The ongoing efforts of the NEF and fellow DFIs as well as other industry research reveal that most black entrepreneurs are still faced with challenges and still lack the creditworthiness to raise business capital. As a consequence they cannot pursue growth opportunities or bid for preferential contracts to develop their enterprises into substantial and sustainable businesses.

Realising that BEE still has a long way to go, and that BEE funding mechanisms must evolve with market realities, the NEF continuosly review its strategy and operations to find quicker, more efficient methods and product development initiatives through which to deliver on its mandate of furthering BEE.

In order to more effectively serve the demands on an evolving BEE financing market, the NEF’s core business was split between Fund and Asset Management divisions. These are supported by operational and logistic functions such as HR, marketing and communications, finance and legal services. A “cradle to grave” philosophy was introduced to streamline processing of applications and investments. A distinct unit now manages pre-investment screening, with a post-investment team monitoring and mentoring the invested portfolio's sustainability. This approach structures and focuses NEF expertise for maximum functionality.

Evolving to meet market needs

 

The NEF will go on evolving as the economic environment – and the needs of black entrepreneurs and organisations – continue to change. To achieve mid-term goals, the NEF’s mission will be guided in terms of the following key themes:

 

• Amending funding products and criteria  as the BB-BEE environment evolves.

• Unlocking private sector co funding, particularly in terms of the Codes of Good Practice.

• Developing retail saving and investment products that match consumer demands.

• Providing funds for strategic projects.

• Establishing close relationships with private sector funders such as commercial banks.

• Effectively marketing the NEF’s fund and asset management offerings