New SMME beneficiaries in the energy sector bring light
Recently, Port Elizabeth saw the second official graduation ceremony of SMME beneficiaries of the bespoke Enterprise and Supplier Development programme, ‘Enegro’, meaning Energy Growth. This programme was made possible through the sponsorship of Avon & Dedisa Peaking Power and implementation partner, SAICA Enterprise Development. The purpose was to provide a customised incubation programme, aimed at developing a network of Black energy consultants to support the Energy sector in South Africa.
Says Ajay Brijmohan, COO, Avon and Dedisa Peaking Power, “Avon and Dedisa remains committed to transforming the Energy Sector in South Africa, and each Enterprise and Supplier Development initiative we participate in is a testament to this.”
The Enegro programme has continued to evolve and develop into a top-class programme. The introduction of industry experts and personal development coaches alongside the business and financial mentoring has created great impact for Enegro SMMES.
Programme inspired graduate beneficiary Sibongiseni Gaqa, a passionate SMME in Bio gas production, says, “One of my major challenges has been on transitioning from academics to business. These are two different worlds and I believe that in order to be able to run your business efficiently you need to be able to link the two successfully. This is where the programme has been of great value to me. I now have a sound business plan. Yes, the process is challenging, but the programme has opened my eyes and given me an opportunity to bring my business idea to life. For this I am forever grateful.”
“In order for us to have true transformation and sustainable economic development as a country, we need to encourage and support the development of SMMEs. We are so proud of each graduate, what they have achieved and how they have developed, and we look forward to further impact in 2020 and beyond, especially in this crucial sector, says Darren Ryder, Project manager of SAICA Enterprise Development.
SAICA Enterprise Development’s vision is to play an active role in economic transformation in South Africa through advancing the sustainable growth of entrepreneurial Black businesses. Socio-Economic Development programmes will remain under The Hope Factory NPC.