Small Business Academy opens its doors to Stellenbosch locals in 2021

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Presented in partnership with the Social Impact Division of Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch Network and Distell, this post-matric programme hopes to make a difference to the lives and businesses of entrepreneurs in low-income communities.

The programme officially commences on 24 February 2021, and will run over a period of eight months. During this time, participants will complete modules in Computer Literacy, Business Essentials, Marketing, Financial Management and Business Plan Development and Presentation. Moreover, each participant will receive one-on-one mentoring from MBA candidates and other alumni of the Business School, who will provide support and guidance throughout the duration of the Programme.

This will be complemented by practical workshops on topics such as gaining access to funding, business insurance, and marketing through social media, with successful candidates set to graduate with a certificate from Stellenbosch University.

For Garnet Christians, an alumnus of the SBA Programme and director of Acu-Temp, the programme is instrumental for any business owner looking to improve their business management skills, “To effectively run a business, it is important to have as much knowledge as you can. Before I took part in the Programme, I was mostly involved with the physical aspect of the business and lacked expertise with the administrative side of things, such as how to finance, run and market my business operations. By completing the programme, I gained a better understanding of the overall business.”

Eligible candidates looking to enrol in this programme must have a matric certificate and own an existing small business, which has been running for at least two years.

Applications close on Friday, 29 January 2021, with dates and venues to be announced in due course.

For more, go to http://www.usb.ac.za/sba or download an application form.