AfriSam recently hosted an “access to markets” training session to thirteen entrepreneurs, with the aim of uplifting their communities and their businesses.
The training took place at AfriSam’s Business Development Centre that runs an Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme aimed at identifying Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs).
The centre, which is aimed at empowering and training businesses, offers free space to five SMMEs over a period of three years and continuous business-related training and support.
The centre provides the entrepreneurs with the necessary support and development to grow their business with the aim of being included on AfriSam’s database of registered vendors.
Some of the salient features that were covered with the entrepreneurs included:
- Developing an understanding of Business 2 Business selling and the keys to success.
- Understanding one’s value proposition and how to be differentiated in the market.
- Learning more about one’s customers and what drives and motivates them to buy.
- How to develop a lead generation strategy that works for one’s business.
- Understanding the principles of a great sales pitch.
Funda John Thinda, one of the thirteen fortunate entrepreneurs, said that it has been a very helpful session and it gave him direction in his business functionalities and identity.
Jabu Motlhako, Enterprise and Supplier Development Professional, said that through the Enterprise Development Programme, AfriSam provides training and development to qualifying enterprises to grow and strengthen their businesses to a level where they can be able to exchange business with other businesses.
The centre, which also serves as a walk-in centre to local SMMEs and community members with business related enquiries, has since assisted over 60 SMMEs after its launch in 2014.
