The National Empowerment Fund (NEF) may be the right funder for you if your business venture has the potential to make a positive impact on the local economy, create jobs and endeavours to increase the economic participation of black people, women, youth and other previously disenfranchised groups. 

The NEF is a major part of the government’s effort to support SMEs in the country. The fund offers a wide variety of financing products which target businesses across all industries. 

The fund is designed to facilitate and promote black economic participation. The funder provides financial and non-financial support to black entrepreneurs and groups in support of Broad-Based BEE (B-BBEE) in terms of government legislation. 

Before applying for development funding such as NEF funding business owners must do their research and prepare for what can be an extensive process.

Your business must be able to meet the fund’s strict criteria, deal with the heavy paperwork, and handle the long processing times. Find out whether you qualify down below 👇

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Have You Considered Seeking An Investor?  

Angel investors are usually high-network individuals with an interest in business. Most are former entrepreneurs or business executives who use personal funds to provide capital to startups in exchange for equity.

Angels came in very early in the startup journey and provided support to founders taking their first steps.

They incubate early-stage businesses, not only providing capital but also market access and mentorship. Angels will often also share their industry connections and their skills and experience. In return, the startups they invest in must be able to deliver a good return on investment. Investors will expect around 30-40% annual return on investment over a three to seven-year period. They will exit a business in three to seven years. Read the full guide to find out how to secure funding from angel investors 👇

Are you looking for an Unsecured Loan?  

Complete our simple and easy-to-use form to compare multiple small business loan options.

More Funding Opportunities for SMEs You Might Not Know About  

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is a national development finance institution with a mission to provide funding opportunities for businesses with the capability to grow the economy and create jobs. In particular, it funds black-owned and empowered companies, black industrialists, women, and youth-owned and empowered enterprises. IDC Funding OpportunitiesPurchase ordering funding is also known as working capital finance. It is when a lender agrees to buy the raw materials or to source the goods on your behalf of so that you can complete your purchase order. The lender takes back their share of the profit when the customer pays you for the purchase order. Top Purchase Order Funding Lenders in South Africa 

DTI funding is an excellent opportunity for small businesses to gain financing and access new growth opportunities in South Africa. All kinds of small businesses can apply for DTI grants, no matter what industry. There are various DTI funding schemes available to match the requirements of different applicants. DTI Funding for Small Business 

+20 Business Funding Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in the Agricultural Sector

Find the right fund for your agriculture business. Choose from debt financing and venture capital to government grants & incentives and prizes.

Get a full list of agricultural funds for the following categories/businesses:

• Field crop farming

• Animal production

• Dairy farming

• Food & agricultural value chain

• Agro-processing

PLUS – Niche funds for Black and Women-owned agriculture businesses