The Ballito Dolphins Rugby Club has launched an urgent drive to secure financial support as it faces a severe funding crisis that threatens its participation in the 2026 season.

The club hosted its inaugural monthly Ballito Business Forum on March 4 at Karibu Farm in an attempt to strengthen partnerships between the club and local businesses.

“We are looking to grow the club and add value to potential sponsors and partnerships,” said club chairman, Mark Svenningsen.

As a non-profit company (NPC) and registered public benefit organisation (PBO), the Dolphins can offer potential sponsors broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE) recognition and tax benefits.

READ: Funding crisis threatens future of Ballito Dolphins Rugby Club | North Coast Courier

“We are a worthy cause; one of the only bridges between the haves and have-nots on the North Coast. More than 80% of our player base is development, but that bridge needs funding,” said Svenningsen.

Club treasurer Brendan Stears said this will enable businesses to earn development points across the following categories:

• Socio-economic (five points).

• Enterprise (five points).

• Supplier (10 points).

This enables up to 20 points through donations.

“We qualify to offer BBBEE certificates to those who contribute because we have a high percentage of beneficiaries in terms of the BBBEE Act. We are able to issue those certificates in terms of the socio-economic development scorecard and the supplier development scorecard for capital expenditure donations.”

Stears further explained that the club secured Section 18A tax-deductible status, which allows individuals and companies to claim donations as tax deductions.

“If anyone wants to make a contribution, this will add value to your personal or business tax status,” he added.

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