Masisizane Fund — Kayzi
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Masisizane Fund

Development finance for black-owned SMEs. R1 billion disbursed since 2007. Focus on businesses with operational substance.

FundingR50,000 – R5,000,000
TypeLoan (below-market rates) + business support
FunderOld Mutual (Unclaimed Share Schemes Trust)
DeadlineRolling (applications open year-round)
Overview

Masisizane Fund was established in 2007 from the Old Mutual Unclaimed Share Schemes Trust. It provides below-market-rate finance and business development support to black-owned SMEs — with a strong track record: R1 billion disbursed, 400+ businesses supported, 13,000 jobs created.

This is not easy money. The fund targets businesses with operational substance — 51%+ black ownership, shareholders actively involved full-time, and viable financials. The business development support is a key differentiator: Masisizane provides mentorship and technical assistance alongside the finance.

Kayzi Advisory NoteHigh-credibility private development fund. 65% women-owned, 24% youth-owned in portfolio. Excellent fit for black-owned businesses with some trading history that are not yet bankable.
Key Focus Areas

Business Substance · Financial Visibility · Founder Readiness

Who qualifies
  • 51%+ black ownership (naturalised South African citizens included)
  • Shareholders actively involved in the business full-time (not passive)
  • Business is registered (CIPC, SARS)
  • Business is trading or has a credible revenue path
  • Viable business plan with realistic financials
  • Able to service the debt based on projected cashflow
Who does not qualify
  • Idea-stage or pre-revenue businesses with no traction
  • Business is not majority black-owned (51%+)
  • Shareholders are not actively involved full-time
  • Weak or non-existent financial systems
  • Incomplete or unrealistic business plans
  • Businesses already in default or under liquidation
Common rejection reasonIncomplete business plans; weak financial systems; poor operational management; unclear repayment capacity.
Key requirements

CIPC registration, SARS compliance, proof of black ownership (share certificates or ID documents), 6–12 months bank statements, management accounts or financial statements, and a business plan with clear use of funds and repayment projections.

How to apply

Apply through the Masisizane Fund website or contact their offices directly. The fund operates nationally with offices in Johannesburg.

Visit masisizanefund.co.za for the online application or to request an assessment.

Apply now →

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