FNB MasterUp: a 10-month accelerator for high-growth SMEs

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First National Bank (FNB), in partnership with RED3SIXTY, has launched MasterUp — a 10-month, fully online programme built to help small and medium enterprises accelerate growth and become more investable.

Rather than a generic curriculum, the programme is designed around each participant's situation, pairing masterclasses and business-development models with mentorship and a growth strategy tailored to the business. According to FNB's head of SME Development, Heather Lowe, the aim is to give SMEs contextual, relevant support across different stages and sizes — and, importantly, to open access to funding options designed for gaps the traditional market often leaves unfilled.

What participants work on

Over the programme, businesses develop capability in three areas:

• Funding readiness — building credible business plans, financial projections and pitch materials that improve investability and help unlock growth finance.
• Growth acceleration — sharpening operational efficiency and innovation while lifting business valuation.
• Systems transformation — adopting tech-enabled tools to cut costs, raise efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.

Who can apply

The programme is aimed at SMEs and Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) with at least 51% Black ownership (as defined under B-BBEE) and annual turnover between R10 million and R50 million. It's pitched at ambitious owners and leaders of growth-stage businesses who are open to using technology and new strategies to scale.

How selection works

Applicants complete an entry form and a questionnaire covering their growth strategy, target market and financial health, which FNB and RED3SIXTY review with their experts. Shortlisted businesses are then invited to pitch to a panel, followed by a site visit before the final selection is made. Places are limited — FNB has indicated that as few as 60 SMEs will be chosen.

Tailored, capability-focused support — backed by access to funding — is exactly how high-potential SMEs turn ambition into scale.

For full programme details, eligibility and application steps, see the original announcement.