NEF Funding Solutions & Specialist Funds
From early-stage contract finance to large industrial expansion and specialist sector funds, explore capital solutions tailored for black South African entrepreneurs.
Strategic Projects Fund (Venture Capital)
Early-stage project development finance for large-scale industrial projects aimed at re-industrialising South Africa.
Key Qualification Criteria:
Procurement Equity Fund
Funding black entrepreneurs who have secured business contracts or purchase orders from public or private sector entities.
- Minimum 50.1% black ownership
- Valid, verifiable contract or purchase order
Franchise Fund
Supporting black entrepreneurs acquiring new or existing franchise opportunities with accredited franchisors.
- 50.1% black ownership and management control
- Approved franchisor approval or preliminary agreement
Entrepreneur Growth Fund
Flexible capital to assist established early-stage black enterprises expand operations, purchase equipment, or enter new markets.
- 50.1% black ownership required
- Minimum 12 months trading history
Expansion Capital Fund
Growth capital for established black-owned businesses seeking to scale capacity, acquire assets, or pursue capital expenditure.
- Minimum 25.1% black ownership (preference for majority)
- Strong historical financial track record
Acquisition Funding Fund
Financing black equity participants acquiring equity stakes or outright ownership in existing operating companies.
- Substantial black shareholding post-transaction
- Target company must demonstrate profitability
New Markets Fund
Supporting greenfield projects and early commercialisation of innovative South African industries with high growth potential.
- Black shareholding target above 50.1%
- Feasibility study and bankable business plan
Rural, Township & Community Development Fund
Catalysing economic development and commercial activity in South Africa's rural areas, townships, and community trusts.
- Community or black-owned legal entity base
- Direct local job creation and community benefit
Strategic Projects Fund (Venture Capital)
Early-stage project development finance for large-scale industrial projects aimed at re-industrialising South Africa.
- Significant national strategic economic impact
- High black industrialist participation
Women Empowerment Fund
Targeted concessionary equity and debt finance dedicated exclusively to female black entrepreneurs across sectors.
- Minimum 51% black female ownership and management control
- Clear operational involvement by female founders
Tourism Transformation Fund (TTF)
In partnership with the Department of Tourism, providing grant and debt funding to black-owned tourism enterprises.
- Minimum 51% black-owned tourism business
- Qualifying tourist accommodation or experience
Arts & Culture Venture Capital Fund
Capital dedicated to commercial creative ventures, cultural heritage projects, and creative industry infrastructure.
- 50.1% black ownership in creative sector
- Demonstrated commercial viability and intellectual property
Spaza Shop & Township Retail Support Fund
Dedicated working capital, refurbishment funding, and stock support for South African township retail store owners.
- 100% South African black-owned township retail enterprise
- Valid municipal permit and local trader registration