A new information guide has just been launched for South African entrepreneurs who wish to secure funding for their business. The package, which includes a step-by-step guide and directory of financiers, will empower entrepreneurs to steer their funding process with confidence.

The ‘Get Funded DIY Kit’ was launched by Funding Connection, which has identified a significant challenge for SA entrepreneurs. Funding Connection owner, Dagmar Breiling, who has worked as a Funding Strategist in SA for many years and has over 20 years of international business experience, has created the information guide to give business owners the essential knowledge they need to secure funding.  Every year more than R25-billion is available from the funding institutions as grants, loans and incentives to companies in South Africa.

Unfortunately, most applications to the funding agencies are declined. The process of applying for funding is daunting and confusing for most entrepreneurs. There are so many different funds and financiers in South Africa, each with their own mandate, qualification criteria and application process. Entrepreneurs also have a tough time choosing between Government grants, Government loans, bank loans, equity investors and other options. Organisations like The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), National Empowerment Fund (NEF), and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) are there to assist South African entrepreneurs, yet very few business owners have the time or capacity to survey the entire funding landscape.

This is the key service offering by Funding Connection. But for business owners who steer their funding process, there has not been any guide available up to now, so the company set out to create this information package to help such entrepreneurs. In effect, it will save business owners hundreds of hours in research and dramatically improve their chances of securing funding. The package consists of a guidebook and directory of financiers. The guidebook is designed to lead the entrepreneur through the process from assessing their business idea to the different funding options and how to weigh up their best options. The directory includes details of financiers in all the major categories from the Government grant and loan programs to commercial banks, and equity funders, and includes descriptions of their lending products and programs.

For additional help, Funding Connection has included a 10-point checklist to inform business owners of all they need before applying for funding. Ms Breiling is passionate about growing the South African economy through the development of small business. She is confident that this package will provide valuable guidance to start-ups as well as established businesses that wish to secure funding. 

About Funding Connection:

Funding Connection assists companies accessing loans, grants and incentives from the major funding agencies, commercial banks and equity partners in South Africa. The company holds educational workshops and their services include assessments, business plans and advice and support to submit successful applications. They not only advise applicants on the best possible programs but guide them through the entire process.

For more information, please contact Funding Connection 031 761 4203 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.fundingconnection.co.za