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GDARD/NEF Agro-Processing Blended Finance Programme | Apply Now

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The National Empowerment Fund (NEF), in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD), invites black-owned and managed agro-processing enterprises to apply for funding under the GDARD/NEF Agro-Processing Blended Finance Programme. Applications close 22 May 2026.

Programme Objectives

The initiative aims to promote value-addition across agricultural value chains, support inclusive participation of Black-owned enterprises (with preference for women, youth, and persons with disabilities), facilitate market access and food security, and drive job creation within Gauteng’s agro-industrial ecosystem.

Funding Structure

Successful applicants receive blended finance comprising:

  • 50% Grant Funding (non-repayable portion from GDARD)
  • 50% Concessional Loan (funded by GDARD/NEF at preferential interest rates)

Maximum combined funding: R10 million per project, subject to viability and due diligence outcomes.

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must:

  • Be incorporated under the Companies Act (2008) or Co-operatives Act (2005)
  • Be at least 51% Black-owned and managed
  • Operate within agro-processing, value-adding, or marketing segments (food, beverages, grains, fruit, vegetables, meat, herbs, chilli, hemp, cannabis, timber processing)
  • Have or secure offtake agreements with credible buyers
  • Be actively operating within Gauteng Province

Mandatory Documentation

Key submission requirements include:

  • Board resolution authorising the application and naming signatories
  • Signed Personal Assets & Liabilities and Income & Expenditure forms
  • Detailed business plan
  • CIPC registration, share certificates, and BBBEE certificate
  • Valid SARS Tax Clearance PIN, COIDA, UIF, and Municipal Business Licence
  • Lease agreement (minimum 24 months) or title deed
  • Supplier and offtake agreements or market assessment report

Information Session Webinar

A compulsory information session webinar takes place on 23 April 2026. Attendance is strongly recommended for all prospective applicants before submitting proposals. The session covers programme objectives, qualifying criteria, application procedures, and guidance on completing the funding application.

Related opportunity: Apply Now: Africa’s Business Heroes 2026 Offers $300k in Grants

Application Window and Submission

Application period: 21 April 2026 to 22 May 2026

All applications must be submitted electronically via the GDARD/NEF portal. No hard-copy submissions will be accepted.

Enquiries: info@nefcorp.co.za | mduduzi.ndlovu@gauteng.gov.za | fikile.mokgadi@gauteng.gov.za

Apply at: www.nefcorp.co.za

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