We design support that is practical, stage-appropriate, and tied to results.
We focus on six areas: financial management, operations, corporate governance, strategy, legal and regulatory compliance, and environmental and social practices. SMEs contribute up to 50% of the cost, which builds ownership and ensures the support is valued.
Technical assistance is a core pillar of our model, not an add-on.
We work alongside business owners, not above them. Before investment, we strengthen systems and governance. After investment, we stay close as the business scales.
Through technical assistance, GBF:
• Assesses readiness and addresses gaps before capital is deployed
• Provides hands-on advisory, training, and mentorship
• Helps SMEs professionalise operations and strengthen resilience
• Shares lessons across portfolio companies so insights compound
Our technical assistance program draws on more than 20 years of experience with SMEs and social investment. Our staff and advisors provide GBF with additional expertise in capacity-building and investing in high-impact SMEs.

