MEET THE TEAM

Funding Connection Advisory is led by Dagmar Breiling, a funding and business advisor specialising in funding readiness, business planning, and financial modelling for SMEs and entrepreneurs. Dagmar works closely with startups and growing businesses to help them prepare credible, funder-aligned documentation that meets the expectations of banks, DFIs, grant funders, and private investors. Her work is grounded in practical experience and a clear understanding of what funders look for when assessing risk, viability, and sustainability. Rather than offering generic advice, Dagmar focuses on strengthening the fundamentals of each business — strategy, numbers, compliance, and presentation. Clients value her for her structured approach, clear communication, and ability to translate complex financial information into practical insights entrepreneurs can understand and use. Dagmar has supported businesses across multiple sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, services, hospitality, and social enterprises, guiding them through funding preparation, applications, and capital-raising processes. Funding Connection Advisory was established to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and real access to capital — by ensuring businesses are properly prepared before approaching funders.

Karmal is our applications and administration officer, she acts as first-line support for all applications. With a keen eye for detail and strong organisational skills, she ensures the smooth functioning of daily operations. She handles tasks such as processing applications, maintaining records, assisting with communication, and providing support to staff and clients.

Khanyi is a consultant at Funding Connection with a strong background in finance and client support. She holds an accounting diploma, which helps her work with accuracy and great attention to detail. Khanyi is a great listener who takes the time to truly understand her clients’ needs and enjoys guiding them toward better, more suitable options. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, which helps her stay informed and continuously grow her knowledge.

Ben Mare is our Director and supporting his wife Dagmar and manages the company. He is a seasoned karateka and a 8th dan with Seiwakai and KSA.

Anne is our Client Liaison Officer who is in regular contact with clients via our weekly Newsletters. Prior to joining Funding Connection, she was involved in Property Development and Residential Sales for over 28 years. She is an avid reader and enjoys the great outdoors.

Cerise is a highly organised and reliable administrative professional who loves keeping things running smoothly. She takes pride in providing accurate, efficient support and making sure every detail is taken care of. Outside of work, Cerise is passionate about sports and plays cricket, which has helped build her teamwork and discipline. She also enjoys dancing, showing her creative side, positive energy, and commitment to personal growth.

Michelle is overseeing our business plan writer team, with her vast experience specifically in manufacturing, she has a great understanding and is able to guide our clients.

Alex is part of our admin team; he is a 3rd Dan in Karate and teaches after hours at our karate studio.

Sandisiwe is an online marketing and design expert and supports our clients and Funding Connection with all online marketing related tasks.

Julia is part of our business plan writers, with an Honour’s degree in Financial Management. She graduated with 3 distinctions in 2025. Outside of her professional work, she is passionate about wildlife, enjoys getting lost in a good book, and treasure spending quality time with her family.

Tyler is part of our business plan writers and supports Michelle specifically with research.

Mark is our experienced consultant in Benoni, as an accountant with great experience in the mining industry he is able to guide our clients and recommend the next steps.