Venture Financing

Projects We Look For

Grameen Fund wishes to adopt a pragmatic approach in extending financial assistance. However, it accords priority to a small scale industry, if it has the following features:

  • Uses of an innovative and untested technology;
  • Produces high returns, but having high risks in a non-traditional sectors;
  • Applies local invention/product and process;
  • Uses indigenous and innovative raw-materials;
  • Export orientation and international competitiveness; has a potential for rapid growth;
  • Enhances skills.

Financial Facilities and Conditions

Equity Participation

Equity:

GF may join in equity participation in the project/enterprise financed by other banks and financial institutions when invited provided that they meet the Fund objectives. Generally, Fund prefers to take on 51% of the equity in a project. In older companies needing finances for new product development or expansion, lower equity ratio may be accepted if so desired by the Board of Directors of GF.

Management:

GF would like to participate in the management of a venture company which is funded to ensure that the company operates proficiently and the project activities follow the business plan.

GF aims at divestment of its shares within 5-7 years through public floatation. Where public listing is not possible the other partners can have first option to buy the Grameen shares either in full or partially.

Long Term Lending

Maturity
: Between 2 to 7 years
Interest Rate:
: 14% per annum (subject to adjustment from time to time)
Grace Period:
: Depending on prospective cash flow
Collateral:
: Generally in the form of assets of the project enterprise

Bridge Loan

Grameen Fund's participation in a project simultaneously through equity and loan financing will be generally discouraged but for early completion of project bridge loans may be provided. The company in that case will borrow fund from other commercial banks and adjust the bridge loan given by the Fund.