Bridging Dreams to Reality for Namibian Entrepreneurs

The grand finale of the 2023 Sanlam Bridge programme took place this morning with the five dynamic businesses – Rural Power Solutions cc, Namibian Culture Colouring Book, Edu-Game Namibia, Trimasena, and Rise Shine presenting their final pitch and progress report on their businesses. The Sanlam Bridge is the flagship entrepreneurship programme of Sanlam supported by NIPDB as the implementing agency. The five businesses emerged as the frontrunners after a rigorous six month business? training, coaching, and mentorship programme. This morning marked a pivotal moment as these entrepreneurs competed for the coveted N$50,000 grand prize. African Culture was crowned the overall winner in a fiercely contested pitch. Receiving the prize, Risto Kandele Founder of African Culture, expressed gratitude, stating, "I am delighted to have undergone this programme, equipping me with the skills to confidently present my business concept and build a sustainable brand. Thanks to Sanlam and NIPDB for investing in our craft through various initiatives like MSME incentives, Branding Masterclasses, Financial Symposiums, Digital Bootcamps, Business Support Weeks, and the Start Improve Your Business Training Programme."

During the event Launch Namibia also donated N$20,000 towards Rural Power Supply to enable them to continue with the solar cooker project.

The selection process for the ultimate winner involved a thorough evaluation by panel judges, considering factors such as meeting business milestones, demonstrating growth potential, and overall excellence.

The Sanlam Bridge serves as a launchpad for Namibian future business leaders, catering to those with registered businesses not older than one year or those with feasible business ideas lacking financial resources. This initiative empowers young Namibians by providing essential skills, seed capital, mentorship, and coaching to turn their business dreams into reality.

Beyond initial funding and mentorship, the Sanlam Bridge programme now plays a pivotal role in connecting businesses/MSMEs with financial institutions like banks and equity funders. This strategic bridge enhances their attractiveness for future funding, creating a sustainable ecosystem for economic growth.

As we celebrate the success of the 2023 cohort, the anticipation for the 2024 intake is building up. Sanlam Bridge remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping the future of Namibian entrepreneurs, reinforcing its position as a catalyst for business innovation and growth.

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Issued by Sanlam Group Marketing and Communications Department