Calling all entrepreneurs

ENTRIES are open for the 2016 Entrepreneur of the Year competition, sponsored by Sanlam and Business Partners.

Now in its 28th year, this renowned competition pays homage to courageous South African entrepreneurs who dedicate themselves to their enterprises and businesses driving growth, creating much needed jobs and contributing towards economic development in the country.

Speaking at the launch in Durban recently, Ben Bierman, chief financial officer at Business Partners Limited, said the contribution of local entrepreneurs to the South African economy is generally underestimated. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) contribute close to 50 per cent of South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) and generate more than 60 per cent of new jobs created in the economy.

Bierman said that while South Africa has recently experienced tough economic conditions that may not necessarily enable SMEs to grow, opportunities do exist for those entrepreneurs who continue to identify gaps in the market and transform these into viable businesses.

“We need to make a concerted effort to recognise and honour these entrepreneurs who continue to inspire others to venture into the world of business,” he said.

The Entrepreneur of the Year competition is a platform to reward and acknowledge entrepreneurs’ hard work. Prizes valued at R2 million can be won, which includes cash prizes of R425 000. Competition winners will also receive valuable mentorship support, networking opportunities and national media exposure.

Entrepreneurs interested in entering the competition can download entry forms online at www.eoy.co.za as well as interact with fellow entrepreneurs and entrants on the competition’s social media platforms www.twitter.com/@EOY_SA and www.facebook.com/EOY.SA.

The closing date for the competition is National Youth Day, 16 June.