Solutions given for small businesses at first annual indaba

Dinamic Skills Transfer (DST), City Of Ekurhuleni, Tembisa Agri-Forum (TAF) and Ekurhuleni Northen Region held their first annual Cooperative Indaba at the council chambers, Tembisa Civic Centre, on June 12.

Chairperson of DST Thabo Machate said the aim of meeting was to empower cooperatives and businesses on how to source funds for their businesses. He also said being able to prepare a sound business plan was crucial for the success of any business.

However, said Machate, his organisation had discovered that most of the businesses on their data base lacked these important business skills.

“In our report, we found that many cooperatives and businesses lacked skills to enhance their funding capacity, or in some instances lacked the knowledge to prepare proper business plans, or are unable to prepare lease agreements,” added Machate.

Among stakeholders invited to address the were Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), National Prosecuting Authority, Department of Small Businesses and Gauteng Enterprise Propeller and Banks.

Bishop Michael Mtshali of the Faith Based Organisation was invited to open the gathering with a prayer.

Johny Skosana of the Tembisa Agri-Forum said the session proved a success as stakeholders and businesses were able to exchange ideas.

“We acknowledged the challenges we face as we try to develop the youth and create employment opportunities.

“We plan to have mini sessions to build on the the information the cooperatives and businesses shared with invited stakeholders at the meeting,” added Skosana.