Beyond Traditional Loans: Alternative SME Financing Models

SMEs need financing that is fit for purpose and crafted based on the realities these enterprises face. Traditional SME loans often require established credit histories or collateral requirements that many MSMEs don't have or impose interest rates and loan tenors not suitable for the sector. Additionally, accessing finance in local currency is critical for MSME growth and stability, but can often be more costly or challenging to access in come cases. These challenges present a huge financing gap that offers an untapped opportunity for innovative alternative forms of financing.

This panel will look at new financing vehicles, innovative fintechs, and other new models for unlocking appropriate financing that enable MSMEs to thrive.

Speakers

Keegan Ziady

Keegan Ziady

Investment Director, Financial Services Platforms & Partnerships, British International Investment

Kelvin Teo

Kelvin Teo

Co-founder, Funding Societies

Mukul Agrawal

Mukul Agrawal

Vice President, Nucleus Software Exports Limited

Nick Riley

Nick Riley

Investment Director, Lendable

Moderator

Cleola Kunene

Cleola Kunene

Executive Head of SME Development, JSE