IF/ABL Foundation Course - 2025

The course consists of five modules, which you complete under the guidance of a coach, usually their line manager or another experienced member of their organisation.

The activities are designed to encourage you to learn more about your organisation and the industry in general.

MODULE ONE – The development of invoice finance

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending fundamentals.

1. Learn the basics of Invoice Finance and its benefits for businesses.
2. Explore the evolution and technological advancements in Invoice Finance.
3. Understand key concepts like Factoring, DID, CID, and risk management.
4. Discover how Asset Based Lending supports cash flow and business growth.

By mastering these concepts, you are well-equipped to navigate financial solutions effectively.

Estimated completion time: Approximately one hour to read all course materials. Please allow additional time to review key concepts, take notes, and consolidate your understanding. 

Prerequisite: We recommend completing the Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending Introduction Webinar Series (available through UK Finance) before enrolling in the Foundation course.

MODULE TWO – Why companies use invoice finance

This is the second of five modules of the UK Finance IF/ABL Foundation course, giving you an excellent grounding in the fundamentals of Invoice Finance. This module thoroughly explores business funding options, focusing on invoice finance and its role in managing cash flow and working capital. It also delves into risk management strategies, funding types, and practical applications through real-world examples. 

1. Understand why businesses seek funding
2. Recognise various funding types
3. Learn the role of invoice finance
4. Familiarise yourself with risk management strategies
5. Analyse real-world examples
6. Evaluate customer payment terms
7. Identify factors for selecting invoice finance providers

By understanding these concepts, you will be well-equipped to make informed financial decisions and optimise business funding strategies.

Estimated completion time: Approximately one hour to read all course materials. Please allow additional time to review key concepts, take notes, and consolidate your understanding.

Prerequisite: Must have completed Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending Foundation - Module 1: The Development of Invoice Finance.

MODULE THREE – Assessing the prospective client and the take-on process

This is the third of five modules of the UK Finance IF/ABL Foundation course, which will give you an excellent grounding in the fundamentals of Invoice Finance. This course provides a detailed exploration of the client assessment and onboarding process in Invoice Finance and Asset-Based Lending (IF/ABL). It emphasises understanding client suitability, managing risks, and utilising key legal and financial tools effectively.

1. Understand client suitability
2. Recognise key risks
3. Familiarise yourself with the take-on process
4. Utilise audit trails effectively
5. Differentiate between principals and agents
6. Identify key legal documents

Understanding these concepts will equip you to assess clients effectively and navigate the complexities of Invoice Finance and Asset-Based Lending.

Estimated completion time: Approximately one hour to read all course materials. Please allow additional time to review key concepts, take notes, and consolidate your understanding.

Prerequisite: Must have completed Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending Foundation - Module 2: Why companies use Invoice Finance.

MODULE FOUR – Managing the client

This is the fourth of five modules of the UK Finance IF/ABL Foundation course, which will give you an excellent grounding in the fundamentals of Invoice Finance. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of managing client relationships and financial facilities within the context of invoice finance. It covers key concepts such as funding availability, risk mitigation, and the roles of invoice financiers and clients.

1. Understand client funding
2. Monitor financial performance
3. Recognise funding limits
4. Differentiate between factoring and invoice discounting.
5. Review client agreements
6. Identify financial performance indicators.
7. Maintain strong client relationships.

By understanding these principles, you will be well-equipped to manage invoice finance effectively and build sustainable client relationships.

Estimated completion time: Approximately one hour to read all course materials. Please allow additional time to review key concepts, take notes, and consolidate your understanding.

Prerequisite: Must have completed Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending Foundation - Module 3: Assessing the prospective client and Take-on process​.

MODULE FIVE – Asset based lending

This course offers a detailed exploration of Asset-Based Lending (ABL), its components, and its practical applications in financing. It highlights distinctions from Invoice Finance, asset valuation, and the legal and financial intricacies involved.

1. Understand Asset-Based Lending
2. Explore ABL components
3. Recognise the importance of cash flow.
4. Identify security types and fee structures.
5. Learn stock finance intricacies.
6. Acknowledge insolvency implications
7. Familiarise yourself with compliance requirements.

By understanding these concepts, you will be well-equipped to confidently navigate the complexities of Asset-Based Lending.

Estimated completion time: Approximately one hour to read all course materials. Please allow additional time to review key concepts, take notes, and consolidate your understanding.

Prerequisite: Must have completed Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending Foundation - Module 4: Managing the client