small businesses community support

Celebrating Small Businesses: A Ramadan Reflection

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During Ramadan, supporting small businesses brings us closer together as a community. These local treasures, like familyrun shops and friendly markets, provide unique products and personal connections that make shopping special. For example, visiting my local pet store feels like chatting with friends, not just a transaction. Unlike big chains, which often feel cold and distant, small businesses offer the warmth and familiarity that enrich our neighborhoods. By choosing to shop local, we not only celebrate these local gems but also help our communities grow and thrive.

small businesses entrepreneurship

Delft’s Pioneering Training Scheme Ignites growth in Local Businesses

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Delft’s Urban Waste Management (UWM) EPWP Entrepreneurship Trainee Programme is a city initiative in South Africa that provides entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and abilities through a series of training and development modules. This programme’s holistic approach combines practical mentorship with theoretical knowledge and helps city entrepreneurs realize their business objectives while contributing to job creation and revenue growth among participating businesses. Bonolo Holdings, a family enterprise, has seen considerable growth under the guidance of this city initiative, and its success is a testament to the programme’s effectiveness in supporting small businesses on their journey towards expansion and success.

small businesses upskilling workshops

Cape Town’s Economic Powerhouse: The City’s Business Hub

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Cape Town’s Business Hub is an institution that supports small businesses by offering free workshops, resources, and assistance in overcoming obstacles to growth. The Hub is a vital part of Cape Town’s economy, as it recognizes the important role that small businesses play in generating employment and introducing pioneering ideas. Through comprehensive support and additional resources like SmartCape services and free WiFi access, the Business Hub empowers entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of lifelong learning and entrepreneurship. Interested parties can register for workshops through the Invest Cape Town website or contact the Business Hub team directly for businessrelated inquiries.

violent extortion small businesses

The Plight of Cape Town Businesses Amidst Violent Extortion and Service Disruptions

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Businesses in Cape Town are facing a significant increase in violent extortion, which has led to service disruptions and halted essential services, such as waste collection, in various communities. Small businesses like roadside meat vendors, barbershops, and spaza shops are left vulnerable to gangs who force them to pay exorbitant fees for alleged protection. The city is launching an antiextortion initiative to encourage more individuals to report such incidents, and security and law enforcement personnel have been dispatched in greater numbers to crucial hotspots. The aim is to crack down on the criminals responsible and ensure a sense of security and stability for citizens and businesses.

unemployment economic growth

Cape Town’s Unemployment Rate Declines, Striving to Become Africa’s Premier Business Destination

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Cape Town is making strides towards becoming Africa’s premier business destination, with a substantial decrease in unemployment. The city’s Mayor, Geordin HillLewis, credits this achievement to maintaining the lowest unemployment rate across the metros. However, there is still work to be done to drive further economic growth, alleviate poverty, and create additional job opportunities.

south africa imedp

Supporting Rural and Township Businesses: IMEDP Handover Ceremony Led by Deputy Minister Peters in Phokwane Local Municipality

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The Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP) is an initiative designed to provide support to small businesses operating in rural and township areas of South Africa. The program focuses on designated groups such as women, youth, and people with disabilities, offering them developmental support to improve their competitiveness and sustainability.

youthstart entrepreneurial challenge Cape Town

Cape Town Launches the #YouthStart Entrepreneurial Challenge

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The City of Cape Town’s Social Development and Early Childhood Development Department has launched the annual #YouthStart Entrepreneurial Challenge. The initiative aims to stimulate small businesses and/or ideas through skills development and innovation, contributing to job creation. ## New Challenge Categories Encourage Innovation

south africa food price hikes

South Africa’s Crisis of Food Price Hikes

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South Africa is currently facing a crisis of food price hikes that have caused widespread suffering among poor households. According to StatsSA, food prices have risen by 14% over the past year, resulting in millions of children and adults going hungry. This devastating crisis has prompted DA leader John Steenhuisen to urge President Ramaphosa and his cabinet to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the people of South Africa.