South Africa’s Trade Shield, a tech-based business offering end-to-end credit risk management solutions, has secured ZAR15 million (US$820,000) in funding from FNB’s Vumela Enterprise Development Fund, in partnership with Edge Growth.
Trade Shield helps businesses manage trade credit risk through automated data collection, predictive modelling, and AI-driven analytics. By providing real-time insights via a subscription-based platform, it enables businesses to extend credit responsibly, boost revenue, and maintain stable debt ratios.
The ZAR15 million (US$820,000) funding will be used to unlock growth opportunities in South Africa and globally. Since its launch in 2023, Trade Shield has demonstrated impressive growth, strong market demand, and the potential to scale as a SaaS-based business.
“To date, Vumela has been a very supportive shareholder in Inoxico. Having them invest further in the growth of Trade Shield – with their extensive experience in the South African business landscape – confirms that we are doing something unique and special,” said Trade Shield chairman André Stürmer. “At Trade Shield, we pride ourselves not only on helping our customers grow revenue and improve profitability but also on driving financial inclusion for small businesses by giving them access to trade finance.”
Sally Kitley, associate principal at Edge Growth, said Trade Shield was an exciting business with a relevant and novel product offering that radically improves its customers’ credit management processes.
“They have an impressive management team, deep industry knowledge, and an innovative approach that is supported by a market with strong tailwinds. We are excited about the growth that our funding unlocks. The Trade Shield product demonstrates impact by showing how trade credit can unlock business growth. It is innovative, relevant, and value-adding to the businesses that use it,” she said.
