Standard Bank’s Support Programme for Emerging Entrepreneurs Expands to Mpumalanga
Standard Bank has been making great strides since the launch of its support programme for emerging entrepreneurs in 2024. The programme, which has seen success in Soweto, Umlazi, and Khayelitsha, is now expanding to Mpumalanga. The upcoming session is set to take place on Wednesday, 16 April 2025 at Emnotweni Casino in Nelspruit.
The support programme has been instrumental in helping hundreds of entrepreneurs form valuable partnerships with local business forums. These connections have laid the groundwork for long-term collaboration and growth. The programme addresses various challenges faced by SMEs, including limited access to financial literacy, barriers to formal banking systems, and inadequate business management skills.
In an effort to reach even more entrepreneurs in underserved communities, Standard Bank is expanding the programme to other regions in South Africa, such as Bloemfontein and Mpumalanga. Future sessions are also planned for townships in the Western Cape, North-West, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape.
Fuad Choonara, Provincial Manager of Enterprise Banking in Mpumalanga for Business & Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, acknowledges the entrepreneurial spirit in Mpumalanga. He emphasizes the importance of providing entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge, resources, and support to build resilient businesses that can thrive and uplift their communities.
The programme offers expert-led sessions that address critical challenges by providing foundational knowledge, essential business skills, and financial literacy. Additionally, tailored banking solutions support business operations and growth. Beyond traditional banking services, entrepreneurs will have access to digital payment solutions, new markets, merchant solutions, Enterprise and Supplier Development, and renewable energy financing.
Each session is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of entrepreneurs and will be delivered over a 4-hour period. The goal is to train hundreds of business owners across South Africa, with plans to expand the programme even further. Expert Relationship Managers will provide practical guidance, bringing real-world experience to the table.
Entrepreneurs in townships can register for the Mpumalanga training session by visiting the Standard Bank website. Seats are limited, so early registration is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Standard Bank’s commitment to supporting emerging entrepreneurs is evident in its efforts to provide the tools and resources needed for sustainable business growth. The expansion of the programme to Mpumalanga is a testament to the bank’s dedication to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic development in underserved communities.
