Funding available at your stage

Amount determined per milestone phase

A milestone-based grant programme for young South African entrepreneurs, launched 26 June 2026. AYEF provides phased, non-repayable grant funding — no repayment, no equity taken. Open to entrepreneurs from idea stage and informal traders through to established small businesses. Funded through a partnership between Absa and the Tshiamo Foundation.

Up to R5 million

A flagship national programme designed to promote inclusive economic participation among women by providing integrated financial and non-financial support. The programme combines blended finance with business training, mentorship, networking, and supportive spaces for women in business.

R30 000 to R2 million

Dedicated loan fund for women-owned SMMEs that cannot access conventional commercial credit. Provides affordable development finance at concessional interest rates, combined with non-financial business development support. Target sectors include manufacturing, retail, agri-processing, services, and township commerce.

R1,000 to R200,000 (up to R250,000 for agriculture and technology co-operatives)

Suits pre-revenue businesses

A non-repayable grant programme for South African youth entrepreneurs that provides both financial and non-financial business development support to start or grow businesses. Support may include mentorship, business consultancy, market linkages, business management training, and youth co-operative development support.

R50 000 to R15 million

Development finance loans for small and medium enterprises and co-operatives that cannot access commercial bank credit. Covers working capital, asset finance, and bridging finance. Disbursed directly or through accredited financial intermediaries. Targets survivalist, micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Up to R1.5 million

Suits pre-revenue businesses

Non-repayable grant funding for technology-based ventures at technology readiness levels 5 and 6 (TRL 5-6). Supports commercialisation of innovations developed in South Africa. Disbursed through TIA-accredited incubators and technology stations.

Up to R1 million

A programme that supports informal, micro and small enterprises and cooperatives in township and rural economies through blended finance and business development support. It is designed to promote participation in the mainstream economy and improve competitiveness, compliance, and market access.