702 small business competition opens

Once all 30 finalists have been interviewed on air, a panel of judges will meet to decide on a winning and two runner-up businesses. The judging criteria include sustainability of the business and the potential for growth and employment.

"At 702, we're in the business of telling stories and, through the nominations process, we receive thousands of wonderful stories from all sectors and all corners of Gauteng," explained 702 station manager, Pheladi Gwangwa. "It shows us how vibrant these small businesses are and reminds us of the important role they play in the economy."

The interviews of the finalists, one on John Robbie's show and one on David O'Sullivan's show have proved to offer great value to the small businesses who are interviewed.

Finalists feel the impact

One of last year's finalists, Marius Botes from Betta Lights spoke of the impact of this interview. "We received 300 e-mails and 400 calls in one week, from these we produced 110 quotes and secured business with a number of high profile, large companies."

For Africa Waterproofing and Painting, their nomination led to 25 new leads, one of the biggest of which was Soccer City. "They contacted us and within a few days we were on site, joint sealing the stadium ahead of 2010," said owner, Charlie Brown.

"This year, as we come out of a difficult economic period, I anticipate that we are going to hear a lot of incredible stories about how good ideas, creativity and exceptional service have kept SMEs going and I look forward to honouring these successes," added Steve Cohen, MD of Pastel Accounting.

To nominate a small business go to www.702.co.za.