Application Deadline: 05 September 2023
The SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme supports entrepreneurs to become successful and resilient business owners through extensive entrepreneurial skills development, mentorship and access to markets, finance and practical business tools and templates. Through connections to peers around the country, we build a powerful network of opportunities for participants long after the programme has ended. The programme prioritises entrepreneurial ventures that are owned and managed by historically disadvantaged groups (i.e. black people, women, youth, people living with disabilities and those living in rural areas) so as to help redress socio-economic challenges faced by these marginalised groups.
Entrepreneur requirements
• The applicant should be resilient, self-motivated and driven to succeed.
• The applicant should show a willingness to learn, grow and change.
• The applicant should show entrepreneurial and leadership abilities.
• 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 is a South African citizen.
• The applicant has the skills and experience necessary for the type of business they are engaged in.
• The applicant is looking for business support, mentorship and skills training to take their business to the next level.
• The applicant is committed to full participation in the programme over the 18-month period.
• The applicant is open to change and willing to drive new strategies to support the growth of their business.
• The applicant has high moral and ethical standards and a desire to contribute to the economy of South Africa.
Participant Expectations
- Participate fully in all programme elements, peer groups and business growth interventions.
- Meet all milestones agreed upon.
- Complete all baseline and yearly surveys as requested, for a period of five years.
- Regularly engage with your mentor, ensuring that you utilise their knowledge and support.
- Submit monthly business data including simple online financial reports.
- Maintain open, two-way communications (including any concerns and suggestions) with our friendly team.
- Show positive, entrepreneurial spirit and demonstrate a willingness to listen, learn and grow. 8. Share ideas, think big, and help yourself and others to succeed!
Benefits
Leadership development:
1. Successful businesses are built on a combination of business skills, personal skills and leadership skills. We follow this holistic approach and place as much focus on leadership development and confidence-building as all the other facets of the programme.
Practical skills development:
2. Five dynamic workshops form an important part of the programme and attendance at these sessions is compulsory. The presentations are practical and facilitated by experienced entrepreneurs, and the topics include Personal Transformation and Strategic Planning, Costing and Pricing, Sales and Marketing, Human Resource Management and Accounting and Financial Management for Small Businesses.
Mentoring and coaching:
3. Participants have access to a personal mentor for up to four hours per month. In addition to the mentor, ongoing support and guidance from portfolio coordinators and the programme manager is on offer. Targeted consulting support including agri-specialists, process engineering and investment readiness are also on offer.
Online information sessions:
4. A number of online information sharing sessions will take place over the course of the programme. These sessions contribute to knowledge sharing, skills building and peer learning and networking.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme 2023
