Entrepreneurs gather to become inspired
Entrepreneurs need to familiarise themselves with all the national and government entities so that they can get help.
About 50 entrepreneurs gathered in Robertsham on August 17, where National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP), Joburg Market Opportunity and Rush Accountants shared information on how they (entrepreneurs) can be assisted.
Patrick Sibeko from NYDA said, “The development agency targeted youth from 18 up to 35 years.
People who are still toying with the idea of opening a business and who want support can come to us and register for a free entrepreneurial workshop.
“There we want to see whether your idea can work, is it viable and we do a SWOT analysis. At the end of the workshop, you will be able to draw up your own business plan.”
Thrive through support
Thabo Talane from, Joburg Market Opportunity, based in City Deep, mentioned they create an environment where entrepreneurs and small businesses can thrive through the support of public-private partnerships.
The centre identifies and earmarks appropriate training workshops and works with relevant service providers to offer SMME development programmes at the centre with the intent of offering a ‘single point of entry where a basket of services is being offered.
Services offered are:
• registration of companies and Sars-related functions
• free access to Wi-Fi for business use
• assistance with the completion of tender documents and related issues
• use of meeting rooms
• funding research and facilitation, including funding products awareness and guidance on the application process
• dedicated investment desk with a business adviser
Get it right
Sani Molefe from GEP said entrepreneurs need their system to be in place.
“Most people think finance is their challenge. At times, one has a great idea concept, however, they don’t have systems in place on how to manage their business.
“Our training helps entrepreneurs to do all those things, to market their business, draw up a business plan, and many other things,” she said.
GEP supports the 11 sectors under the Gauteng Provincial Government’s Transformation, Modernisation and Re-Industrialisation (GPG TMR) protocols.
It will also ensure that through its financial and non-financial programmes, the SMMEs and co-operatives are able to participate in these sectors.
Gladman Moyana from Rush Accountants also mentioned that they provide quality, professional and affordable financial solutions to small- and medium-sized enterprises.
They also offer a free online entrepreneurial skills training programme for existing SMME business owners.
