South African entrepreneurial school Seed Academy has broadened its training offering from a focus on only startups to developing entrepreneurs of small and micro businesses.
Disrupt Africa reported last month Seed Academy had made more than ZAR2.4 million (US$210,000) of sponsored training available for early stage entrepreneurs, assisting them in growing their businesses. Applications are open for regular courses in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
The latest course offering – Roots – is run over two days and can be customised in different languages. It aims to provide micro and small businesses with knowledge of key business principles and offers insight into what is required to establish and operate a successful business.
Participants are required to complete relevant tasks, culminating with each entrepreneur presenting their business concept to the group. Post-programme support is offered in the form of access to Seed Academy experts.
“Job creation is at the forefront of the government’s mandate. We are helping government achieve their objective by empowering entrepreneurs in both rural and urban areas. We believe that our new programme, Roots, will help to change the socio-economic landscape in South Africa by alleviating poverty and reducing unemployment,” said Lara Rosmarin, chief executive officer (CEO) of Seed Academy.
The Roots programme is funded by corporates which use enterprise and supplier development funds to acquire BBBEE points, and is offering one free day of training in entrepreneurship on March 25 in Sandton, Johannesburg.