What is a business grading?
A business grading is a due diligence tool which measures the relative performance of a business against other businesses of the same size and industry classification.
Is this a credit rating?
No. A grading does not calculate a probability of default or loss given default. Gradings can still be submitted with credit applications as a way to better explain how the business operates.
How much do the gradings cost?
Gradings are free during the pilot phase. Once the pilot is over a minimal fee will apply, paid to SMEDAN and to no third party. Please report to SMEDAN anyone who asks you to pay for a grading.
What is the difference between a financial and non-financial grading?
A non-financial grading excludes all financial calculations and is usually given to a business without financial statements. A financial grading includes them and is the complete grading. A non-financial grading can be converted to a financial grading once financial statements are drawn up.
How long do gradings take to complete?
Non-financial gradings can be completed in 1 to 5 days once all information has been provided to SMEDAN. Financial gradings take a similar time, but longer if financial statements are not up to date.
What does the pilot phase entail?
During the pilot phase we are testing the concept to refine it further, so that the final product is of a very high standard.
How do I apply to be graded?
Use the Get graded form on this site. It takes about 15 minutes. A grading analyst will then be assigned to your business and will send you the grading contract to sign online.
How do I verify a business's grading?
Search for the business under Completed Gradings. The scores shown there are the authoritative record of its grading. If a report or document shows different scores, contact SMEDAN.
Can I see a business's full grading report?
Full reports are confidential to the business and cannot be shared without its consent. If the business has given you its access code, open its page under Completed Gradings and enter the code to view the report.
Still have a question?
SMEDAN’s grading team will be glad to help.