SME Funding Summit 2026: Expert Lineup Set to Address Funding Challenges

SME Funding Summit 2026: Expert Lineup Set to Address Funding Challenges. SME South Africa has officially announced the speaker lineup for the 2026 SME Funding Summit, promising a program designed to tackle pressing issues in small business financing. The annual event, scheduled for 11 June at the Empire Conference and Events Venue, will bring together thought leaders and practitioners to share insights on compliance, funding options, and strategies to improve access to capital.

Lungile Msomi, digital content specialist at SME South Africa, emphasized the careful curation of speakers. “We are delighted to share the news that the speakers for the 2026 instalment of the SME Funding Summit have been confirmed,” she said. Msomi explained that the lineup was selected to ensure relevance and long-term value for attendees, with content extending beyond the summit through articles, podcasts, and post-event coverage.

The keynote address will be delivered by Darlene Menzies, founder and CEO of Finfind. Recognized for her expertise in SME funding, Menzies is expected to highlight challenges facing the “missing middle”—businesses with annual turnovers between R1 million and R100 million. These enterprises often find themselves excluded from both microfinance and mainstream bank loans, leaving them underserved by traditional funding channels. Her presentation will provide data-driven insights into this critical gap.

Joining Menzies on stage will be Lornelle Jonas, CEO and founder of Elique Advisory, and Lilah Clark, SME development manager at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Also featured are Kgomotso Ndungane, COO at Finfin, and Zibusiso Mkhwanazi, CEO and founder of Avatar Agency Group. Returning speakers include Jameel Khan and Hiten Keshave, co-founders of Unconventional CA, alongside Mokgome Mogoba, founder and managing partner at Kholo Capital.

Msomi noted that the selection process involved collaboration with SME South Africa CEO Velly Bosega. Together, they reviewed past speaker contributions and audience feedback to refine the lineup. “We looked at what our speakers brought to the event last year and how that can be elevated for the next summit,” she explained. The result is a blend of returning voices and new perspectives aimed at enriching the conversation around SME funding.

Tickets for entrepreneurs eager to grow their businesses are available through the SME Funding Summit website. With its focus on practical insights and expert guidance, the 2026 summit is positioned as a valuable platform for small businesses navigating the complex funding landscape.