PUNB Alocates RM80 Mln To Support 220 Bumiputera Entrepreneurs
KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Bernama) -- Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB) has introduced and enhanced three specialised financing programmes, which are expected to benefit 220 entrepreneurs, with a total allocation of RM80 million to help bumiputera entrepreneurs secure capital faster, strengthen cash flow, and expand their business capacity.
In a statement today, PUNB said the financing programmes are PROSPER GROW Biz Express, PROSPER GROW Fuel Up and PROSPER GROW Auto Biz.
Eligible entrepreneurs may access competitive financing rates starting at 3.5 per cent per annum on a flat-rate basis for selected products.
The statement said PROSPER GROW Biz Express offers an accelerated financing pathway of between RM100,000 and RM300,000 to bumiputera entrepreneurs operating as sole proprietorships, partnerships or limited liability partnerships in the retail, distributive trade and manufacturing sectors.
Funds may be disbursed as early as 12 working days, subject to the submission of complete documentation and a credit risk assessment.
PROSPER GROW Fuel Up is aimed at bumiputera petrol station operators. It provides working capital financing of up to 100 per cent for inventory purchases, which will help operators to maintain adequate supply, ensure operational continuity and manage cash flow more effectively.
Financing will range from RM100,000 to RM1 million, with a tenure of up to seven years.
The statement said PROSPER GROW Auto Biz is tailored for automotive service centres under strategic partners such as PETRONAS AutoExpert. It covers fixed assets and working capital to help operators acquire equipment, increase service capacity and meet customer demand.
“Financing ranges from RM100,000 to RM1 million for a tenure of up to seven years. PUNB’s strategic partners also provide training, marketing support, trade programmes and business development advisory services,” the government-linked company said.
PUNB said the programmes are designed to meet the needs of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) seeking faster and more flexible access to financing to manage rising operating costs, purchase inventory, acquire assets and seize growth opportunities in an increasingly competitive market.
Its chief executive officer Izwan Zainuddin said the programmes reflect PUNB’s role as a business development partner, rather than just a financing provider.
“Our objective is to build more resilient bumiputera businesses that can grow in a structured manner and compete across broader value chains amid an uncertain global economy.
“Financing must be accompanied by an understanding of the business model, sector requirements and the entrepreneur’s actual capacity so that the growth achieved can be sustained,” he said.
PUNB expects its competitive financing offerings will help more bumiputera entrepreneurs strengthen their financial position, expand operational capacity and pursue new growth opportunities.
Entrepreneurs seeking further information on the financing programmes, eligibility requirements and application process may visit PUNB’s official website at http://www.punb.com.my.
-- BERNAMA