August 2023.

A group of ten aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs from within the Matzikama Municipal area are benefitting from an enterprise development programme. In its first year, the programme is equipping participants with the tools to succeed and make a positive impact in their community, as well as fostering an environment of innovation, growth, and economic prosperity in the region.

Heibre Bock, a participant and the owner of a local women-owned business, is a prime example of the programme’s impact, “The training programme is having a significant impact on my business. It is providing me with valuable insights, practical skills, and a clearer vision of my business’s potential. The networking opportunities allows me to connect with other entrepreneurs and expand my business’s reach. As a result, my business is now better equipped to provide exceptional products and services and fulfill my dreams of growth and success.”

The programme, which is funded by Vredendal Solar this year, has provided Heibre and others like her with knowledge, resources, and mentorship, enabling them to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the business world. Participants are also gaining expertise in marketing strategies, financial management, and customer satisfaction.

“The support provided by Vredendal Solar towards the SMME Enterprise Development Programme is crucial for this community as it addresses the pressing challenges faced by local entrepreneurs. In an area where unemployment is a major concern, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship is vital to stimulate economic growth and job creation. By empowering and upskilling emerging entrepreneurs, we are not only helping them build sustainable businesses but also driving the overall development of the community,” stated Reino Le Fleur, Director of Xcess (Pty) Ltd, the programme service providers.