Awethu is calling for aspiring entrepreneurs to join its Launch Pad training programme.
The Launch Pad training programme is an Awethu initiative to recruit and train entrepreneurs with drive. Based on performance in the Launch Pad programme, successful candidates will progress to the Awethu Micro Business Incubator, a 24-week programme that gives entrepreneurs the theoretical and experiential business training to run a successful micro-business.
One of the outputs of the Launch Pad training will be developing a business plan for a micro-business that has the potential to grow into a scalable enterprise. Microbusinesses, as defined by Awethu, are businesses with eight or fewer full-time employees.
The South African economy relies on small businesses to help tackle unemployment, especially among the youth, and Awethu’s aim is to ensure that new ventures become a success through a structured support system.
“The Awethu Project aims to revolutionise the South African economy by unlocking its entrepreneurial potential. To this end, we strive to be the partner of choice for any aspiring entrepreneur, bringing together the most relevant combination of ideas, capital, and management expertise to create fast-growing ventures, jobs and role models” states Rob LeBlanc, CIO of Awethu.
Awethu’s Launch Pad programme is a crucial step towards individuals gaining the skills and experience (in a micro-business setting) that will start them on their entrepreneurial journey.
Candidates interested in applying for the programme need to be black (as defined constitutionally), aged 18 to 35, have basic email, internet search and Microsoft Excel skills, have access to the internet, be English literate, and be available for training at the Awethu offices at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
The closing date for applications for the next intake selection is 26 November 2014. The application form can be found on Awethu’s website: www.awethuproject.co.za/apply.
This is a great opportunity for those aspiring to start new ventures or grow their existing ventures into thriving businesses, and who want to develop themselves into seasoned entrepreneurs.