Dimension Data has fast-tracked 20 entrepreneurs on the path to success. These young entrepreneurs are part of Dimension Data's Enterprise Development Incubator programme, which benefits 100 entrepreneurs per annum. Today, a graduation ceremony was held at the Dimension Data offices in Durban.
The rest of these entrepreneurs will be graduating in three other Dimension Data regions during October and November 2014. Over 70% of the participating enterprises are youth-owned.
The Enterprise Development Incubator Programme was developed to promote entrepreneurial skills and to broaden the supplier base in the ICT industry. It is targeted at Dimension Data's current service providers and black South African entrepreneurs who are running their own ICT businesses. The programme is currently running in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. It runs for a period of 10 months and includes a significant amount of practical training.
"Since 2009, our incubator programme has empowered 400 small businesses. We have provided them with the training and support to help them grow their respective businesses, in size, revenue, sales and staff complement," said Zellah Fuphe, Group Strategic Relations Executive, Dimension Data Middle East and Africa.
The entrepreneurial programme addresses common business challenges faced by emerging entrepreneurs, including Dimension Data's sub-contractors and suppliers. The main objective is to accelerate the development of small businesses to achieve sustainability, which in turn creates jobs and contributes to economic growth. Additionally, it strengthens Dimension Data's ability to reach a wider network of clients.
The 100 graduating ICT entrepreneurs have businesses that have been in operation for two years or more and are delivering different ICT related services to diverse clients, including Dimension Data. The training provided to the entrepreneurs is MICT SETA accredited. it comprises marketing and quality management systems, as well as training in all matters related to running a successful business - from financial and accounting management to administration and governance.
In its endeavour to empower small business owners, Dimension Data works with partners such as Africa Vukani, East London Science & Technology Park (IDZ), The Hub, Absa, CIDA, Silulo Technologies, Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP), NYDA, eThekwini Municipality, MICT SETA, SEFA and Global Knowledge.
The Enterprise Development (SMME) Incubator programme was launched in 2009 and supported 23 companies in Cape Town and seven in Gauteng during its inaugural year. The programme has grown over the years and currently supports 100 entrepreneurs each year.
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