The Isivande Women’s Fund (IWF) is an exclusive fund implemented by the Identity Development Fund Managers that aims to accelerate women’s economic empowerment by providing more affordable, usable and responsive finance than is currently available and thus accelerate the economic empowerment of women. The IWF targets formally registered, 60% women-owned and/or managed enterprises that have been in existence and operating for two or more years with a loan range of R30 000 to R2 million. DTC can assist with access to, and the required developments for the Isivande Women’s Fund (IWF) business funding.
The IWF assists with support services to enhance the success of businesses. It pursues deals involving start-up funding, business expansion, business rehabilitation, franchising and bridging finance.
The Fund is managed by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) on behalf of the dti through a development fund manager.
IDF Managers is an SME financier aimed at supporting the creation of self-sustaining black and women owned businesses in South Africa by providing primarily financial and non-financial support to our investee companies.
The Isivande Women’s Fund (IWF)
Black women are often the most marginalised and under-resourced group in South Africa, yet many act like breadwinners in the home. Starting a business is a challenge for anyone but black entrepreneurs and women in particular face many barriers to accessing business and financial support.
Government aims to assist aspiring female small business owners through the IWF, which is administrated through the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti).
Female entrepreneurs are growing in numbers, but without access to appropriate funding many start-ups will find it difficult to grow their businesses, regardless of whether there’s a man or woman at the helm. Fortunately, access to funds for female entrepreneurs is improving thanks to government and private enterprises.
Funding Criteria for Isivande Women’s Fund (IWF) business funding
The women enterprises have to meet the following criteria:
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- At least 6 months in operation;
- Requires early stage, expansions and growth capital;
- Formally registered enterprises that have 50% plus one share owned and managed by women;
- Have potential for growth and commercial sustainability; and
- Improved social impact in the form of job creation.
At DTC, we understand the complexities of the various funding agencies and the unique application criteria for each. We have assisted thousands of entrepreneurs through the application process to access funding for businesses, and we can assist you with the same.
Contact us for more information on Isivande Women’s Fund (IWF) business funding.