Latest news with #iLembeChamber
The Citizen
29-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Reflecting on a decade of businesses growth with the Entrepreneur Programme
Reflecting on a decade of businesses growth with the Entrepreneur Programme What started as a local initiative to uplift small businesses has become a national model of success – and the iLembe Chamber's entrepreneur programme is just getting started. Over the past 15 years, the programme has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs grow their businesses and create jobs. This was reaffirmed during the launch of its 15th edition last week, where Chamber CEO Cobus Oelofse presented a comprehensive 10-year impact review. The findings highlighted significant growth among previous participants, with many reporting increased turnover, entry into new markets, the launch of new products and improved profitability. One of the programme's standout achievements has been job creation, with participating businesses reporting an 82% increase in employment after completion. Guests at the launch also heard firsthand accounts from 2024 winners, including Sithembile Ndlovu – known as The Mushroom Queen -and Claire Butler of Humidity Hulk. Both entrepreneurs shared how the programme helped them navigate challenges, streamline operations and explore new opportunities. 'At one point, I had to ask The North Coast Courier to stop advertising my product because the demand became overwhelming. But I'm truly grateful for the support,' said Ndlovu. Similarly Butler said her business had skyrocketed with the exposure she had received. The report also noted improvements in financial management, upgraded systems and more resilient business models among past participants. The 2025 edition of the programme will run over 10 weeks, with 20 finalists receiving mentorship, business training and assistance in developing professional business plans. Supported nationally by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the programme will expand next year to include the Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber. 'We're proud to share iLembe's success and continue supporting small businesses across the country,' said Oelofse. Key local partners include Enterprise iLembe, King Shaka International Airport, Siza Water, AVON Peaking Power, ENGIE Peakers Operations and The North Coast Courier. Applications for 2025 are now open. Entrepreneurs can apply online at collect forms from the iLembe Chamber offices or submit entries via drop boxes around the district. For more information, contact Sakhile Khumalo on 087 354 6343 or email sakhile@ Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
iLembe Chamber offers local construction SMMEs a path to sustainable success
Eight local contractors have joined an iLembe Chamber programme aimed at building sustainable businesses and boosting the district's construction sector. Launched last week, the seven-month Emerging Contractors Programme offers mentorship, workshops and industry support to help small businesses grow and compete in larger projects. Participants were nominated by local stakeholders, with the final candidates selected by Siza Water. Over the next seven months, participants will attend one full-day workshop each month, where they will be mentored by industry specialists and guided through key challenges faced by small contractors. Among those taking part is Simangele Gcwensa of Smangaliso Projects, a KwaDukuza contractor with a Grade 2 civil engineering classification. Gcwensa said the programme had already started to open new doors for her. 'Since I started my business in 2011, I have always been on the lookout for growth opportunities. This programme will help me expand my market and take my company to the next level,' she said. The iLembe Chamber collaborated with Avon Peaking Power, the Master Builders Association KwaZulu-Natal and HSEC Online to bring the programme to life. Participants will receive a one-year sponsored membership with the Master Builders Association KwaZulu-Natal, which provides access to vital support services such as labour relations assistance, health and safety advice, legal counsel, employee benefits and discounted services. Their businesses are also listed with the association, increasing industry visibility. To further enhance compliance and operational efficiency, HSEC Online will offer each business a one-year licence for managing health and safety documentation. The platform enables contractors to proactively track and manage compliance for their companies, teams and equipment. iLembe Chamber business support manager Sakhile Khumalo said this was part of a broader effort to strengthen the district's construction sector. 'Our goal is to develop resilient, well-equipped businesses that can confidently take on larger projects and make meaningful contributions to the region's infrastructure development,' said Khumalo. Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
