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. Micro businesses, 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 young, 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 Le Blanc, 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
