New Resource in the LSF Knowledge Centre: Guide to Establishing a Local Manufacturing Facility
The Localisation Support Fund has launched a new Knowledge Centre, beginning with a practical guide on How to Establish a Local Manufacturing Facility. This step-by-step resource is designed to help entrepreneurs and industrialists navigate the complex journey from concept to commissioning—offering insights on planning, funding, design, and execution to build a scalable, investment-ready production facility.
The Localisation Support Fund is proud to announce the launch of its Knowledge Centre, a dedicated platform designed to provide entrepreneurs, industrialists, and policymakers with practical tools and insights to support the growth of South Africa’s industrial base. As part of our mission to unlock local manufacturing opportunities and strengthen domestic value chains, the Knowledge Centre will house a growing collection of resources that respond directly to the questions we receive from industry leaders and innovators.
The first resource now available is a comprehensive toolkit titled “How to Establish a Local Manufacturing Facility”. This guide is designed to support businesses navigating one of the most critical—and often daunting—milestones in their growth journey: moving from concept to production.
Setting up a manufacturing facility is a transformational step in scaling a business. It shifts a company from incremental, cash flow-driven growth to a capital-intensive model that demands careful planning, rigorous project execution, and long-term commitment. Unlike product design or pilot production, building a manufacturing plant involves significant upfront investment, often financed through equity or debt. This introduces a new set of pressures for business owners, including the need to deliver returns to funders while managing the operational risks of a complex facility.
The guide breaks down this journey into clear, actionable stages—starting from proof of concept, to detailed design, and finally to commissioning and operational handover. It offers practical insights on:
How to assess whether your business is ready to make the leap into manufacturing.
Key financial and operational risks to consider before proceeding.
Best practices for cost estimation, project design, and risk mitigation.
Tips for securing funding and working with investors or lenders.
What it takes to move from early product success to a scalable, commercially viable production model.
The “How to Establish a Local Manufacturing Facility” toolkit is the first in a series of practical resources that will be made available through the Knowledge Centre. As we continue to engage with businesses, sector specialists, and policymakers, the Knowledge Centre will grow into a trusted resource for anyone looking to build industrial capacity in South Africa.
We invite you to explore the toolkit, share your feedback, and let us know what other resources you would find valuable. Together, we can build the knowledge and capabilities required to unlock South Africa’s industrial potential and create sustainable, competitive businesses that drive inclusive economic growth.
Visit the Knowledge Centre now at https://www.lsf-sa.co.za/knowledgecentre and start your journey towards building a resilient, local manufacturing operation.