Author: I4Dn3Cr@an

Home > Articles posted by I4Dn3Cr@an (Page 3)

13 May

Posted at 15:40h in Client Advice

Start-ups are often thinly resourced, with gaps in management. Be aware not to expand and grow a start-up business too quickly if the production volume or quality is still low due to technical manufacturing problems Ideally, take the leap of faith and employ the...

13 May

Posted at 15:39h in Client Advice

Entrepreneurs should be aware of the technology-transfer challenges from one country to the next, when setting up a manufacturing plant, including purchasing equipment. There is no seamless transfer even when one buys the same machinery, e.g. the environmental conditions are different and the staff...

13 May

Posted at 15:38h in Client Advice

In most start-ups, there are delays in starting operations, leading to cost over-runs. Ensure investors/shareholders can put in extra equity or acquire grant funding to cover these costs – stand-by equity or debt facilities. Also, factor in time overruns in the commissioning schedule by...

13 May

Posted at 15:37h in Client Advice

Be aware of the fluctuations of the rand exchange rate in capex purchases (e.g. buying imported equipment for production). Cost over-runs due to currency weaknesses may negatively impact the sustainability of a business. The IDC budget often includes a contingency for exchange rate fluctuations. ...

13 May

Posted at 15:35h in Client Advice

Grant funding can be used to develop prototypes. Prototypes can be developed at University facilities which often have small pilot scale equipment that mimic the characteristics of large equipment. Alternatively, negotiate with established manufacturers to utilize some of their facilities for prototype production. Prototypes...

13 May

Posted at 15:29h in Client Advice

Flexible repayment loan terms thus enabling entrepreneurs to service the debt. As a Development Finance Institution, the IDC can structure loans with moratorium periods until the business builds up sufficient cash-flow to service the debt. Grant funding or quasi equity/subordinated loans are good alternative...

07 May

Posted at 15:30h in CSI Latest News

IDC’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) continued its involvement in educational and skills development projects, by supporting the refurbishment of Sisulu Primary School in Tsomo, Eastern Cape. The school officially opened its computer lab during a visit by MEC of Education, Mr. Mlungisi Mvoko. "As the...

07 May

Posted at 15:23h in CSI Latest News

The Development Impact Support department took part in the Youth Dialogue on “Igniting Growth and Access to Markets in Business Incubation” in Bryanston last week. The dialogue is part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for all citizens to share in the responsibility to build a...