Equity Investment

IFC SME Ventures

World Bank Group (International Donor)

IFC SME Ventures is a equity investment from World Bank Group offering between R 10 000 000 and R 100 000 000 for growth, established businesses across South Africa. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Overview

Growth equity from World Bank-backed funds for established SMEs ready to scale.

Funding AmountR 10 000 000 - R 100 000 000
CoverageNational
Business StageGrowth, Established

Programme details last updated on 12 December 2025.

Full Description

Equity investments in high-growth SMEs through IFC-backed fund managers in South Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

Min. Annual TurnoverR 20 000 000
Min. Years Trading3 years

Frequently Asked Questions

How much funding does IFC SME Ventures offer?

IFC SME Ventures offers between R 10 000 000 and R 100 000 000 per applicant.

Who qualifies for IFC SME Ventures?

IFC SME Ventures targets growth, established businesses across South Africa. Applicants need a minimum annual turnover of R 20 000 000, at least 3 years of trading history.

When is the deadline for IFC SME Ventures?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

How do I apply for IFC SME Ventures?

Check your eligibility with the free readiness check on Okhantu, prepare the required documents, then apply on the provider's website.

Prepare Your Application

Increase your chances of success with these preparation resources.

Pro tip:Run the Readiness Checker before applying. It identifies gaps in your documentation and helps you prepare a stronger application.

Get funding-ready

Prepare a funding application pack

A complete, human-reviewed application pack for SEDFA (formerly SEFA), NEF, NYDA, or a bank, formatted to the funder's requirements.

Build funding pack

A business plan written for the credit committee

SEDFA, NEF, the IDC and the banks assess affordability, security, own contribution and developmental impact. Structured the way they read it.

Get the funding plan

Add another sector or province

Extend a Market Intelligence Report to a second market at a fraction of a second report, merged so the two can be compared side by side.

Add a market

See what funding you qualify for

A free 2-minute readiness check that matches you to grants and funders you look like a fit for.

Check my funding fit
IFC SME Ventures | FundingOS | Okhantu