Submissions are open for South Africa’s Entrepreneur of the Year competition, with the competition acknowledging the contributions of entrepreneurs to job creation and economic growth in South Africa.
The competition hosted annually by SANLAM and Business Partners, aims to recognise, profile, celebrate and reward entrepreneurs making a difference in the South African economy; while also wishing to promote the entrepreneurial ecosystem by inspiring new entrepreneurs.
Competitors stand the chance to win prizes to the value of ZAR2 million (US$174,000), including cash prizes to the value of ZAR350,000 (US$30,000).
Winners will also receive mentoring, and the opportunity to create new networks and relationships with fellow entrepreneurs.
The organisers said the competition presents an opportunity for participants to showcase their businesses, and receive feedback and analysis of their businesses from a judging panel – something the organisers say it a benefit of the competition.
“A key takeaway for past finalists is the opportunity to take a step back and analyse their business, both by themselves, and along with an independent judging panel,” the organisers said.
“We often find that entrepreneurs don’t fully comprehend how far their business has developed and grown over the years, and the networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs and judges allow these individuals to fully appreciate their achievement and the hard work and dedication that has gone into building their business.”
The event is also intended to highlight the important role of entrepreneurs in job creation; with the six 2014 Entrepreneur of the Year winners collectively having created over 400 jobs, while the overall 2013 Entrepreneur of the Year winner created over 800 jobs, the organisers said.
Those interested in putting themselves forward can do so online, until June 16.
