SMMEs CREATE JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCALS

November 2022.

Kegomoditwe Loeto is a small business owner and one of eight entrepreneurs benefitting from an SMME Development and Training Programme, which is geared towards the empowerment of local small businesses. Job opportunities are also being created via these SMME’s for the local community as a result of this initiative, as the entities expand their operations.

“Before joining the programme, my business was fairly stagnant and I didn’t know what the way forward would be. Being part of this experience inspired and reminded me of why I started this business and how I can scale it up to the next level. It also helped me shift my mindset to become a more forward-thinking and problem-solving entrepreneur,” said Loeto.

Funded by Waterloo Solar, the aim of the programme is to ensure that SMMEs are able to create job opportunities for community members as well as contribute to the local economic development. This is what Loeto’s company, Bang’s Kitchen successfully achieved, having employed six community members. A range of supportive services are further helping this company and many others.

“As part of a continuing commitment towards our entrepreneurs, a wide bouquet of services are offered on an ongoing basis to help the SMMEs tackle everyday challenges that they face with their businesses. The businesses are offered assistance with such things as completion of tender documents and advice on available opportunities,” stated Claire Phutieagae, Community Liaison Officer for Waterloo Solar.

Additionally, Waterloo Solar also assists SMMEs with maintaining and updating business compliance documents, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. This also includes the provision of necessary infrastructure in the form of office space and related amenities for the smooth running of the businesses.

“I found the programme to be very helpful in learning new skills that I can implement in my business. During the courses, we developed a business model canvas that helped us identify our core objectives and we were also made aware of different opportunities available for small businesses,” concluded Loeto.