Enablis SA receives R34m from Development Bank for job creation

Historically, as established by the Annual Independent Member Survey, Enablis South Africa entrepreneurs have demonstrated an ability to create an average of more than five jobs per member. Accordingly, with adequate support and services, the 2 500 Enablis entrepreneurs are expected to create a total of 12 500 jobs by 2014.

"The partnership with the Jobs Fund represents a major milestone for Enablis South Africa, " says outgoing Enablis South Africa chairman, Bheki Sibiya. "Since 2004, Enablis has demonstrated what is possible if entrepreneurs receive the necessary support to achieve success. We are thrilled to have these efforts validated by our National Government. This long-term partnership indicates our shared commitment to creating jobs and improving lives in a meaningful and sustainable way."

Entrepreneurs play a critical role

Enablis strategically addresses the most limiting factors in the South African climate, including skills development, networking, mentorship and access to finance. As a result, Enablis members experience steady growth and significant job creation. Since the first survey results conducted in 2006, Enablis member entrepreneurs have created an estimated 18 731 full-time and part-time jobs.

"Entrepreneurs play a critical, but often overlooked, role in creating urgently needed jobs in South Africa," says incoming Enablis South Africa chairman, Donovan Muller. "We continue to strive to best serve the needs of entrepreneurs and provide them with necessary skills to ensure a lasting impact on our economy. With the support of the Jobs Fund, Enablis is now positioned to impact even more entrepreneurs across the country."

Two new offices to be opened

The Jobs Fund grant, leveraged by Enablis' own financial resources, will allow Enablis to open two new offices in Mpumalanga and the Free State, increase membership from 1 000 to 2 500, hire additional staff and implement Enablis Academies. Enablis Academies includes categorising members into three graduated levels of membership, based on the time that the business has been in operation. Services are then tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs at their various stages of business, from concept to sustainability.

"After eight years in operation, Enablis has benefited from many lessons and best practices. This partnership will allow us to work even harder on improving and evolving our services to best meet the needs of our members," says Enablis South Africa's country manager, Victor Mzimela.