The Imbali For Her Programme stands as a groundbreaking women-focused enterprise development initiative launched to increase women’s participation in South Africa’s economy. The programme specifically supports women entrepreneurs across all sectors by combining financial assistance with business development support, creating a strong ecosystem for sustainable business growth. The initiative invests approximately R897 million and aims to support nearly 975 women-owned enterprises nationwide.
What Is the Imbali For Her Programme?
Imbali For Her offers more than traditional funding. The programme provides women entrepreneurs with both financial and non-financial business support. The initiative was after consulting more than 4,500 women entrepreneurs across South Africa. These consultations helped shape support solutions that directly address the challenges women face when starting, growing, and scaling businesses.
The programme also promotes inclusive economic participation by supporting women-owned enterprises in urban, township, peri-urban, and rural communities. In addition, the initiative gives special consideration to women entrepreneurs living with disabilities.
Funding Available Through Imbali For Her
One of the programme’s most attractive features is its funding of up to R5 million for each qualifying enterprise. The programme uses a blended finance model that combines loans and grants according to the business’s development stage, funding needs, and viability assessment.
Successful applicants may also benefit from concessional financing rates. The programme allows approved businesses to access funding at Prime less 3%, while women entrepreneurs with disabilities may qualify for funding at Prime less 5%.
Successful applicants may also benefit from concessional financing rates. The programme allows approved businesses to access funding at Prime less 3%, while women entrepreneurs with disabilities may qualify for funding at Prime less 5%.
Who Can Apply to the imbali for her grant?
The Imbali For Her Programme is open to women-owned enterprises operating across all sectors of the South African economy. To qualify, businesses must generally meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 51% black female-owned.
- The female owner must play an active role in the management and operations of the business.
- Be formally registered and compliant with South African regulations.
- Be tax compliant and operating legally within South Africa.
- Demonstrate business viability and growth potential.
Furthermore, businesses operating in sectors with strong job creation potential and community impact may receive additional consideration during the evaluation process.
More Than Funding: Business Development Support
Unlike many traditional funding programmes, Imbali For Her provides a holistic support package designed to improve long-term business sustainability. Successful applicants gain access to:
- Business development support
- Entrepreneurship training
- Skills development programmes
- Mentorship and coaching
- Networking opportunities
- Market access support
- Business growth guidance
As a result, beneficiaries receive not only financial assistance but also the knowledge, resources, and support needed to build resilient and competitive businesses.
Focus on Rural, Township, and Disabled Women Entrepreneurs
The programme has a strong focus on economic inclusion. Notably, 50% of all beneficiary opportunities are reserved for women entrepreneurs operating in townships and rural areas. Additionally, 8% of programme beneficiaries are allocated to women-owned enterprises led by women with disabilities.
Therefore, Imbali For Her plays a critical role in addressing funding gaps and promoting equitable economic participation across South Africa.
Why Women Entrepreneurs Should Consider the Imbali for her grant
Access to finance remains one of the biggest challenges facing women-owned businesses. However, many entrepreneurs require more than capital alone. They also need mentorship, business skills, strategic guidance, and access to markets.
Consequently, the Imbali For Her Programme provides a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs to secure both funding and comprehensive business support under a single programme. By combining financial assistance with enterprise development interventions, the programme helps women-owned businesses become more competitive, sustainable, and growth-oriented.
How Dream Team Capital Can Help
Applying for funding programmes such as Imbali For Her requires professional preparation and strong supporting documentation. Dream Team Capital assists women entrepreneurs with:
- Professional business plans
- Funding applications
- Financial projections and cash flow forecasts
- Company profiles
- Pitch decks
- Funding readiness assessments
- Compliance preparation
Furthermore, our team helps businesses position themselves strategically to maximise approval prospects and secure the funding needed for growth.
If you are planning to apply for the Imbali For Her Programme, contact Dream Team Capital today. We can help you prepare a compelling funding application and ensure your business is ready to take advantage of this exciting opportunity for women-owned enterprises in South Africa.