Edge Growth and FNB Launch Agro-Processing Programme to Help Black-Owned SMEs Scale
Edge Growth and FNB Launch Agro-Processing Programme to Help Black-Owned SMEs Scale. Edge Growth and First National Bank have launched a new development programme aimed at supporting black-owned agro-processing businesses seeking to expand their operations and strengthen long-term competitiveness.
The Agro Processor Scale-Up Programme forms part of the companies’ ongoing partnership focused on small and medium-sized enterprise development in South Africa. The initiative is designed to provide selected agro-processing businesses with mentorship, operational support and access to growth-focused business development tools.
Applications for the programme are now open and will close on 31 May 2026.
According to the organisers, the programme will target majority black-owned agro-processing SMEs with annual revenue between R10 million and R30 million. Eligible businesses must process or manufacture products derived from agricultural raw materials, including dairy products, dried food goods, fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, grains, spices and food oils.
The 18-month programme is scheduled to run from July 2026 until December 2027 and will combine in-person bootcamps, online mentorship and specialist operational support.
Heather Lowe, head of SME development at FNB Business, said the partnership aims to help businesses gain access not only to funding opportunities, but also to the operational and technological capabilities needed to compete in a changing market.
Lowe said many black-owned agro-processing businesses continue to face barriers that limit their ability to scale despite the sector’s growth potential.
The programme will include business diagnostics, coaching from industry specialists and support with integrating artificial intelligence and digital systems into operations.
Organisers said participants will receive practical guidance on improving management systems, financial discipline, operational efficiency and business-to-business opportunities.
The initiative also places strong emphasis on technology adoption within the agro-processing industry, where companies are increasingly under pressure to improve efficiency, reduce waste and respond more quickly to changing consumer demand.
According to the programme details, selected businesses will receive customised AI-driven support tools aimed at improving decision-making and operational performance.
The programme will begin with an assessment phase to evaluate each company’s operational needs before moving into structured coaching, skills development and specialist business improvement projects.
Applicants must have at least three months of working capital available, comply with South African Revenue Service requirements and consent to credit and background checks.
A maximum of seven medium-sized agro-processing businesses will be selected for the programme.
Organisers said the initiative is intended to support job creation, strengthen SME participation in value-added markets and improve the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s agro-processing sector.
