master this, you have a bright future ahead. With over 2.5 billion active users, Amazon is the world’s largest e-commerce platform. Offering a service particular for sellers, Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is a popular service that enables online sellers to store their products in Amazon’s warehouses and use Amazon’s fulfillment network to handle storage, picking, packing, and shipping of their products to customers. Amazon FBA can be a great way for sellers to increase their sales and expand their business without having to deal with the logistical challenges of storing and shipping products themselves.

If done successfully, this increased demand for a company’s products can present a major cash flow dilemma and cause business owners to seek funding to maintain adequate levels of inventory. To grow and sustain Amazon businesses, sellers often turn to Amazon inventory financing.

With an unusual business model (although it’s not so unusual anymore) sellers can face challenges when obtaining financing. One being the affording the cost, with problems such as qualifying and finding flexible terms following alongside. Before we cover Amazon inventory financing though, let’s take a look at how to start on Amazon FBA and find out is Amazon FBA worth it?

Here’s what you should know about Amazon FBA.

What is Amazon FBA?

Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is a service provided by Amazon that allows sellers to store their products in Amazon’s fulfillment centers. When a customer orders a product, Amazon picks, packs, and ships it on behalf of the seller. Additionally, Amazon provides customer service and handles returns on behalf of the seller.

This service is beneficial for sellers who want to scale their business without having to worry about logistics and fulfillment. By using Amazon FBA, sellers can leverage Amazon’s vast logistics network, which enables them to offer fast and reliable shipping to customers. Additionally, Amazon FBA can also help sellers increase their visibility on the Amazon marketplace, as products fulfilled by Amazon are eligible for Amazon Prime and other Amazon programs that can attract more customers.

How does Amazon FBA work?

Looking to utilize Fulfillment by Amazon? Here is an overview of how Amazon FBA works: 

  1. Set up your Amazon FBA account: create an Amazon seller account and then enroll in the FBA program.
  2. Prepare your inventory: Once enrolled,  you can prepare your inventory to be shipped to Amazon’s fulfillment centers, which includes labeling and creating a shipment plan. 
  3. Ship your inventory to Amazon: Once prepared, send your products to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. Amazon will receive your products, inspect them for damage, and then store them in its warehouses.
  4. Customers place orders: When a customer places an order for your product on Amazon’s website, Amazon will pick, pack, and ship the product on your behalf. Amazon will also handle customer service and returns for that order.
  5. Amazon pays you: Amazon will deduct fees for storage, picking, packing, and shipping from your sales proceeds. The remaining balance will be deposited into your seller account.

Pros and cons of Amazon FBA

Amazon FBA is a popular service that can provide online sellers with many benefits. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Amazon FBA:

Pros:

  • Increased visibility
  • Faster shipping
  • Reduced workload
  • Access to Amazon’s customer service
  • Lower shipping costs

Cons:

  • Fees
  • Lack of control
  • Inventory restrictions
  • Long-term storage fees
  • Competition

What are the fees associated with Amazon FBA?

It is important for sellers to carefully consider the fees associated with Amazon FBA when deciding whether to use the service. By understanding the fees and managing their inventory effectively, sellers can optimize their use of Amazon FBA and maximize their profits.

Amazon fees typically include: 

  • Storage fees: Amazon charges monthly fees for storing products in their fulfillment centers. The fees vary depending on the size and weight of the product and the time of year.
  • Fulfillment fees: Amazon charges fees for picking, packing, and shipping products to customers. The fees vary depending on the size and weight of the product and the shipping destination.
  • Multi-channel fulfillment fees: If a seller uses Amazon’s fulfillment network to fulfill orders from other sales channels (such as their own website or a different online marketplace), Amazon charges additional fees for the fulfillment of those orders.
  • Removal fees: If a seller wants to remove their products from Amazon’s fulfillment centers, Amazon charges fees for the removal and disposal of those products.
  • Long-term storage fees: If a seller’s products remain in Amazon’s fulfillment centers for more than 365 days, Amazon charges long-term storage fees based on the volume of inventory.
  • Returns processing fees: Amazon charges fees for processing returns and disposing of or restocking returned products.

How to get started with Amazon FBA?

By following these steps, you can get started with Amazon FBA and take advantage of the benefits it offers to online sellers.

  1. Create an Amazon seller account
  2. Enroll in Amazon FBA
  3. Prepare your products
  4. Create a shipment plan
  5. Ship your products to Amazon
  6. Monitor and manage your inventory

Can I use Amazon FBA for my international sales?

Yes, Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) can be used for international sales. Amazon has fulfillment centers in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Japan, Australia, and India. If you want to use Amazon FBA for international sales, you will need to enroll in the FBA program in the country where you want to sell your products and send your inventory to the appropriate fulfillment center in that country. 

How to prepare and label my products for Amazon FBA?

Preparing and labeling your products correctly is important when using Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) to ensure that your products are received, stored, and shipped correctly. Here are the steps to prepare and label your products for Amazon FBA:

  • Choose the right packaging: Choose packaging that is appropriate for your product and will protect it during shipping and handling.
  • Print Amazon FBA labels: You will need to print unique FBA labels for each product that you send to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. You can print these labels through your Amazon seller account. These labels contain a barcode that is used by Amazon to track your products.
  • Affix FBA labels to products: Affix the FBA labels to your products in a visible location, such as the outside of the packaging. Make sure the label is straight and easily scannable.
  • Prepare shipments: Once your products are labeled, you can prepare your shipments to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. Follow Amazon’s guidelines for packing and shipping your products, including using sturdy boxes, filling empty space with packing material, and sealing the boxes securely.
  • Schedule shipment: In your Amazon seller account, schedule a shipment to the appropriate fulfillment center, and print the shipping labels and packing slips.
  • Send products to Amazon: Send your products to Amazon’s fulfillment center according to the shipment plan you created. Amazon will receive and process your products, and they will become available for sale on Amazon’s website.

How does Amazon FBA handle returns and customer service?

When a customer wants to return a product, they can initiate the return process through Amazon’s website. Amazon will handle the return and refund process, and may even provide customers with a return shipping label. When the product is received at the Amazon fulfillment center, Amazon should inspect it to ensure that it is in good condition, and either return it to the seller’s inventory or dispose of it. Amazon FBA also handles customer service on behalf of the seller. Customers can contact Amazon directly with any questions or issues related to their orders. Amazon can respond to inquiries and resolve issues on behalf of the seller, such as issues with shipping, delivery, or product quality.

Growing your business with Inventory financing on Amazon

Inventory financing can be a helpful tool for growing your business on Amazon. With inventory financing, you can obtain funds to purchase inventory without having to use your own capital or tie up your cash flow. This can allow you to invest in more inventory, increase your product selection, and potentially grow your sales on Amazon. As a product based business – inventory is a major ingredient to your success. If you’re interested in funding for inventory as an FBA seller, visit Kickfurther to uncover tremendous opportunities for fast and affordable funding. 

Is Amazon FBA worth it?

Whether or not Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is worth it depends on your business goals and priorities. With FBA, Amazon handles the order fulfillment process, including picking, packing, and shipping, as well as customer service and returns. This can free up your time and resources to focus on other aspects of your business. However, FBA also comes with fees for storage, fulfillment, and other services, which can eat into your profit margins. It’s important to carefully evaluate your costs and pricing strategy to ensure that FBA makes sense for your business.

How Kickfurther can help

If you’ve been searching for Amazon inventory financing but have encountered some roadblocks or detouring costs, Kickfurther is here to help. Kickfurther can help you become a successful seller on Amazon by providing you with the necessary funding to purchase inventory without the constraints of traditional lending sources. Our platform connects you with a community of buyers who are willing to invest in your inventory on consignment. This means that you can purchase the inventory you need to fulfill orders without having to pay back the funds until you have received cash from your sales.

With quick access to funding and no immediate repayments, you don’t pay back until your new inventory orders begin to sell. This allows entrepreneurs to unlock financial flexibility to scale a business without worrying about cash flow constraints. Kickfurther puts you in the driver seat where you’ve rightfully earned your spot. You can maintain full control of your business without the need to give up equity while still accessing the working capital you need. Plus, did we mention Kickfurther is up to 30% cheaper than comparable options?

Founded and driven by a team of entrepreneurs we more than understand your needs, we cater to them. 

Closing thoughts

Amazon FBA can be a great service for sellers, handling the logistics of storing, handling and delivering products to your customers. Becoming a seller on Amazon can present a unique set of challenges for business owners. As demand for your products grows, maintaining working capital can be difficult while trying to fulfill a growing number of orders. By providing inventory on consignment, Kickfurther provides inventory funding that can free up the working capital necessary to keep growing and expanding your business. 

Interested in getting funded at Kickfurther? Here are 3 easy steps to get started:

#1. Create a free business account

#2. Complete the online application 

#3. Review a potential deal with one of our account reps & get funded in minutes

How to Ship to Amazon FBA Warehouse

Posted on by Amanda Levine

Are you a business owner considering using Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) for the first time? Seventy-three percent of Amazon sellers use FBA to fulfill orders thanks to its many benefits. Benefits include packaging, storing, shipping, and customer service services, which make it significantly easier to sell and distribute your products. Learn more by reading the article below.

What is Amazon FBA?

Fulfillment By Amazon or FBA for short, is a service provided by Amazon to improve the seller and customer experience. For sellers FBA offers storage, packaging, and fulfillment assistance. For customers, they can order with confidence knowing that Amazon is handling the order. Products may als qualify for Amazon Prime – which some rely on. Sellers that use FBA have the ability to store products at Amazon (of course for a small fee) until they sell. When the product sells, Amazon employees then work to locate, package, and ship the product. Of the top 10,000 Amazon sellers, 66% use FBA. 

Benefits of using FBA services include access to Amazon’s 24/7 customer service for inquiries, returns, and refunds, subsidized shipping fees, quick and reliable shipping and handling of inventory, access to the Prime audience, more likelihood of winning the Buy Box, and having Amazon’s name associated with your products.

How does Amazon FBA work?

By using Amazon FBA, it’s  like having your own warehouse, pickers, and packers! The FBA process is fairly straightforward. Here’s an overview of how it works. 

  1. Sellers source and purchase products to be shipped to an Amazon warehouse.
  2. Products are received and stored at Amazon fulfillment center. Amazon profits by charging sellers a storage fee which varies depending on how much room the product takes up.
  3. When the product sells. Amazon will fulfill the order and update seller inventory, If product storage agreement expires before product sells, Amazon can make arrangements to dispose of or return inventory. 
  4. Post sale customer support and returns are handled by Amazon.
  5. Sellers can be paid out every two weeks by Amazon.

 How to ship your FBA inventory to Amazon  [ Step By Step]

If you plan to use FBA it will be your responsibility to ship the inventory to Amazon. They provide instructions, but so you know what to expect, here’s an overview of how to ship FBA inventory to Amazon. 

  1. In Seller Central, navigate to “Manage Inventory” and locate your listing.
  2. On the right-hand side of the top of the page find the drop down menu that reads “edit.” Then, click “Send/Replenish Inventory.”
  3. Now, enter your “Ship from address.” Choose between “individual products” or “case-packed products.” Click “continue to shipping plan.”
  4. Once on the shipping plan, enter the quantity of units per case and include the total number of units being shipped. After you enter this information, click Continue.
  5. If products need to be prepped for shipping protection (for example, bubble wrap) you’ll need to indicate this. Select the product that needs protection on the drop-down. Amazon has specified categories to choose from in which they will assign what kind of prep it needs. If you don’t see the product type on the menu, Amazon does not require it to have prep before being sent. You also have the option to have Amazon to do the prep for a fee of $1.00 to $2.30 per unit. 
  6. Now you choose how your products are to be labeled. Products that require an Amazon (FNSKU) barcode, can be labeled by the seller or Amazon. But of course, if you have an Amazon label, expect to pay a fee (typically $0.55 per unit).
  7. Then, you’ll find out where Amazon wants to send your inventory; this is based on national demand.
  8. In the final stretch you’ll choose your preferred shipping service and identify how items will be packed. Input package dimensions and weight and Amazon will generate a price. Then, your items will be ready for shipping. Last details include choosing a ship date and printing labels. Note that both barcodes should be visible on each box. When ready, click “complete shipment.”

How long will it take for FBA to process my shipment? 

FBA shipments normally take 2-6 days to process once they have been delivered to an FBA center. In some cases delays can occur such as seasonal delays, mistakes in the packaging process, staffing issues, and so forth. It’s important to track shipments all the way through and pay attention to notifications. Shipment errors can cause you to be low or out of a product, thus resulting in missed sales. With Amazon payout coming bi-weekly and shipping delay occurring from time-to-time, sellers may need to leverage affordable inventory funding to keep cash flow healthy. To learn more about an affordable inventory funding method, check out Kickfurther.

Does Amazon charge for shipping to warehouse FBA?

Amazon does charge for shipping to their warehouse, which is on top of FBA fees. To help sellers save money, Amazon has Partnered Carrier options. If you choose to use an Amazon-partner carrier, the carrier should provide a shipping label. Once shipments are sent to FBA, you should see the charge on your FBA account labeled “inbound transportation charge.”

Is it better to use FBA or ship your inventory yourself?

Most Amazon sellers will highly recommend taking advantage of FBA. However, there are circumstances where there may be better options. Evaluate your store location, shipping duration, and technology to determine if you can successfully fulfill orders. Some businesses that consider self-shipping ideal, include:

  • Retailers selling bigger and heavier items
  • Sellers with the staff, technology, and processes to handle customer service (pre and post sale), returns, and fast fulfillment and shipping
  • Seller with plenty storage space
  • Items with a low turnover

Some advantages of self-shipping include:

  • Sellers may enjoy having total control of inventory and the order fulfillment process. This also gives you total control over your brand.
  • Some consumers prefer items shipped by the seller directly, especially if they are known for a stellar brand experience. 
  • Frequent or large shipments through major carriers such as UPS or FedEx may qualify for discounts
  • Maintain full control over data, analytics, and sales reports
  • Take advantage of full control over pricing
  • Keep costs down with less fees and more control

Although self-shipping works for some, using FBA is more popular. But, don’t take our word for it, look at the data. In 2020, 65.3% of Amazon sellers were using FBA, compared to 28.7% using FBA + self-shipping.

Businesses consider using Amazon’s FBA ideal for:

  • Sellers with small and lightweight products with healthy profit margins
  • Turnover rate is high and or you’ve determined sales trends 
  • Sellers that pool or comingle products may benefit
  • Sellers that need more storage space should use FBA

Some advantages of using Amazon FBA include:

  • It takes the headache out of order fulfillment
  • No investment in a warehouse including staff and warehouse management systems is needed
  • Opportunity for sales 24/7, 365
  • Ease of mind because Amazon’s stellar reputation in order fulfillment
  • Shipping rates are lower than if you were self-shipping

How Kickfurther can help

Amazon sellers need plenty of inventory in such a competitive marketplace. Plus, with Amazon paying out bi-weekly, sellers may struggle with cash flow. While you can take advantage of FBA to reduce overhead costs, funding for inventory may still be a challenge, This is where Kickfurther comes in. 

Kickfurther funds up to 100% of your inventory costs on flexible payment terms that you customize and control. With Kickfurther, you can fund your entire order(s) each time you need more inventory and put your existing capital to work growing your business without adding debt or giving up equity.

Why Kickfurther? 

No immediate repayments: You don’t pay back until your new inventory order begins selling. You set your repayment schedule based on what works best for your cash flow. 

Non-dilutive: Kickfurther doesn’t take equity in exchange for funding.

Not a debt: Kickfurther is not a loan, so it does not put debt on your books. Debt financing options can sometimes further constrain your working capital and access to capital, or even lower your business’s valuation if you are looking at venture capital or a sale.

Quick access: You need capital when your supplier payments are due. Kickfurther can fund your entire order(s) each time you need more inventory.

Kickfurther puts you in control of your business while delivering the costliest asset for most CPG brands. And by funding your largest expense (inventory), you can free up existing capital to grow your business wherever you need it – product development, advertising, adding headcount, etc.

Closing thoughts

In closing, we encourage you to start or continue down your path as an Amazon seller as it’s full of opportunity. Online marketplaces such as Amazon have created much opportunity for consumers and entrepreneurs. And, as time goes on – it only seems to get better and better. As an Amazon seller you’ll need to stay up-to-date with changes and regulations and understand the market for your products. Most importantly though, you’ll need to have enough products in stock so you never miss out on an easy sale opportunity.

Interested in getting funded at Kickfurther? Here are 3 easy steps to get started:

#1. Create a free business account

#2. Complete the online application 

#3. Review a potential deal with one of our account reps & get funded in minutes

Learn more about Amazon inventory financing options with Kickfurther.com

Meet Snowmelt

Posted on by Amanda Levine

Have you ever been disappointed in the quality of a production run or have found it hard to convey a product idea accurately? We’ve been there too.

It’s why we created Snowmelt. An app that helps you build product specifications and purchase order agreements from the ground up so you can clearly communicate requirements to your suppliers and build in protection in case your items ship late or not on spec.

Have the confidence that your expectations are communicated to your suppliers effectively so you don’t have to worry about issues down the line, saving you time and money.

Snowmelt puts you in the driver’s seat by giving you visibility and control of your manufacturing specifications and opening the path to building a resilient and redundant supply chain.

Simply input your product information into the app and you’ll get a custom specification sheet to send directly to your manufacturer.

  • Take control of your inventory and production processes

  • Save time creating your own production specifications sheets

  • Streamline efficiency and productivity

  • Ensure your products are delivered on time and on specs

You’ll input your product info, including key product attributes, such as measurements, materials, and color. And out comes your custom specification sheet.

Additional Features

Snowmelt has the ability to create a purchase order based on decades of industry best practices. The PO template includes customizable agreement clauses meant to protect your business.

You can also connect with your own expert English speaking sourcing team in China to function as an extension of your business at a discounted rate.

Ready to take control of your supply chain? Download Snowmelt today.

Snowmelt Glossary

Posted on by Amanda Levine

Product Specification: Product specs are blueprints that describe exactly what the product will be, what it will look like, and what function it will perform. It includes the name, description, weight, measurements, colors and materials.

Components: A uniquely identifiable material or coating (including ink or dye) that is intended to be included as a part of a finished product.

Outer Packaging: A packaging that forms the outer protection of a composite or combination packaging, and includes any absorbent material, cushioning and other components used to contain or protect inner receptacles or inner packagings

Inner Packaging: A packaging for which an outer packaging is required for transport.

Shipping Marks: An identifying word, number or symbol placed on freight to designate the consignee, destination, weight and related information.

Critical Defects: Critical defects render an item completely unstable and/or could cause harm to the user or someone in the vicinity of the product.

SDS (Safety Data Sheets): Summary document that provides information about the hazards of a product and outlines aspects of the product such as safety precautions, handling and disposal procedures. SDSs are usually written by the manufacturer or supplier of the product. An SDS is formatted to conform to the UN’s Globally Harmonized System (GHS), which has a specific 16 section format.

MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets): An MSDS is similar to an SDS, but does not necessarily conform to the UN’s GHS standard.

CE Mark: All products imported or sold in the EU must have a CE Mark. Affixing the CE Mark to a product indicates that it has been tested and meets the required Directives that apply.

Purchase Order: A purchase order (P.O. for short) is issued by the buyer or a client at the start of a business transaction. It documents the client’s expectations in regards to products or services required, the quantities in that order, and the total cost.

Invoice: An invoice is issued by the seller upon completion of the terms as outlined in the purchase order. It includes the previously agreed upon price they must pay now that the order is complete.

MOQ: Minimum order quantity. How much you have to order to secure the price from the supplier.

Deposit: Upfront cash payment required to book a production slot. Balance a cost normally payable when goods are ready FOB.

COGS: Cost of goods sold (COGS) refers to the direct costs of producing the goods sold by a company. This amount includes direct production costs including raw materials, labor to produce the product, and freight costs. It excludes indirect business expenses such as marketing and sales force costs.

FOB (Free on board): FOB indicates that the seller is responsible for getting the goods onto a ship designated by the buyer. At this point, the risk of loss passes from the seller to the buyer.

Why implement Component Testing?

Posted on by Amanda Levine

What is component testing?

Component testing is quality assurance testing that’s conducted on an individual component of your product, prior to final assembly of a product.

Why implement?

Don’t want to build the same thing twice? Component testing can save you time and money by identifying any defects or issues within the individual components of your product, before those components are assembled into a final product.

  • Avoid product rework by validating components before they are fabricated into final consumer goods
  • Save time by identifying issues early in the supply chain
  • Save money by avoiding rework of final products
  • Eliminate duplication of testing across multiple final products that share components

What types of tests work well for component testing?

Examples include:

  • Material quality tests, such as content analysis or material strength testing
  • Testing for banned substances such as lead, cadmium, phthalates, or flame retardants
  • Environmental exposure tests such as humidity, salt corrosion or extreme temperature testing

Are there test types for which component testing is not a good fit?

  • Functional Use Testing, or any type of test that validates the functionality of the end product
  • Impact or drop testing, to validate whether a product holds its integrity after being impacted or dropped
  • Any testing that validates the safety of an electrical system

Snowmelt can help you communicate Quality Assurance requirements to stakeholders at the top of your supply chain. Get started today and download the app.