Latest news with #NaledzaniMosomane
SowetanLIVE
6 days ago
- Business
- SowetanLIVE
Standard Bank and Sacci back KwaZulu-Natal SMEs going global
Despite KwaZulu-Natal's strategic advantages as a trade hub, many of the province's small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are unable to participate in global markets. Obstacles such as complex export regulations, limited access to funding, and a lack of international trade experience continue to stifle SME growth beyond SA's borders. In response, Standard Bank Business & Commercial Banking, in partnership with the SA Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci), have launched the Export Readiness Programme that will support 20 high-potential KZN-based SMEs with hands-on training, access to markets, and export compliance support. The programme, starting on July 17, is built on the Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) platform and combines tailored funding, capacity-building, and strategic market access. Through this initiative, selected SMEs will receive: Export compliance and certification training; Access to funding tools and trade finance solutions; and Connection to new markets through Standard Bank's African presence and Sacci's trade networks. 'SMEs in KZN are ambitious and capable, but they need the right ecosystem to grow internationally,' says Naledzani Mosomane, head of ESD at Standard Bank Business & Commercial Banking. 'This programme delivers that by offering practical tools and strategic partnerships to help businesses start, manage and grow sustainably — and beyond borders.'
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa: Standard Bank, Sacci launch export readiness programme for KZN SMEs
Standard Bank South Africa, in partnership with the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci), has launched an export readiness programme aimed at helping KwaZulu-Natal-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expand into international markets. The initiative is designed to address key barriers that prevent SMEs in the province from exporting, including limited access to finance, complex trade regulations and a lack of international trade experience. Applications for the programme opened on 30 June 2025 and close on 9 July 2025. It targets 20 high-potential SMEs operating in KwaZulu-Natal. Focus on compliance, training and market access Delivered through Standard Bank's Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) platform, the programme will offer selected businesses: - Export compliance and certification training - Access to funding mechanisms and trade finance tools - Market access support through Standard Bank's African footprint and SACCI's trade networks 'SMEs in KZN are ambitious and capable but they need the right ecosystem to grow internationally,' said Naledzani Mosomane, head of Enterprise and Supplier Development at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking. 'This programme delivers that by offering practical tools and strategic partnerships to help businesses start, manage and grow sustainably beyond borders.' Sacci, which represents enterprises across sectors and regions, is contributing its trade networks and enterprise development expertise to the partnership. 'South Africa's economic future depends on unlocking the potential of our SMEs,' said Alan Mukoki, CEO of Sacci. 'This partnership with Standard Bank is a pipeline to global markets for KZN businesses that are ready to take the next step.'
IOL News
30-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Standard Bank and GIBS launch Youth Forward programme to combat youth unemployment
This initiative is set to empower 50 black youth-owned businesses with essential tools and support to thrive in the current challenging economic landscape. Image: Standard Bank/Facebook As the country gears up to commemorate Youth Month this June, Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, in collaboration with the GIBS Entrepreneurship Development Academy (EDA), is taking action against the rising tide of youth unemployment by launching the 2025 Youth Forward Programme. This initiative is set to empower 50 black youth-owned businesses with essential tools and support to thrive in the current challenging economic landscape. The urgency of this initiative resonates deeply with the latest figures from Statistics South Africa, revealing that youth unemployment for individuals aged 15-34 has surged to a staggering 46.1% in Q1 2025, a notable increase from 44.6% in the previous quarter. Alarmingly, the unemployment rate for youth aged 15-24 stands at 62.4%, emphasising the pressing need for inclusive programmes that break down barriers to economic opportunities for young South Africans. During this significant month, which marks the 1976 Soweto Uprising — a pivotal moment in the fight for equality in education — the focus shifts towards the vital investment in youth development. 'Youth Month is not only a time to reflect on the sacrifices of our young people but also to invest in their future,' said Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise Development at Standard Bank South Africa. 'Through the Youth Forward Programme, we aim to transform the entrepreneurial landscape for black youth, equipping them with the skills, networks, and resources to build sustainable businesses.' This sentiment is echoed by Ms. Guinivere Pedro, Senior Programme Manager for the GIBS EDA, who expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. 'We are excited to continue working with Standard Bank to unlock the potential of young entrepreneurs,' she stated. 'This programme equips participants with practical tools and strategic thinking to sustain and grow their businesses.' The Youth Forward Programme is specifically tailored for entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35, running businesses with at least 51% black ownership and a minimum annual revenue of R100,000. To qualify, applicants must be South African citizens with registered businesses that have been operational for at least 12 months. The programme combines online and in-person learning experiences, with a preference for participants based in Gauteng and neighbouring provinces due to the location of physical sessions in Johannesburg. Successful participants will receive structured business training, mentorship, and access to a valuable network of peers and industry leaders. This initiative is part of Standard Bank BCB's broader commitment to fostering inclusive entrepreneurship through its Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes. These efforts are dedicated to empowering township entrepreneurs to launch, manage, and grow small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), thus making a substantial contribution to South Africa's economic development. If you are a young entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level, this programme presents an exciting opportunity. Applications are open and will close on 3 June 2025. Interested applicants can complete the application process here. BUSINESS REPORT
The Citizen
06-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Today is your last chance to enter the Kasi SME pitch challenge with R60k prize
R30 000 will be awarded to the first-place winner, R20 000 to the second-place winner and R10 000 to the third-place winner. Today is the closing date for provincial entries to win a share of R60 000 from the Standard Bank Kasi SME Pitch Challenge. The bank said this year is the first time the competition is going national, giving township entrepreneurs in all nine provinces a chance to pitch for the provincial prize money. 'Top township entrepreneurs will advance to the national finals later this year, competing for a bigger monetary prize, exposure and growth opportunities for their businesses,' read the statement. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a significant role in providing employment to South Africans, and to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). About the SME Pitch Challenge The Kasi SME Pitch Challenge previously focused only on Gauteng-based entrepreneurs, but this is changing this year. In each province, 15 entrepreneurs will be shortlisted and invited to pitch their businesses to a panel of judges. From these, the top three winners will be selected, with R30 000 awarded to the first-place winner, R20 000 to the second-place winner and R10 000 to the third-place winner. The bank added that the top two winners in each province will then gain access to a detailed pitching masterclass designed to sharpen their business models, storytelling abilities, and presentation skills. 'These finalists will prepare to compete against winners from the other provinces at the national finals later this year, where a share of R500 000 in prize money is up for grabs.' ALSO READ: How mental health affects entrepreneurs Kasi SME Summit Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise Development at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa said this is the third year of the Kasi SME summit. Through this, entrepreneurs gain practical tools, expert insights and access to growth opportunities. 'For years, township entrepreneurs have been an unstoppable force for economic growth and social change.' Eligible township entrepreneurs must: Be black South African citizens. Be formally registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission or trading as sole proprietors. Be operating businesses that are at least 51% black-owned, with a valid B-BBEE accreditation. Generate annual revenue between R0 and R5 million. Be a business operating for at least 12 months, with a business profile and proof of ID. NOT be a non-profit/governmental organisation (NPO or NGO), co-operative, joint venture and/or Standard Bank employee. Interested entrepreneurs can click here to apply. Closing date for the provincial leg is 6 May. NOW READ: 4 business pitch mistakes that could be costing you investors — and how to avoid them
Daily Maverick
02-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Maverick
Standard Bank's Kasi SME pitch challenge goes national as government doubles down on job creation
Opportunities for South African entrepreneurs have never looked brighter. Standard Bank's Kasi SME Pitch Challenge is going national, offering funding and exposure for township businesses across the country, while the Jobs Fund provides support for innovators in green and informal economies. Standard Bank is throwing a lifeline to township entrepreneurs, launching the third Kasi SME Pitch Challenge. With R60,000 up for grabs in provincial prize money and a shot at R500,000 at the national finals, this isn't just another competition – it's a major private-sector push to support job creation and economic growth. For the first time, township businesses from all nine provinces can compete for funding, exposure and the chance to scale their impact. The Kasi SME Pitch Challenge, a centrepiece of the Standard Bank Kasi SME Summit, previously focused on Gauteng. Now, its expansion is set to unlock new growth and job opportunities in township economies across the country. This initiative is part of Standard Bank's broader commitment to empowering township economies, building on its Enterprise and Supplier Development programme that provides tailored support to black-owned businesses. Applications for the Standard Bank's Kasi SME pitch challenge close on Tuesday, 6 May 2025. In each province, 15 entrepreneurs will be shortlisted to pitch to a panel of judges. The top three in each province will win R30,000, R20,000 and R10,000. The top two per province will receive a pitching masterclass and will advance to the national finals, where the stakes rise with a R500,000 prize pool and national exposure for their businesses. 'The Standard Bank Kasi SME Summit is more than an event – it is an essential platform for economic development within South Africa's townships, and its benefits extend far beyond the event itself. By expanding the pitch challenge nationally, Standard Bank deepens its impact on South Africa's township economies, helping even more local businesses navigate typical business challenges, constraints to market access, and build sustainable enterprises,' said Naledzani Mosomane, head of enterprise development for business and commercial banking, Standard Bank South Africa. Real impact Calab Baloyi, founder of Nosso-Sunflower Oil, went from running a garage operation to a thriving business owner after taking fifth spot in the Standard Bank Kasi SME Pitch Challenge, winning a R50,000 cash prize. With the prize money, he paid off the deposit for his oil extraction machine and upgraded his facilities, boosting production capacity from 1.2 tonnes to 7.5 tonnes a month. The competition taught Baloyi valuable skills, including effective storytelling and confident public speaking. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? 'Practise your pitch, understand your financials and showcase your unique value proposition.' Government's effort The government is also playing its part – on Wednesday, 30 April, the Jobs Fund announced a new funding round for innovative solutions that address critical employment barriers in South Africa's green and informal economies, with grants starting at R5-million. The Jobs Fund had invited proposals from public, private and non-profit intermediaries addressing barriers such as technology, infrastructure, regulation, market access and working conditions. The timing couldn't be more urgent. Despite a modest dip in South Africa's overall unemployment rate to 31.9%, youth unemployment remains alarmingly high at 44.6%, with women and young people bearing the brunt of the jobs crisis. 'This initiative comes at a time when unemployment, especially among youth and women, remains a pressing challenge. The fund seeks to support creative, scalable interventions that will contribute to sustainable job creation and stimulate inclusive economic growth in high labour absorptive sectors,' the Jobs Fund said in a statement issued by the National Treasury. First established in 2011, the Jobs Fund emerged from President Zuma's State of the Nation Address in February of that year, before being officially launched by the Finance Minister in June. With an initial allocation of R9-billion, the fund was designed to drive innovative approaches to job creation through co-financing projects with public, private and non-governmental organisations. The previous funding rounds have disbursed R7.4-billion, creating 210,719 permanent jobs and 114,534 short-term jobs and internships, and supporting more than 63,000 SMEs and 16,000 emerging farmers. The new round targets projects in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green mobility, waste and water management, and informal sectors such as street vending and small-scale manufacturing. Applications close on 5 June 2025 at 3pm. What this means for you The simultaneous push from Standard Bank and the Jobs Fund means more than just funding – it's a coordinated effort to unlock jobs, skills and economic growth in the sectors and communities where they are needed most. Township entrepreneurs now have a national platform to access capital, mentorship and exposure, while innovators in the green and informal economies can tap into substantial government support. These initiatives are designed to help businesses grow, employ more people and contribute to inclusive economic development. Eligibility and requirements Township entrepreneurs eager to take part in the 2025 Standard Bank Kasi SME Pitch Challenge must meet these criteria: Eligibility: Black South African citizens only; Registration: Must be registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) or operate as sole proprietors; Ownership: Businesses must be at least 51% Black-owned and hold valid B-BBEE accreditation; Revenue: Annual turnover should range between R0 and R5-million; Operational History: At least 12 months in business, with a business profile and proof of ID; and Exclusions: Non-profits, NGOs, co-operatives, joint ventures, and Standard Bank employees are not eligible. The requirements for the government Jobs Fund are: Those wishing to apply can visit the Jobs Fund website at [email protected]. Both opportunities offer practical support and real pathways to growth for South Africa's entrepreneurs and job creators. DM
