THE instrumental value that entrepreneurs add to the South African economy is undisputable – they are an important cog in the creation of the much needed jobs in the country. This is according to Gugu Mjadu, spokesperson for the Entrepreneur of the Year competition sponsored by Sanlam and Business/Partners, who spoke at the launch of the 2017 competition in Durban on Tuesday, 7 March.
Celebrating its 29th year, the Entrepreneur of the Year competition seeks to promote entrepreneurship in South Africa as a viable career path, by honouring dedicated entrepreneurs who have made great strides in their businesses and whose passion for growing their businesses and communities inspires and stimulates the nation.
Also speaking at the competition launch was local entrepreneur Shekhar Birtharthee, CEO of Karanichhas – a supplier of savoury pastries in KwaZulu-Natal. Birtharthee pointed to unemployment as the biggest challenge currently facing the South African economy. “The only sustainable way forward is the creation of jobs. It is therefore crucial to develop and support entrepreneurs who can implement new and innovative business solutions that can facilitate this.”
The competition provides a platform to reward and acknowledge the ongoing hard work of these entrepreneurs. With five categories, entrepreneurs from emerging to small and medium businesses can enter.
Prizes valued at over R 2 million can be won, which include cash prizes of R60 000 for each main category winner, and R160 000 for the overall winner. Competition winners will also receive valuable mentorship support, networking opportunities and national media exposure.
Entrepreneurs interested in entering the competition can download entry forms online at www.eoy.co.za as well as interact with fellow entrepreneurs and entrants on the competition’s social media platforms www.twitter.com/@EOY_SA and www.facebook.com/EOY.SA. The closing date for the competition is 31 May 2017.
