The Startup Lending Millions Without Raising More Equity - Daniel Goldberg, Bridgement

In this episode of The Founder Files, we sit down with Daniel Goldberg, founder of Bridgement, the fintech startup that’s quietly funded over R2 billion to SMEs across South Africa.Bridgement isn’t just another lending platform. They’ve raised once, scaled sustainably, and built powerful partnerships with banks and asset managers without chasing flashy VC rounds. But what does it really take to grow a capital intensive fintech in one of the toughest markets in the world?We go deep into:•Building a scalable fintech with just one equity round•How to raise debt smartly without giving up control•Competing with banks through speed, tech, and simplicity•Structuring partnerships that scale your reach•Why culture, strategy, and sustainable growth still winThis is an honest look at what it takes to build a lean, high-impact business without following the traditional startup playbook.---------- Book a curiosity call with Cameron: https://www.metavolve.co/curiosity-callThis episode is brought to you by Metavolve.Metavolve is a team of focused experts committed to helping entrepreneurs like you scale their businesses successfully. Reach out to our team to learn more: https://metavolve.co/---------- To support The Founder Files:🔔 Subscribe and turn post notifications on⭐ Leave a comment to let us know your thoughts💭 Share your thoughts on Linkedin and tag Cameron Coutts🔗 Connect with Daniel:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-goldberg/🔗 Connect with Cameron:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefounderfilespodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-metavolve/----------00:00 Introduction04:54 What is Bridgement?08:27 What separates Bridgement from its competitors?12:28 The Bridgement approach to building and funding a business20:32 Why & how Bridgement began28:10 How Bridgement raised capital to lend capital39:38 Inside Bridgement’s partnership model for scalable lending42:23 Exploring acquisition as a route to scale43:09 Bridgement’s multi-channel distribution strategy45:12 The growth story behind R2 Billion in SME funding48:55 Bridgement’s purpose: Leveling the SME playing field49:18 Choosing the right growth levers at Bridgement58:31 How Bridgement’s lending model actually works01:04:45 After the deal: Bridgement’s progress unveiled01:08:02 Daniel’s take on governance in growing businesses01:09:13 The infrastructure that frees up founder focus01:18:51 Bridgement’s vision: What lies ahead