THE SAB Foundation is looking for 40 to 60 entrepreneurs who are committed to boosting their growth and achieving new levels of success to apply for its Tholoana Enterprise Programme 2021.
“Entrepreneurs add value to society and strengthen economies,” said Andiswa Gumede, SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme Specialist. “To succeed and sustain that growth, they need market opportunities, mentorship, business skills and funding.”
She said the programme had assisted hundreds of entrepreneurs all over the country, across multiple business sectors since its establishment in 2015.
In that time participants have increased their collective turnover by 85%, from R170 million at inception to R315 million as at 2019. They have also created 832 new jobs.
Entrepreneurs on the programme receive extensive entrepreneurial skills development, mentorship and access to tools and templates. In addition, connection to a strong peer network, as well as access to markets and finance help small business owners achieve exceptional results and become sustainable.
“In 2020, thousands of businesses were forced to cease their operations during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Gumede. “None of our participants had to close their doors despite being unable to trade. In fact, turnover increased by 146% and job creation by 35%.”
Eligibility criteria
- The business is fully operational and has been trading for at least 12 months.
- The business is black owned and managed.
- The business is headquartered and registered (if applicable), within South African borders.
- The business is a going concern, commercially sustainable and viable.
- The business is in the early stages of growth
- The applicant is involved in the daily operations and management of the business on a full-time basis and is not employed by any other organisation.
- The applicant has the skills and experience necessary for the type of business they are engaged in.
- The applicant should show a willingness to learn, grow and change.
- The applicant should show entrepreneurial and leadership abilities.
- The applicant should be resilient and driven to succeed.
In addition, preference will be given to:
- Enterprises run by or benefitting people living with disabilities.
- Women and youth-owned businesses.
- Peri-urban and rural enterprises.
- Enterprises that create jobs in areas with few other opportunities.
Entrepreneurs who are living with disabilities are also strongly encouraged to apply. Applications are also welcome from businesses working in new and growing sectors such as export, manufacturing, food processing, water, energy and waste management.
Applications close at midday on 30 September 2021. For more information www.sabfoundation.co.za/tholoana-enterprise-programme.
