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 win

‍

This is an honest look at what it takes to build a lean, high-impact business without following the traditional startup playbook.