Entrepreneurship programme set to empower the youth

The South African Breweries’ youth entrepreneurship development programme, SAB KickStart, is ready for take-off.

Each of the finalists will receive a business grant of between R100 000 and R200 000, and business development support over a 12-month period. The finalists were selected by an independent panel of adjudicators following an intensive two-week business training course facilitated by the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Sandton.

Azure Janneker, the company’s media and communications spokesperson said the SAB KicKStart programme was one of the longest running initiatives of its kind. It started in 1995 and is focused on developing and supporting sustainable youth-owned businesses, as well as high impact entrepreneurs who are able to make a contribution to South Africa’s job creation needs.

“It is important that big businesses in South Africa use their resources, experience and knowledge to help small business become sustainable and strong contributors towards the country’s economy,” said Boipelo Nkadimeng, the company’s acting head for enterprise development and community partnerships. “This means investing more than just capital but offering the support and guidance needed to carry these businesses through to success.”

Janneker added that the top three winners of the national finals would be awarded additional funding for their businesses later this year during Global Entrepreneurship Week. “They are selected by an independent panel of judges who take into consideration the overall business performance, business sustainability and its potential, as well as the effective implementation of growth strategies during the SAB KickStart mentorship and business development phase,” said Jannekar.

Details: SAB Kickstart; www.facebook.com/SAB KickStart.