📈 Launching our 2nd Annual Impact Report! 16 Years of SME Impact 🙌
Last Friday marked yet another proud milestone for us at Edge Growth; the launch of our 2nd impact report and a celebration of 16 years of championing small business development!
We celebrated this momentous occasion with our fellow impact visionaries - our partners, ESD industry leaders, and SMEs who’re driving change in their respective sectors.
The report revealed incredible achievements that took place over the 2024 year 💥
✔️Over R216 million was deployed into the SME landscape this past year, the highest deployment year to date for Edge Growth!
✔️ A 77% increase in funding compared to last year, with innovative funding solutions like venture debt and customised funds addressing unique SME challenges
✔️ More than 2000 jobs were created by our portfolio SMEs (focusing on sustainable growth and reduced cost-per-job metrics)
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS 👇
🎤 A keynote address (by Mandla Mbuyazi) explored how collaboration and partnerships beyond financial capital can break down barriers, unlock opportunities, and drive sustainable progress for SMEs.
🧑🤝🧑 2 of our portfolio SMEs (Sammy Rabolele & Chantal Winnaar) shared their powerful growth trajectories - demonstrating how resilience and determination, coupled with the right business growth support contributes to sustained success and economic development of communities.
🕴️Edge Growth Executives Janice Johnston, Susan Moloisane & Sharlen Chetty CA(SA) explored the role of innovative funding solutions and tailored mentorship programmes as key drivers of SME growth.
🌐 Lauren Reddy-Gebers reported on behalf of the Edge Growth Blue Skies business unit on how the Impact Finance Network partnership with Anglo American South Africa, Impact Capital Africa and Edge Growth has supported over 80 businesses, created 28,000 jobs, and unlocked $49,3 million in funding in the African SME ecosystem since its inception in 2021.
2024 has been incredibly rewarding, yet a rollercoaster ride! Following this year's success, upping our ante will be an exciting yet daunting challenge. Above all else, we remain committed to our mission of creating SME prosperity in 2025 and beyond! ✨
🟢 Download the full copy of our 2024 Impact Report here 👉 <https://bit.ly/3ZjbnrS>