VLAIO launched the extended bridging loan, a Flemish support measure on Jan. 3, 2023, with the aim of cushioning liquidity needs caused by the Ukraine crisis, rising energy costs and increases in the general price level.
Under this expanded scheme, both SMEs and large enterprises apply for a bridging loan. The extended bridge loan can be applied for up to and including December 15, 2023. If the anticipated budget runs out by Dec. 15, 2023, applications will no longer be possible.
The bridge loan can be applied for from a minimum amount of EUR 10,000 up to a maximum from EUR 2,000,000. For applications over EUR 400,000, a financial plan and cash planning are required as additional substantiation. For applications of less than EUR 400,000, the need for these additional documents depends on the case.
In support of the bridge loan, invoices with a invoice date as of August 1, 2022 to be submitted. Among other things, VLAIO accepts invoices related to the purchase of trade goods, investment invoices and ongoing fixed costs. Invoices related to wages or between affiliated companies do not qualify as supporting documentation for the bridge loan.
The applicant has the option of applying for a bridge loan with a term from 3 years or 5 years with monthly repayments. The first 2 years of this term, the repayment of the capital of the bridge loan exempt, no exempt period is provided for the repayment of interest. The interest rate of the bridging loan is minimum 2% and maximum 3.5% depending on the size of the applicant company and the term of the bridging loan.
The following types of businesses are not eligible:
- Companies in difficulty
- Companies with NSSO, or VAT or bank arrears
- Companies with insufficient repayment capacity
- Enterprises linked With an ineligible company
Do you think your company could benefit from this? Do not hesitate to contact us here contact us with questions.
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