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    Thebe Foundation Launches Entrepreneurship Programme for Informal Markets | Apply Now

    MoBy No Comments3 Mins Read

    The Johannesburg Business School Centre for Entrepreneurship (JBSCE), in partnership with Thebe Foundation Trust, invites informal entrepreneurs to apply for the 2026 Customised Enterprise Development Programme (C-EDP). This fully sponsored six-month initiative is designed to empower township-based business owners who are ready to formalise their operations and scale their enterprises.

    Programme Overview and Target Audience

    The programme is specifically tailored for entrepreneurs who have never participated in an Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP). The ideal candidate profile includes:

    • Informal business owners not yet registered but ready to formalise or scale.
    • 100% Black-owned businesses, with priority given to township-based enterprises.
    • South African citizens based in Johannesburg.
    • NQF Level 4 or equivalent educational qualification.
    • Women, youth, and persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

    Programme Structure and Delivery

    The fully sponsored programme runs for six months with a structured format designed for accessibility and practical learning:

    • Duration: 6 months.
    • Delivery Mode: In-person classes held once per week.
    • Venues: UJ Soweto Campus and Johannesburg Business School (JBS).
    • Cost: Fully sponsored (participants cover their own transport).

    Application Requirements and Process

    Prospective participants must complete the online application form before the closing date. Key information required includes:

    • Personal details (name, surname, contact information, demographics).
    • Educational background and residential address.
    • Business details (name, location, legal status, industry, years in operation).
    • Business performance metrics (sales, profit, annual turnover, number of employees and clients).
    • Challenges faced and skills expected from the programme.

    Eligibility and Verification

    To ensure the programme reaches its intended beneficiaries, the following verification processes will be conducted:

    • Business Operations Verification: Financial vetting and transaction history checks.
    • Previous Programme Participation: Confirmation that applicants have never attended an EDP.
    • Location Verification: Priority given to Johannesburg-based, township entrepreneurs.
    • Business Status: Focus on informal businesses with prospects for formalisation.

    Programme Benefits and Objectives

    The programme aims to equip informal entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to:

    • Formalise their business operations (CIPC registration, tax compliance, BBBEE).
    • Overcome key business challenges such as funding, market access, and operational inefficiencies.
    • Develop a sustainable growth strategy with the support of professional mentors.
    • Scale their enterprises to create jobs and contribute to the local economy.

    Related opportunity: Thebe Foundation Enterprise Development Programme Applications 2026 | Apply Now

    Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply online before the closing date.

    • Closing Date: 15 April 2026
    • Application Link: Apply Here
    • Enquiries: hollyx@uj.ac.za

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