Seed Engine

Seed Engine, established in 2012 as an innovative ICT accelerator, has emerged as a prominent force in promoting economic inclusivity in South Africa.

The organisation firmly upholds the belief that entrepreneurs play a vital role in driving economic growth and shaping future job opportunities. With unwavering dedication, Seed Engine aims to provide the necessary support and financial backing to empower resilient entrepreneurs in building thriving, sustainable, and scalable businesses that contribute to the prosperity of South Africa.

Their unwavering commitment lies in advocating tirelessly for entrepreneurs to gain access to markets and funding avenues. Through strategic collaborations with clients, ecosystem stakeholders, and both public and private sectors, Seed Engine offers unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs to penetrate and thrive in the market. By working closely with these partners, Seed Engine develops customised programs that align with their transformation objectives, ensuring a substantial return on investment for all stakeholders involved.

From vision to success: How Seed Engine's core values ignite entrepreneurial talent

At the core of Seed Engine's operations are their values that drive their commitment to empower entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and stimulate economic growth. By upholding these values, Seed Engine creates an environment that nurtures entrepreneurial talent and propels them towards success.

Maximising returns and impact: Seed Engine's strategic allies, WDBIH and Grovest

Seed Engine's trajectory is greatly influenced by its strategic partners and shareholders, namely WDB Investment Holdings (WDBIH) and Grovest. WDBIH holds a prominent position as a key player in empowering women in South Africa, overseeing a wide-ranging portfolio of investments spanning multiple sectors, both listed and unlisted. With a dedicated mission to promote the progress of women across their investments, WDBIH manages a substantial total assets under management of R6 billion. Notably, they have successfully repatriated approximately R200 million in dividends to the WDB Trust, solidifying their commitment to fostering financial growth and empowerment.

Grovest, as the pioneering Venture Capital Company (VCC) in South Africa operating under Section 12J of the Income Tax Act, presents investors with a unique avenue to engage with the dynamic venture capital sector. By investing through Grovest, individuals have the chance to offset a significant portion, up to 100%, of their investment capital against taxable income during the year of investment. This advantageous tax incentive provides a compelling opportunity for investors seeking direct exposure to this rapidly evolving space. Additionally, Grovest plays a pivotal role in ensuring Seed Engine's adherence to governance standards and provides valuable support in administrative management.

Seed Engine takes pride in its association with Seed Academy, a vital component of their ecosystem. Seed Academy's purpose is to ignite women and youth entrepreneurs, unlocking their potential to lead high-growth businesses and drive economic growth. As a level 2 BEE and black women-owned organization through WDBIH, Seed Academy boasts a remarkable nine-year track record in entrepreneur development. Over 900 entrepreneurs who have completed their programs have collectively created 2,400 jobs, which are documented in an extensive library of case studies showcasing the real-world impact of Seed Academy's interventions.

Differentiating themselves from other entrepreneur development programs, Seed Academy offers a holistic, multi-faceted experience that goes beyond technical skills. They understand the challenges faced by women and youth entrepreneurs, such as navigating male-dominated spaces and overcoming cultural, societal, and internal barriers. Seed Academy equips entrepreneurs with the necessary business acumen, confidence, leadership, and skills to disrupt key sectors.

Seed Engine firmly believes that their comprehensive approach, combining nurturing and mentorship, truly advances entrepreneur development.

By sponsoring Seed programs, corporates witness tangible results that strengthen individuals, communities, and South Africa as a whole. Participating entrepreneurs become part of a vibrant community, gaining access to a network of industry entrepreneurs, technical specialists, mentors, coaches, and service providers in crucial areas such as marketing, legal, accounting, and compliance.

Entrepreneurs are invited to join Seed Engine in changing the narrative of entrepreneurship in South Africa. Together, they can create a competitive edge through innovative ideas, build a pipeline of high-growth enterprises for supply chains, and lead the way towards sustainable, equitable, and inclusive growth.

Angel investment funding from the Seed Engine

As an ICT accelerator and catalyst for economic inclusion, Seed Engine provides support, guidance, and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs. They partner with clients, the ecosystem, and both the public and private sectors to give entrepreneurs unparalleled access to markets and funding sources. Seed Engine works towards relentlessly fighting for their entrepreneurs to gain access to funding opportunities, enabling them to build successful, sustainable, and scalable businesses. Through their strategic partnerships and networks, Seed Engine aims to connect entrepreneurs with angel investors and other funding partners to support their growth and development.

Access the resources you need to suceed

In addition to investor matchmaking, Seed Engine provides entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and resources to prepare compelling pitches and presentations. They offer mentorship and coaching to help entrepreneurs refine their business plans, hone their communication skills, and effectively articulate their value proposition to angel investors. Seed Engine's experienced team provides valuable feedback and guidance to ensure entrepreneurs present their businesses in the most compelling and investor-friendly way.

Seed Engine also assists entrepreneurs in negotiating investment terms and structuring deals. Their expertise in angel investments enables them to provide entrepreneurs with valuable insights into industry standards, best practices, and negotiation strategies. They work closely with entrepreneurs to ensure fair and mutually beneficial agreements are reached, facilitating a smooth and successful investment process.

Furthermore, Seed Engine offers post-investment support to entrepreneurs. They understand that securing angel funding is just the beginning of the entrepreneurial journey. Seed Engine provides ongoing mentorship, guidance, and resources to help entrepreneurs effectively utilize the investment and achieve their growth objectives. They foster a community where entrepreneurs can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another, creating an environment conducive to long-term success.

Transforming industries: AccelerateHer's targeted support for women building thriving businesses

AccelerateHer, offered by Seed Academy, is a program designed to empower female entrepreneurs and challenge male-dominated sectors. It aims to accelerate sector transformation by providing targeted development and assistance to women entrepreneurs, enabling them to build successful businesses with a lasting impact on the economy.

Through workshops, coaching, and collaborative sessions, participants gain valuable business knowledge, refine strategies, and acquire industry-specific expertise. AccelerateHer focuses on construction, service-based businesses, and technology sectors, equipping women with confidence to disrupt traditionally male-dominated industries. The program fosters a supportive community, facilitating learning, growth, and access to resources. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an advocate for change, AccelerateHer offers an opportunity to bridge the gender gap and reshape the narrative of female entrepreneurship in South Africa.