Calling young entrepreneurs
DO YOU own a small business that will benefit from mentorship, business support and access to funding?
POLOKWANE – DO YOU own a small business that will benefit from mentorship, business support and access to funding?
If so, you should consider applying for South African Breweries’ (SAB) Tholoana programme. The programme invites entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses an opportunity to do just that.
It primarily supports enterprises that benefit or are run by women, the youth and those living in rural areas. According to SAB Foundation manager, Bridgit Evans, they want to make an impact in those areas and regions that are often under-resourced and have limited opportunities. “We are looking for only the best candidates, and will only consider organisations with a proven business concept and potential for growth,” she said.
Successful candidates will receive 18 months of mentorship, access to skills training workshops and other business support, as well as grant finance up to R250 000, which will be spent upon the completion of certain milestones.
Evans said the increased focus on business development services was a shift for the Tholoana programme, which previously only provided grant funding. “Last year, we conducted a survey amongst past recipients, about support from the Tholoana enterprise development fund, and the consistent feedback we received was that many of our entrepreneurs expressed the wish for mentorship and skills training in support of their growth.”
Evans said they had partnered with small business growth specialists, Fetola, and would offer an integrated suite of business support for successful candidates.
If you are an entrepreneur or business owner with a registered business that has been in operation for at least six months and less than five years, you may be eligible for the programme.
Visit www.sabfoundation.co.za for more information.
