Applications Close Soon for the 2025 SME Growth Exporter Programme

South African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the export sector face unique challenges, but with the right support, these businesses can thrive on the global stage. Industry-led programmes that assist in navigating barriers, accessing funding, and building international networks can be game changers.

One such opportunity is the SME Growth Exporter Programme, launched in partnership with FNB and facilitated by business development experts, Edge Growth. This targeted initiative is designed to accelerate growth for black-owned exporting SMEs by offering access to skills development, market entry strategies, and funding readiness.

Applications are now open for the 2025 intake, and eligible businesses are encouraged to apply before the closing date on Sunday, 4 May 2025.

Designed for Export-Ready, Black-Owned SMEs

The programme specifically supports majority black-owned businesses (51% or more ownership) that are already exporting products within five key categories:

1. Food Products: Processed foods and fresh produce
2. Beverages: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic
3. Ready-to-Wear: Apparel and jewellery
4. Home Goods: Leather goods, gifting, and décor
5. Non-Prescription Health: Beauty, wellness, vitamins, and over-the-counter (OTC) health products

To qualify, SMEs must have an annual turnover of R40 million or less, possess at least three months of working capital, and be fully SARS-compliant. Additional requirements include no unresolved legal matters, not being enrolled in another development programme, and the availability of a senior manager or founder to participate fully over the 19-month duration.

What to Expect from the SME Growth Exporter Programme

The SME Growth Exporter Programme is structured in two phases and runs from 1 July 2025 to December 2026. It combines in-person and virtual sessions in a high-touch hybrid model, ensuring personalised support throughout the journey.

Participants will benefit from tailored interventions in three strategic areas:

1. Skills Development

Focused on practical export knowledge, logistics, certification requirements, and compliance, enabling SMEs to operate effectively across borders.

2. Market Access

SMEs receive support in identifying and penetrating viable international and regional markets, including trade readiness assessments, buyer introductions, and packaging improvements.

3. Funding Readiness

Through the Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) ecosystem created by FNB and Edge Growth, the programme prepares businesses to secure funding. Participants also gain access to innovative funding solutions for scaling their operations.

“Funding readiness is a crucial component of export success, enabling SMEs to scale operations, expand market reach, and overcome access barriers,” says Heather Lowe, Head of SME Development at FNB.

“That’s why we’ve developed this programme to deliver hands-on Business Development Support (BDS) to high-potential businesses across the country.”

Proven Success: Real Business Growth

The programme has already helped South African SMEs increase their global reach and local resilience. Here are just a few success stories:

Global Cuisine

Based in Montague Gardens, this halaal-certified frozen snack manufacturer expanded into two international markets with support from the programme. Assistance included CAPEX funding, digital branding, expert guidance, and regional market expansion.

NB Skin Science

A skincare brand with more than 20 years of experience, NB Skin Science achieved compliance for export into the EU and US. The programme also supported local growth through marketing assets, a sales strategy, and a micro-franchise model.

Rich Mnisi

The contemporary fashion brand enhanced its export operations through optimised online marketing, logistics partnerships, and better export costing. With the programme’s support, Rich Mnisi also launched a jewellery line, increasing product variety and market competitiveness.

Moedi Wines

This wine brand received help with export licensing, entered the USA and European markets, and built an e-commerce platform for global sales. The company also boosted local activations to support international trade.

Time Is Running Out – Apply Now to SME Growth Exporter Programme

Only 15 SMEs will be selected for this exclusive programme. If your business exports products in one of the five qualifying categories and meets the eligibility criteria, this could be the opportunity that unlocks your next phase of growth.

“At Edge Growth, we are committed to transformation and the development of small to medium businesses. That’s why we’ve partnered with FNB to offer this innovative programme, empowering South African black-owned exporters to grow and strengthen their international and regional trade,” says Susan Moloisane, CEO of Edge Growth Solutions.

Interested SMEs can apply on the Edge Growth Application portal.