National Empowerment Fund
Government fundJohannesburg · Seed–Growth
Investment thesis
The NEF is a South African state-owned development finance institution focused on driving black economic empowerment and inclusive economic growth. It offers a range of funding vehicles including the iMbewu Fund, uMnotho Fund, Women Empowerment Fund, and Rural, Township and Community Development Fund, spanning entrepreneurship, acquisition, new venture, expansion, and capital markets finance. Alongside capital, it provides non-financial business support and sector-specific programs in areas such as tourism, arts and culture, film and television, and furniture. Its stated vision is to become a leading provider of innovative transformation solutions for an economically inclusive South Africa.
Source: firm website, verified Aug 7, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
- What stage does National Empowerment Fund invest at?
- National Empowerment Fund invests at the Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C, Growth stages.
- What sectors does National Empowerment Fund focus on?
- National Empowerment Fund focuses on Impact & Social Good, Sector Agnostic.
- Where is National Empowerment Fund located?
- National Empowerment Fund is headquartered in Johannesburg, ZA.
Media · Podcasts & interviews
from their channelFrom Farm to Factory: NEF CEO at Manufacturing Indaba 2026
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
NEF Investee Spotlight | Dynamic Greenovations: Youth-Owned Innovation Driving Sustainable Energy
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
Policy Dialogue - Mr Joel Mphela
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
Youth-Owned Business Spotlight | Eggsellent by Lebo
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
♻️ Young Entrepreneurs Investee Spotlight | Youth Month 2026
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
At the NEF, funding is only the beginning
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
Similar investors
Collaborative Fund is an investment firm that provides capital to ventures and ideas it views as advancing the world, and it publishes a blog and podcast series featuring conversations with investors.
Innovestor is a Nordic investment group operating across venture capital, life science, real estate, energy storage, and corporate venturing platforms, and is among the most active early-stage investors in the region.
Oltre Impact is an Italian impact investing firm that since its first investment vehicle in 2006 has backed companies whose business models intentionally address social or environmental challenges.
InBC is a strategic investment fund that backs British Columbia businesses and funds capable of generating financial returns while contributing to the province's economic and employment growth.