Alex entrepreneurs urged to enter for awards

Alexandra’s budding entrepreneurs have been urged to submit entries for their innovative businesses so they can obtain the support they need to grow their enterprises.

FNB has announced the official opening of entries for the coveted FNB Business Innovation Awards (BIA), which are supported by Endeavor South Africa (Endeavor SA).

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The fourth instalment of the BIAs will take place in 2018 and businesses which can exhibit innovation and the highest potential- to-scale are invited to submit entries.

The businesses must be founder-led, demonstrate the potential for high-growth and have the ability to add substantial economic value through the creation of sustainable employment opportunities.

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Successful entries will go through Endeavor SA’s rigorous selection process where the qualifying entrepreneurs will be interviewed by a seasoned selection panel before they are shortlisted as FNB Business Innovation Awards finalists for 2018. The selection process also entails that the finalists get an opportunity to present their businesses to the judging panel.

“More than ever before, South Africa needs entrepreneurs who can help to change the country’s economic fortunes for the better. The BIA platform presents the perfect opportunity for entrepreneurs to obtain the support they need in

order to scale and contribute to job creation and economic growth,” said Mike Vacy-Lyle, CEO of FNB Business.

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The overall winner will be dubbed the FNB Business Innovator for 2018; the winner of the 2018 leg of the awards will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to attend the prestigious Endeavor International Selection Panel (ISP) which

takes place in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 5 to 7 September next year.

Craig Raw, founder of BrandsEye and the winner of the 2017 FNB Business Innovation Award said the accolade opens up international markets and provides the exposure which is necessary to successfully build a scalable business.

“This platform gives entrepreneurs the ability to think globally as businesses need not be bolted down to a local market when the view is growth-focused, exposure to and how successful businesses around the world operate adds a new dynamic to local business,” Raw added.

Entries are open and will close on 30 December 2017.

To apply visit www.fnbbusinessinnovationawards.co.za and follow the prompts on the Website.