Softstart, an ICT business and technology incubator, has implemented a new, intensive coaching model that incorporates a network of accomplished, high-profile, experienced business professionals to complement Softstart's in-house coaches in advising and assisting early stage ICT start-ups in growing sustainable businesses.
The new approach adds flexibility to Softstart's value-adding projects, by enabling the incubator to manage its coaching/mentoring value offering in terms of the availability of funds or sponsorship at a particular time.
The coaching model is milestone and progress-driven, and focuses on more frequent, highly intensive coaching and mentoring that will enable entrepreneurs in emerging and growth businesses to gain access to seasoned experience in business and information technology strategy formulation and planning, packaging deals for funding by angel investors, venture capitalists and institutional investors, and in downstream execution of administrative and operational initiatives.
With perspectives from a cadre of external mentors and coaches, incubator tenants will also be encouraged to take a "fresh look" at their businesses with respect to emerging trends and technologies.
"The new model which will be managed by Softstart's Coach Manager, will facilitate the learning process in which incubator tenant companies will gain access to entrepreneurial, leadership, managerial, industry, functional and technical expertise, support and advice. External coaches are required to walk incubator tenant companies through a business building process that is modelled against the various growth stages of a venture," says Softstart CEO, Ben Zaaiman.
He continues: "The aim of the new model is to fast-track the development of the start-up ventures into highly successful and sustainable businesses."
The network is constituted of individuals with strong business acumen, entrepreneurial experience and who are passionate about entrepreneurship and small business development. Mentors/coaches with an advanced degree in business and at least 10 years of business experience who are able to demonstrate a track record of providing business consultancy services interested in this challenging, contractual role should send a comprehensive CV and contact details of at least three references to response@softstart.co.za by 22 August 2005.
Softstart assists early stage ICT entrepreneurs with mentoring and support in the strategy and practice of growing a sustainable business. Softstart improves enterprise performance, enhances profitability and growth, and offers technology and management support to South African SMMEs to enable them to develop their innovations to full commercial potential.
Softstart is supported by the GODISA Trust of the Departments of Science and Technology and Trade and Industry and its founders include inter alia, the CSIR, University of Pretoria and the Tshwane University of Technology.
Share
Editorial contacts