The phenomenon of “Impact investing”, investments with the intention to generate social and environmental impact alongside a financial return, is growing rapidly in South Africa. It is increasingly recognised that entrepreneurs will have an extraordinary influence on both the South African economy and solving what have previously appeared to be intractable social challenges.
Despite this realisation, finding and securing investment opportunities in South Africa, is difficult. Investors have reported that the lack of “investable opportunities” with a track record is a key major constraint to scaling the impact investing industry. Entrepreneurs that are focused on addressing the energy, water, waste, food security and other climate adaptation/change issues are not only critical to the environment, but also to creating a more inclusive socially just country. Yet, these businesses like many others also face a broad spectrum of issues when trying to scale their businesses.
Eligibility
- The programme is not for idea stage entrepreneurs who are yet to generate revenue in their businesses. The primary criteria that will be used to shortlist the applicants will include, but not be exclusive to:
- The strength and experience of the management team and the precedent set by the team in terms of co-operation, achieving business goals, as well as developing a cohesive value proposition;
- Ability of the business to be commercially viable and create long term and sustainable value through social/environmental impact;
- The environmental issue the business is addressing. How material is this issue and what impact will the business have on it;
- Is the business model scalable and replicable i.e. has a business model that can be followed in different geographies; and
- Likelihood of the business to benefit from the programme and support other businesses participating?
Other things to know
The programme will offer entrepreneurs the skills, knowledge, documentation and support required to secure investment for their businesses. The Programme addresses:
- Constructing an Impact Case;
- Market access, sales and distribution;
- Strategic planning;
- Financial modelling and planning;
- Writing an Investment case to secure funding;
- Pitching to investors; and
- Connecting with partners in the business ecosystem, including multinational companies, NGOs and governments.
Deadline: November 15, 2015
To apply and for more information visit here
