National Empowerment Fund
Government fundJohannesburg · Seed–Growth
Investment thesis
The NEF exists to advance Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment in South Africa, helping black individuals, communities and businesses meet the elements of the Codes of Good Practice, including preferential procurement, broadening black equity ownership, and transformation in management and staff. It differentiates itself through a focused B-BBEE mandate and by taking predominantly equity-based risk to maximise the 'Empowerment Dividend', balancing risk with sound commercial decisions aligned to national priorities and government policy such as the dtic's Industrial Policy Framework. As a Development Finance Institution, it collaborates with other DFIs, contributing specialist sector and B-BBEE expertise to support industrialisation and economic transformation.
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 channelWoman and Youth-Owned Business Spotlight | Eggsellent by Lebo
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
A spotlight on the NEF Empowered investee: Ziphiwo Group
NEF - National Empowerment Fund Youtube
From 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
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