Access to credit remains one of the biggest challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Brazil, especially given the high demand for working capital and investments in an increasingly competitive market.
Proof of this is that in 2024, the demand for business credit grew significantly, particularly for SMEs, which saw a 13.1% increase in applications compared to the previous year, according to the Serasa Experian Credit Demand Indicator.
Additionally, the opening of 1.46 million companies in the second four-month period of 2024, as reported by the Federal Government’s Business Map Bulletin, and the closure of 830,000 companies in the same period—11.7% higher than in 2023—also reflects market dynamism, high competitiveness, and the difficulty of sustaining operations without easy access to financial resources.
Among the main barriers they face are high interest rates, such as the national average of 42.49% for micro-enterprises in 2024, and the requirement of collateral, which makes it difficult to secure financing from traditional banks. From there, a series of additional problems arise, such as high delinquency rates, bureaucratic hurdles, and limitations in traditional credit analysis.
It was precisely this scenario that motivated the emergence of innovative solutions in the financial market: companies using technology to offer more accessible and effective models, making credit more inclusive for small and medium-sized businesses.
One example is M3 Lending, based in Minas Gerais, which offers credit with interest rates 22% lower than those charged by conventional banks, in addition to providing a digital and streamlined experience. “Our mission is to facilitate access to credit for established companies, allowing them to invest in new projects or take advantage of favorable market opportunities,” explains Gabriel César, CEO of the fintech.
The platform operates efficiently: interested companies submit their data and documents online, and M3 conducts a detailed credit analysis. If approved, the offer is presented to investors, who have up to seven days to decide on funding. Available amounts range from R$50,000 to R$500,000, with interest rates starting at 1.4% per month and repayment terms of up to 24 months.
César points out that many entrepreneurs give up on their businesses due to unfavorable conditions offered by traditional institutions. “High interest rates and requirements like property collateral compromise the viability of small businesses and put entrepreneurs’ personal assets at risk,” he warns.
In addition to competitive rates, the fintech aims to balance risk and return, offering an average yield of 2.8% per month for investors. “This model creates a positive cycle: investors receive above-average returns, while companies gain access to more affordable credit to grow and strengthen their operations,” the CEO explains.
This is a stimulus for economic growth. With easier access to credit, SMEs can invest in projects that expand their businesses and generate direct economic impact. “Our goal is precisely to foster the development of these companies, which are essential for Brazil’s economic growth,” says César. “After all, they are responsible for more than 52% of formal jobs in the private sector,” he concludes.
