Whether you're new to ecommerce or a seasoned store owner, you've likely thought about the various funding methods for your growing business.
Maybe you're looking to buy more inventory, knock out those renovations you've been planning, or access more working capital. In either case, simple and easy access to funding can unlock transformative avenues to growth.
Meet Rebuy community member and funding expert Nima Shamsili.
After experiencing the challenges of running an ecommerce brand firsthand, Shamsili launched Likety, a fintech-enabled funding company for small businesses. Through Likety, Shamsili has helped countless brands get quick, flexible funding to manage inventory, advertising, and working capital—minus the usual bank hurdles.
We sat down with Nima Shamsili to learn more about funding types, what makes Likety unique, and advice for founders looking for first-time funding.
1. What does Likety do?
Shamsili: We provide funding to small businesses, such as ecommerce stores, for inventory purchases, advertising and marketing, or working capital.
2. How is Likety different from a bank?
Shamsili: We are different in a couple of ways. As a fintech-enabled capital provider, we leverage our systems and processes to approve businesses that would typically be denied traditional financing due to minimum loan sizes, lack of physical collateral, or limited credit history.
Additionally, we appeal to businesses seeking a swift and efficient funding process as we can approve applications within hours, and provide funding in as fast as one day.
3. Why is your company called Likety?
Shamsili: We wanted a name that spoke to our mission of simplifying access to capital for small businesses by offering an experience that is both pleasant and likable. Hence, Likety (pronounced “Like-it-ee”).
"Take enough funds with a bit of cushion for unforeseen miscalculations, but avoid taking more than needed to prevent overpaying."
4. Why is Likety a better option for ecommerce stores than other funding companies?
Shamsili: We truly understand the ecommerce landscape. While my background is in fintech, I am also the co-founder of a wellness ecommerce brand. Experiencing the challenges of ecommerce firsthand—such as managing supply chains, inventory, and advertising—made me realize the importance of having a funding company that truly understands the unique needs of ecommerce founders.
What's more, we not only avoid prepayment penalties but offer early delivery addendums that allow our clients to save money when they pay early, fostering a fair and long-term relationship.
We also have the Likety Network, a network of lenders and funding companies. If we cannot approve a submission, we can shop for offers with other best fits, making us a one-stop shop!
5. What kind of capital is currently available to ecommerce stores?
Shamsili: On the equity side, raising money has been very difficult over the past few years, especially in the D2C world. Established companies with revenue over $5 million annually and strong credit profiles can look into asset-based loans. For those below that threshold, available financing options include revenue-based funding solutions, short-term loans, and lines of credit.
6. What do you think ecommerce founders should look for when considering funding options?
Shamsili: First, look at the cost of capital. Make sure the cost of capital makes sense for the intended use of funds.
Second, the funding amount. Take enough funds with a bit of cushion for unforeseen miscalculations, but avoid taking more than needed to prevent overpaying.
Finally, the repayment period. A longer repayment period isn't always a good thing. Sometimes shorter repayment options allow access to capital again sooner. However, it shouldn't be too short, as that could negatively impact cash flow.
7. What advice would you give to ecommerce founders looking for funding for the first time?
Shamsili: Call the company, talk to a funding manager, and get a feel for the culture. How do they answer the phone? Are they communicative and respectful? While rates and product offerings are naturally important, the funding company’s practices and procedures are arguably even more critical—they can save you from a nightmare scenario.
8. What are you reading (or watching) these days?
Reading Principles by Ray Dalio and just finished watching The Penguin!
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