About David Gens

Alternative Lending and Merchant Advances

David Gens has pioneered merchant cash advances (MCA) as a flexible financing tool for small businesses, distinguishing it from traditional loans by basing repayments on future sales revenue rather than fixed schedules. [5][6][14] He explains MCAs as advances repaid via a percentage of daily credit card sales, ideal for businesses with seasonal or variable cash flows like restaurants and retail. [5][6] Gens co-authored an industry paper detailing how MCAs fit into broader business financing ecosystems. [14]

Entrepreneurial Journey and Recognition

Gens founded Merchant Growth in 2009 after spotting the rise of online lending trends, scaling it into a key player in Canada's alternative finance space. [13][12] His innovative approach to meeting small business capital needs earned him a spot in Business in Vancouver's 2014 Top 40 Under 40. [11] Profiles highlight his vision for tech-driven disruption of traditional financial institutions. [12][15]

Fintech Innovation and Industry Trends

As a 'fintrepreneur,' Gens hosts the Fintrepreneur Podcast, exploring intersections of finance, fintech, entrepreneurship, and banking. [9] He analyzes public listings in alternative business lending, signaling maturation of the sector. [10] Gens emphasizes speed and accessibility in funding, as detailed in his Canadian Business feature on revolutionizing business financing. [15][8]

Advocacy for Small Businesses

During the COVID-19 crisis, Gens partnered with CLA to push for enhanced government resources for Canadian small businesses, addressing gaps in traditional support. [7] His video series answers key questions like funding acquisition and suitable business types for advances. [6][8]

Company Background and Leadership

Under Gens' leadership, Merchant Growth focuses on rapid, non-traditional funding, with Gens personally contributing to educational content like video blogs and industry papers. [13][14]