Competition to promote South African SMEs launched
Young entrepreneurs in Gauteng Province are being given the opportunity to launch their careers through participating in a competition funded by Township Development Model (TDM) and Empire Partner Foundation to support small businesses.
The Food Cart Competition, a project focused at empowering young entrepreneurs, is open to Gauteng residents aged 18-34 and provides the opportunity to win a $5000 (R90, 000) micro-enterprise launch kit.
The competition offers a food cart with a GPS tracking and reporting device, and an e-commerce app with three connected platforms (consumer ordering app, merchant app, and drivers' app) to help with last-mile deliveries.
The food cart also features digital payment devices that allow it to accept credit cards and offer value-added services.
This package also includes business training, mentorship, and other key resources to help them get started as entrepreneurs.
“Micro enterprises form most businesses in the South African economy. Our government has identified the small-medium and micro enterprises sector as one of the potential enablers to achieve its objectives of improving job creation opportunities, reducing poverty, and creating a more equitable distribution of wealth,” said Muhammed Ismail, CEO of TDM.
To participate, entrants must submit a video showcasing their entrepreneurial mastery, business ideas, and how the micro-enterprise starter package will help them achieve their goals.
In these videos, contestants will highlight their initiatives and vision for their business.
They will also demonstrate how winning the competition can positively impact their lives and help them succeed. The deadline for entries is February 14, 2025.
Apply here to learn more about the competition, including eligibility requirements and entry guidelines.