1. Hertz
2. Textron
3.  Sprint Nextel
4. Macy’s
5. Mylan
6. Goodyear
7. CBS
8. Advanced Micro Devices
9. Las Vegas Sands
10. Interpublic Group

The list spans industries and geographies  To read the whole article, and more information about each company, click here.

1.  Their customers are going bankrupt so they aren’t being paid outstanding balances
2.  Capital is tied up in accounts receivable

We all know that it is virtually impossible for SMBs to receive sufficient bank loans or generate the credit necessary for their business to thrive.  Even with the meager stimulus checks beginning to circulate from the federal government, the overriding issue for most SMBs is not having the cash on hand to hire more talent, pay off debt and/or take on more customers. 

In fact, did you know that it currently takes a small business 56 days to get paid by its customers (probably more in today’s economy). And, according to AMI’s Q2 2009 SMB surveys, “restricted cash flow” is one of the major challenges facing SMBs both in the U.S. and around globe.  As such, now more than ever, it’s essential that small business owners only partner with vendors & suppliers that are in good economic standing.  Additionally, having access to the capital commonly tied up in accounts receivable should be the number one priority for small businesses, as those funds represent many businesses largest untapped resources. 

If I were to offer some quick advice for small business owners, I’d strongly suggest making sure that you know why your customers buy from you, choose those customers carefully and do everything you can to generate access to all of the assets available to you – whether its government stimulus, a small bank loan or uncovering capital tied up in accounts receivable.