Black-owned agro-processing businesses in South Africa are going to get help to scale their operations through a combination of financial support, mentorship and business development expertise, thanks to a partnership between Edge Growth, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) development specialist and venture fund manager, and First National Bank (FNB).
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
The Agro Processor Scale-Up Programme is a newly launched initiative aimed at equipping agro-processing SMEs with the operational, technological and strategic capabilities needed to grow sustainably and compete in increasingly demanding markets.
Applications for the programme are now open and close on Sunday, 31 May 2026.
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Driving Growth in Agro-processing
Edge Growth specialises in supporting small businesses by addressing major growth constraints such as access to finance, markets and skills. Through this partnership with FNB, the organisation hopes to strengthen South Africa’s agro-processing sector while creating opportunities for black-owned enterprises to expand and access higher-value supply chains.
Heather Lowe, Head of SME Development at FNB Business, said many black-owned agro-processors still struggle to access the type of support required for meaningful growth.
“South Africa’s agro-processing sector is rich with potential, but many black-owned businesses are still excluded from the kind of support that enables meaningful scale,” said Lowe.
“Through this partnership, we want to ensure that these entrepreneurs not only access capital but also gain the specialised operational and technological capabilities required to compete confidently in a fast-evolving market.”
Also read: Agro-processing emerges as a growth engine, but the workforce must evolve
AI and Smart Technology at the Centre
A major focus of the programme is helping agro-processing businesses integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and digital systems into their operations.
According to the programme partners, agro-processing SMEs can no longer afford to ignore advanced technologies if they want to remain competitive in a market increasingly driven by efficiency, data and consistency.
Within agro-processing, AI technologies can assist businesses to optimise production, reduce waste, improve quality control and respond more effectively to changing consumer demands. Businesses still relying solely on manual systems may face higher operational costs, slower turnaround times and inconsistent output.
The programme will give participating companies practical exposure to AI-driven tools and systems that can improve decision-making, strengthen operational management and support scalable growth.
“AI and digital tools are no longer optional for growing businesses,” Lowe added. “They are essential enablers of efficiency, consistency and long-term sustainability.”
Also read: R100 million fund to boost transformation in Gauteng’s agro-processing sector
Who Qualifies?
The programme targets majority black-owned agro-processing SMEs with annual turnover between R10 million and R30 million.
Eligible businesses include companies involved in processing or manufacturing products from agricultural raw materials such as:
- Dried food products
- Food oils
- Fruit and vegetables
- Dairy products
- Meat and poultry
- Spices and grains
Applicants must also meet additional requirements, including:
- Minimum 51% black ownership
- Availability of founders or directors to participate fully in the programme
- At least three months of working capital
- Compliance with South African Revenue Service (SARS) requirements
- Consent to credit and background checks
- Commitment to the full 18-month programme
Structured Support over 18 Months
The programme will run from July 2026 to December 2027 and will combine in-person boot camps with online mentorship and specialist support.
The scaling journey will begin with a baseline diagnostic assessment to evaluate each business and identify areas requiring improvement. Participants will then receive monthly coaching from experienced operators and industry experts, supported by customised AI tools.
Further programme phases will include specialist operational projects, strategic support, skills development boot camps and continuous monitoring to track progress and provide tailored assistance.
Also read: R1.5 million peanut butter factory handed to KZN entrepreneur — and 60 women are reaping the rewards
Unlocking the Sector’s Potential
South Africa’s agro-processing sector contributes more than 10.3% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and includes businesses ranging from micro enterprises to large-scale manufacturers.
Despite this contribution, the sector still has significant untapped potential as a result of large volumes of underutilised agricultural produce and ongoing demand for value-added products.
Agro-processing SMEs also play an important role in job creation, rural development and linking smallholder farmers to formal markets. However, many businesses face structural barriers that limit their ability to scale and compete effectively.
Only seven medium-sized agro-processing businesses will ultimately be selected for the programme.
More information and application details are available on the Edge Growth Agro Processor Scale-Up Programme page.
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