Ndumiso Zulu, Chief Executive of Old Mutual Group Social Investments, joined industry leaders, policymakers and development finance stakeholders at the Black Business Council (BBC) Summit this week to discuss practical solutions for expanding access to funding for black-owned, women-owned, and youth-owned businesses. 

Speaking on a panel led by Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, Ndumiso contributed to a discussion themed The Transformation Fund and Other Mechanisms to Address Access to Funding for Black-Owned, Women-Owned and Youth-Owned Businesses – Lessons Learned and What Could Be Improved. The session explored the role of development finance institutions, corporate investment programmes and ecosystem partnerships in strengthening support for entrepreneurs and growing inclusive economic participation. 

Drawing on Old Mutual's experience through the Masisizane Fund and broader social investment initiatives, Ndumiso highlighted the importance of combining funding with business development support, mentorship and market access opportunities. His participation reinforced Old Mutual's commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and supporting sustainable business growth across South Africa. 

The BBC Summit, held at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, OR Tambo, brought together leaders from business, government and civil society to address key economic challenges and opportunities facing South Africa. The event provides a platform for dialogue on inclusive growth, transformation and strategies to unlock greater economic participation. 

As South Africa continues to seek innovative ways to support entrepreneurship, partnerships between the public and private sectors remain critical in creating pathways for small businesses to access funding, build resilience and scale their impact. Old Mutual remains committed to playing its part in enabling entrepreneurs to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and job creation.