Are you a South African entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level? The Thebe Foundation Trust, in partnership with the Johannesburg Business School (JBS) Centre for Entrepreneurship, invites eligible business owners across the country to apply for the 2025 Enterprise Development and Supplier Development Programmes.
These fully sponsored programmes are designed to empower, upskill, and connect entrepreneurs — especially women, youth, and persons living with disabilities — with expert business guidance, sector-specific knowledge, and growth opportunities.
Programme Overview
- Format: Online (via Microsoft Teams)
- Duration: 6 months
- Sessions: Once a week
- Cost: Fully sponsored (participants must provide their own internet and devices)
- Closing Date: 16 June 2025
- Location: Nationwide (virtual delivery)
Available Programmes & Application Links
- Enterprise Development Programme (for Start-ups)
Apply here - Supplier Development Programme
Apply here
Due to limited space, applicants will be shortlisted and interviewed. Only the most suitable candidates will be selected to join the 2025 cohort.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for entrepreneurs who:
- Run a registered, 100% Black-owned business
- Have been operating for at least 2 years
- Earn an annual turnover of less than R500,000
- Are full-time business owners (not side hustlers)
- Have not participated in an EDP in the last 5 years
- Are South African citizens with NQF Level 4 or equivalent
- Are from underrepresented groups — women, youth, or persons living with disabilities (PLWD)
Priority Sectors
While all eligible applicants are welcome, preference will be given to businesses operating in the following sectors:
- Fabric maintenance (corporate offices)
- Construction and maintenance
- Valet services (vehicle fleets)
- Electrical and plumbing
- Corporate and large-event catering
- Stationery and office supply
- Medical services
- Transport and logistics
- Agriculture and agro-processing
How to Apply
- Complete the application form online via the programme links above.
- Email the following documents to hollyx@uj.ac.za using the subject:
Application: 2025 THEBE Enterprise Development Programme (EDP) – [Your Name]- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- CIPC Company Registration Document
- B-BBEE Certificate or Affidavit
Your application will be considered complete only once the form and documents have been submitted.
About Thebe Foundation Trust
The Thebe Foundation Trust, established in 2011 by Thebe Investment Corporation, drives impactful community development in South Africa. Its programmes support education, entrepreneurship, and socio-economic transformation, with a focus on long-term empowerment for previously disadvantaged communities.
Core Focus Areas:
- Entrepreneurship support (e.g. EDP and Supplier Development)
- Education access and literacy (e.g. Dr E.J. Mabuza Scholarship)
- Nation-building and transformation through partnerships
At its core, Thebe Foundation is driven by the values of Excellence, Integrity, Empowerment, Ubuntu, Collaboration, and Empathy — building communities rooted in enduring worth and growth.
Related post: 5 Funding Scams to Avoid When Seeking Business Capital
Don’t Miss Out!
If you’re ready to grow, scale, and formalise your business with expert guidance, this is your opportunity.
Apply by 16 June 2025
Late applications will not be considered.
For enquiries, contact:
hollyx@uj.ac.za
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