SA SME Fund

ProfitShare Partners is a South Africa–based fintech that provides short-term capital to small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs. The company uses technology and artificial intelligence to accelerate financing and deliver transaction-specific funding secured by purchase orders or contracts. Through a profit-sharing business model, it partners with SMEs to enable them to fulfill large orders, win contracts with reputable organizations, and accelerate growth while maintaining operational control. The approach combines fast provisioning, diligent vetting, and risk management to support early-stage businesses and promote inclusive economic growth.

Grindstone, founded in 2013 and based in Cape Town, South Africa, is a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage businesses across various sectors. It operates a structured entrepreneurship development program designed to assist high-growth, innovation-driven companies in establishing essential building blocks for rapid scaling, sustainability, and securing funding. In addition to its investment activities, Grindstone runs accelerator programs that offer mentoring, networking opportunities, and access to markets, further supporting the growth and development of participating companies.

Founded in 2013, LiquidGold specializes in manufacturing waterless urinal waste systems. These systems collect and recycle urine into urea or bio-friendly fertilizer for agricultural use, conserving water, reducing maintenance costs, and improving hygiene.

SmartBlade is a medical device company focused on enhancing airway management by providing a novel solution for intubating difficult airways. The company has developed a device that integrates advanced smartphone application technology with video laryngoscopy, enabling a seamless video feed of the airway for clinicians. This innovative design allows single operators of varying skill levels to effectively manage challenging intubations while performing essential tasks, such as suctioning a soiled airway or administering apnoeic oxygenation, without disrupting the intubation process. SmartBlade's technology aims to make video laryngoscopy accessible to all clinicians, regardless of their economic conditions or experience levels, thereby improving patient care in critical situations.

Spartan SME Finance (Pty) Ltd, established in 1981 and based in Johannesburg, South Africa, specializes in providing financing solutions for small and mid-sized enterprises. As a non-bank finance company, Spartan focuses on offering growth finance, specialized asset finance, and working capital finance tailored for entrepreneurs. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including agribusiness, manufacturing, technology, education, healthcare, and various professional services. With a commitment to supporting growth-oriented businesses, Spartan operates as an authorized financial services provider, dedicated to fostering the development of small and growing enterprises.