Business Partners Launches USD 4 M Fund For Women Entrepreneurs In SA

Business Partners Ltd, one of South Africa’s leading SME financiers, has launched the ZAR 90 M (USD 4 M) Basadi-Women Growth Fund to expand access to capital for women entrepreneurs shut out by traditional lenders.

The fund offers tailored financing between ZAR 250 K and ZAR 5 M, supporting needs such as property acquisition, working capital, equipment purchases, business takeovers and franchise ownership.

What differentiates the fund is its flexible structure. Beneficiaries can opt for interest capitalisation or a repayment moratorium of up to six months, a rarity in South Africa’s SME finance landscape. Business Partners says the goal is to unlock both capital and capability, combining funding with mentorship, technical support and access to entrepreneurial networks.

Regional investment manager René Botha said empowering women-owned SMEs is critical for job creation, community impact and sustained economic growth. Applications for the Basadi-Women Growth Fund are now open.