Latest news with #EdgeGrowth
Zawya
12 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Edge Growth's first Investee Day marks new chapter in supporting and scaling South African SMEs
Small business development specialist, Edge Growth, hosted their first ever Investee Day on 4 June in Johannesburg. Invitations were extended to small businesses that have been part of the Edge Growth ecosystem and investment portfolio through various funding and mentorship platforms, with guests having the opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts on the essential strategies for scaling a business. Attendees were treated to a wealth of real-life business lessons and expert insights, designed to equip them for the next phase of their growth journey. In addition to the educational content, the event offered powerful networking opportunities, allowing business owners to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another in a supportive and growth-focused environment. 'Edge Growth is not just about capital – it's about impact, resilience, and transformation," says Daniel Hatfield, CEO of Edge Growth who facilitated the event. 'We're 'VC with a twist,' dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs to create systemic change and drive inclusive growth.' He described the evolution of Edge Growth over the last 20 years – from a bold idea focused on growing SMEs and creating jobs, to becoming one of Africa's leading impact investors. 'Beyond accolades and scale, the true value lies in driving inclusive growth and empowering entrepreneurs to create systemic change." The event featured a compelling keynote address by Miles Kubheka, a renowned entrepreneur, dynamic speaker, author and chef who brought fresh perspective and inspiration to guests. Kubheka made a successful shift from a career in IT to establishing himself as a leading figure in the food industry, demonstrating the impact of vision and determination. Renowned entrepreneur, dynamic speaker, author and chef, Miles Kubheka Keshav Mohabir, founder of and chief of staff at Art of Scale, delivered a practical lesson with practical insights about harnessing AI and technology to boost efficiency and productivity. With a background spanning social entrepreneurship, technical architecture, and strategic consulting, Mohabir brought to the event his unique blend of creativity and technical expertise, highlighting how smart tech adoption can drive tangible business growth. Another really valuable lesson was delivered by Kekeletso Moloto from Jedi Marketing, who shared transformative marketing and sales insights, offering practical strategies for building a strong brand through clear and consistent communication. Another highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring Mohabir and Moloto, alongside Ndia Magadagela, CEO and co-founder of Everlectric, a trailblazer in electric vehicle leasing. Nevenka Naidoo from DKN Transport, a logistics company specialising in road freight and cross-border services across multiple industries and Dr Thomas Brennan were also on the panel. Brennan is the co-founder of South African fintech startup Franc, known for its user-friendly app that makes investing in money market and equity funds accessible to everyone, with no minimum investment required. Everlectric, DKN Transport and Franc themselves are all SMEs that have benefited from Edge Growth managed funding. This panel discussion delved into the major challenges and strategies faced by entrepreneurs, focusing particularly on mindset, business scaling, and the role of technology. SME owners shared personal experiences to highlight the critical importance of resilience and a persistent mindset, stressing that co-founders, team members, coaches, and mentors are among the most valuable assets, alongside tech tools and targeted learning opportunities. When asked about the mindset needed as an entrepreneur, Magadagela said that having a mindset of always wanting to learn and being willing to hear and 'listen with your eyes' is vital. "As a CEO, you're the chief optimism officer – you need the resilience to fall 17 times and get up 18, and the mindset to always keep learning and listening,' she says. "My biggest personal sacrifice has been time with family, which is why we've intentionally kept the business at a manageable scale to maintain some balance in our lives,' is how Naidoo responded to a question about some of the personal sacrifices' entrepreneurs have to make. Referring to her biggest learning so far, Moloto says that one of the things you quickly realise in business, especially as a solo founder, is that there are many skills you lack. "You can't do everything, and I've had to build skills I lacked, especially around operations, and learn to rely on a team. It's been the hardest but biggest personal development journey." Brennan agreed and emphasised the importance of knowing your strengths. 'You can't be expected to be an expert in everything. I'm an engineer, I teamed up with an actuary, and we have very different strengths that complement each other well." This inaugural cross-fund Investee Day marks a significant milestone in Edge Growth's commitment to empowering the diverse small businesses within their investment portfolio across all managed funds. Under the Edge Growth Ventures umbrella, one of South Africa's most prominent SME fund managers with over R2bn in assets under management, this event draws inspiration from practices common in the Venture Capital sector and has created a platform that fosters collaboration, growth, and shared learning. In closing, chief executive officer of Edge Growth Ventures, Janice Johnson reflected on the purpose and impact of the event, emphasising the company's ongoing commitment to backing resilient teams, strong ideas, and entrepreneurs who share a vision for meaningful impact. 'Our goal was to create meaningful, unstructured opportunities for connection, learning, and inspiration, and this first Investee Day truly exceeded expectations. It sparked deep conversations, honest storytelling, and the beginning of a strong community. We're committed to keeping this momentum going and look forward to making this an annual event that continues to support and grow South Africa's SME ecosystem,' Johnson says. Edge Growth is a leading SME and Venture Fund manager, specialising in developing small businesses and creating jobs and real transformation by connecting corporates and entrepreneurs, growing SMEs by addressing their key constraints: access to finance, markets and skills. Our offering consists of three services areas, designed to achieve maximum impact: - ESD Strategy for corporates & building SMEs in their value chain - Investing in and growing SMEs through fund management - Scaling businesses to full potential through accelerator programmes All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa's building funding ready B2B businesses: Applications now open for the SME Advancer Programme
There is no question about the crucial role that SMEs play in the South African economy. SMEs that offer products or services directly to other businesses (B2B enterprises) further strengthen the business ecosystem, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to job creation and regional development. The SME Advancer Programme, in partnership with FNB and small business development specialists Edge Growth, supports B2B enterprises by enhancing business growth, improving funding readiness, and providing access to innovative funding opportunities. Many SMEs miss out on funding due to a range of challenges – this programme is designed to help them overcome those barriers. Applications are now open for the 2025 intake, with submissions closing on 2 May. A total of 30 entrepreneurs across five key industries will be selected to participate in this 18-month programme. Delivered in a hybrid format (digital and in-person sessions), it is designed to maximise flexibility while optimising learning and impact. More than just a business development initiative, the SME Advancer Programme's core objective is to attract investment and secure funding for SMEs. To this end, it places strong emphasis on financial management and funding readiness. The programme also aims to support growth opportunities, improve operational efficiency, and promote sustainable business practices – all while helping SMEs navigate and apply for appropriate funding channels. Qualifying criteria Applicants must meet the following requirements: - Be a 51% black-owned and managed B2B enterprise (as defined in the BBBEE Act). - Operate within the manufacturing and engineering, food processing and supply chain, service delivery, technology hardware and supply, or retail and wholesale sectors. - Have an annual turnover between R1 million and R10 million - Have been in operation for over one year - Be SARS compliant and not undergoing business rescue or liquidation - Demonstrate a growth mindset and a commitment to fully participate in the 18-month programme. Entrepreneurs will undergo a six-stage application process, with only those who meet the requirements at each stage advancing to the next. Programme features Starting in June 2025, the programme provides a comprehensive support structure aimed at helping entrepreneurs strengthen financial and operational systems to confidently pursue funding. Key programme elements include: - Business diagnostic assessments to identify strengths, weaknesses, and growth opportunities - Financial health assessments to evaluate profitability, cash flow, and funding potential - One-on-one financial and business mentorship to implement tailored growth strategies - Specialist project support targeted to each enterprise's specific challenges. Participants will also have the opportunity to apply for innovative funding solutions as an outcome of their improved financial and operational foundations. Advancer Programme success stories: Young Peers, a civils and construction business, excelled in project execution but lacked key business skills in marketing, operations, and management. Through the programme, the business achieved major improvements in operational efficiency and transformed the founder from a technical expert into a well-rounded entrepreneur with critical business management skills. Coalition Energy, owned by Mariam Diedericks and based in Cape Town, faced challenges with inconsistent cash flow, outdated operations, and low client engagement. With the help of the programme, a clear sales and marketing strategy was developed. Sales training transformed the team's confidence and effectiveness, helping unlock new potential. The business is now focusing on expanding its client base, launching new services in the Renewable Energy Sector and Green Economy, and further optimising its operations. Star Centre George, owned by Kubeshnie Naidu, operates in the automotive sector. Despite having over 20 years' experience in motor body repair, Kubeshnie lacked formal business education, resulting in operational inefficiencies, stagnant revenue, and limited growth. Through the programme, interventions such as regular mentorship, performance assessments, SOP development, financial literacy training, and implementation of an OHS plan significantly improved strategic decision-making, financial management, staff productivity, and business sustainability. Interested in joining the SME Advancer Programme? Applications open Monday, 7 April 2025, and close on 2 May. Apply here! For general programme queries, contact the Edge Growth team at vharris@ Edge Growth specialises in developing small businesses and creating jobs and real transformation by connecting corporates and entrepreneurs, growing SMEs by addressing their key constraints: Access to finance, markets and skills. Its offering consists of three service areas, designed to achieve maximum impact: - ESD strategy for corporates and building SMEs in their value chain - Investing in and growing SMEs through fund management - Scaling businesses to full potential through accelerator programmes All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
25-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa:Trade Shield secures $826,253 from FNB's Vumela Fund
Trade Shield, a tech-driven company specialising in end-to-end credit risk management solutions, has raised R15m in funding from FNB's Vumela Enterprise Development Fund, in partnership with Edge Growth. Trade Shield says the funding will be used to unlock growth opportunities in South Africa and globally. Since its launch in 2023, Trade Shield has demonstrated growth, strong market demand, and the potential to scale as a SaaS-based business. The Vumela Fund was established in 2010 as a collaboration between FNB Business Banking and business development specialist Edge Growth to provide growth capital to Black-owned SMEs. Its objective is to invest in high-growth small and medium enterprises to support their development and expansion. "Trade Shield is an exciting business with a relevant and novel product offering that radically improves its customers' credit management processes. "They have an impressive management team, deep industry knowledge, and an innovative approach that is supported by a market with strong tailwinds. We are excited about the growth that our funding unlocks," says Sally Kitley, associate principal at Edge Growth. "The Trade Shield product demonstrates impact by showing how trade credit can unlock business growth. It is innovative, relevant, and value-adding to the businesses that use it." All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
