A Financial Documentation Compliance Model for Improving Credit Access Among Underreported Small and Medium Enterprises

• Author(s): Samson Oladele Dare ; Joshua Oluwagbenga Ajayi ; Onyeka Kelvin Chima
• Paper ID: 1710114
• Page: 241-260
• Published Date: 05-05-2020
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 3 Issue 6 December-2019

Abstract

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are critical drivers of economic growth, innovation, and employment, particularly in developing economies. However, a significant proportion of underreported SMEs those lacking formal financial documentation or adequate record-keeping remain excluded from traditional credit systems, thus hindering their expansion potential. This study proposes a Financial Documentation Compliance Model (FDCM) designed to enhance credit access among underreported SMEs by promoting standardized financial reporting, regulatory alignment, and digital record integration. The model incorporates a multi-phase approach: diagnostic assessment of existing SME financial behavior, capacity-building interventions, adoption of simplified bookkeeping tools, and alignment with financial institution documentation requirements. By integrating digital financial tools, such as mobile accounting apps and cloud-based reporting systems, the model enables SMEs to generate verifiable financial histories, thereby increasing transparency and lender confidence. This conceptual framework draws on empirical studies and stakeholder consultations to identify the primary bottlenecks in SME credit access, including informal cash flow patterns, inconsistent income reporting, and limited understanding of credit scoring mechanisms. The FDCM is anchored on compliance incentives, such as access to financial advisory services, tax benefits, and eligibility for grant-based technical assistance, which collectively promote a culture of financial accountability among SMEs. Moreover, the model proposes a tiered documentation standard tailored to different SME maturity levels, allowing informal businesses to gradually transition into formal credit ecosystems without being overwhelmed by complex compliance requirements. Preliminary validation through expert interviews and pilot program analyses suggests that structured financial documentation not only improves access to credit but also strengthens SME resilience, strategic planning, and investor readiness. The paper concludes that widespread adoption of the FDCM could bridge the credit inclusion gap, stimulate local enterprise development, and support inclusive economic growth. The model is particularly relevant for policy stakeholders, development finance institutions, and commercial banks seeking to de-risk SME lending while fostering sustainable financial ecosystems.

Keywords

Financial documentation, credit access, underreported SMEs, compliance model, financial inclusion, SME financing, bookkeeping tools, credit readiness, informal economy, SME formalization.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Samson Oladele Dare , Joshua Oluwagbenga Ajayi , Onyeka Kelvin Chima "A Financial Documentation Compliance Model for Improving Credit Access Among Underreported Small and Medium Enterprises" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 3 Issue 6 2019 Page 241-260

IEEE:
Samson Oladele Dare , Joshua Oluwagbenga Ajayi , Onyeka Kelvin Chima "A Financial Documentation Compliance Model for Improving Credit Access Among Underreported Small and Medium Enterprises" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 3(6)