NEF calls for inclusive funding to unlock growth for SMEs

The National Empowerment Fund (NEF) has urged for a more accessible and responsive funding ecosystem in South Africa, emphasizing the need to remove structural barriers that continue to hinder entrepreneurs.

Represented by its General Counsel, Ms. Karishma Govender, the NEF participated at the 2026 Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference panel discussion titled “Inclusive Funding: Ensuring Entrepreneurs Are Not Left Behind.” The session, moderated by renowned broadcaster Clement Manyathela, brought together key leaders from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and the NEF.

The panellists examined how South Africa’s funding institutions can better support entrepreneurs — widely recognised as critical drivers of economic growth and job creation — who often face significant obstacles when seeking capital and business support.
Ms Govender highlighted both structural and informational challenges that prevent many entrepreneurs from accessing finance.
“Inclusive funding is not only about providing capital, but also about creating enabling ecosystems that support sustainable business growth, resilience, innovation and job creation,” she said.

ALSO READ: PAYSTACK UNVEILS NEW SUPPORT PACKAGE FOR NIGERIAN SMEs

The discussion centered on practical approaches to making funding more accessible and inclusive for entrepreneurs. Participants explored ways to remove barriers that often limit access to funding opportunities, while emphasizing the need to build stronger support systems that extend beyond financial assistance alone. Attention was also given to improving funding readiness by encouraging better business planning and preparation at the early stages of enterprise development.

The conversation further addressed common misconceptions surrounding funding requirements and application processes, which often discourage entrepreneurs from seeking available opportunities.

Participants also highlighted the importance of leveraging procurement opportunities as a pathway for sustainable business growth and called for the development of a broader and more diverse funding ecosystem capable of reaching underserved entrepreneurs and creating more equitable access to resources.

As a development finance institution, the NEF reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to funding, particularly for black-owned businesses, and supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their growth journey.

“By fostering inclusive economic participation and sustainable enterprise development, the NEF continues to play a critical role in driving transformation and economic growth in South Africa,” the organisation stated.