Back the person who makes a great burger, before anyone else will.
If you know your trade and want to build a real business, we put in capital and a team alongside you from Day 1.
The first step others take for granted
Most people who start a business elsewhere have money from friends and family, a network and someone who has done it before. Most South African founders don't, and need capital and business skills at the same time, before they have the proof to attract either.
Capital and a team, from Day 1
Capital to start
A set-up loan for premises, stock and staff, repaid as a share of revenue.
A team behind you
Operating finance, people, growth and tech, run for you by the Venture Engine.
You run the business
Your team, your customers, your product, your decisions.
A long-term partner
We hold a minority stake and stay for the long term. We step aside when that is better for the business.
Know-how and the will to learn
| We look for | Real know-how in what you do, grit, and a business that serves everyday customers. |
|---|---|
| You need to be | Coachable, keen to learn and grow, and ready to share the business with partners. |
| You don't need | A polished pitch, ready books or a degree. We judge the founder and the model. |
| We don't back | Businesses that harm their communities, such as gambling. |
The humans who are doing it
From day labourer to farm manager
Steven Phoku started at Ezulwini as a day labourer on early earthworks. He now runs daily operations at the Dullstroom farm, on a path to farm ownership.
From a call-centre salary to a factory floor
Uniformitys started on a call-centre salary. It is now a local manufacturer making school uniforms for township schools in Kabokweni.
Tell us what you want to build
A few lines is enough. We read every one.