The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (Unido) is committed to reducing poverty by creating jobs through industrial development, says the organisation.
Unido says it does this by promoting industry in less developed areas, especially through small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on employment creation, income generation and institutional capacity-building.
Unido sees technology and innovation as key to unlocking Africa`s development potential and competitiveness, the organisation adds.
In celebration of Africa Industrialisation Day, on 20 November, Unido has initiated a "Business Through Technology" competition.
Africa Industrialisation Day is celebrated worldwide and, while serving as a reminder that 30 of the world`s 48 least developed countries are located in Africa, is aimed at generating commitment from the international community to participate in the industrialisation of Africa.
The competition is designed for SMEs and its theme complements that of this year`s Africa Industrialisation Day: "Technology and Innovation for Industry - Investing in People is Investing in the Future".
The competition recognises the fact that technology, such as the Internet, has levelled the playing field, allowing small businesses to access local and international markets through online marketing, Unido says.
The competition is open to all South African entrepreneurs. Entrants must submit a business plan, which will be judged by a panel of experts. Judgment will be based on innovation, viability, sustainability, as well as the number of jobs that can be created, Unido explains.
A prize of a laptop with one year`s Internet access, as well as a Web site to put the business idea into practice, will go to the entrant who produces the best idea and business plan for starting a small business using technology.
The entry form and an example of a business plan structure are available on the Web site. The entry form together with a business plan must reach the Unido regional office in SA by 7 January 2008.
Entries can be posted to the Unido regional office in SA, or e-mailed to Unido. Both addresses can be accessed by visiting the Web site.
Winners will be announced early in 2008, says Unido.
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