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    Thebe Foundation Enterprise Development Programme Applications 2026 | Apply Now

    MoBy No Comments2 Mins Read

    The Thebe Foundation Trust, in partnership with the Centre for Entrepreneurship within the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), has officially opened applications for the 2026 Enterprise Development Programme (EDP) Cohort. This fully sponsored initiative aims to empower and upskill emerging businesses across South Africa, with a particular focus on supporting women, youth, and persons living with disabilities.

    Programme Overview

    The Enterprise Development Programme is designed to help start-up entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses with expert guidance. Key details include:

    • Duration: 6 months
    • Format: Online classes held once a week
    • Cost: Fully sponsored (no fees)
    • Closing Date: 15 April 2026

    Participants must provide their own data and digital devices for online learning.

    Priority Sectors

    Applications are especially encouraged from businesses operating in the following industries:

    • Fabric Maintenance (Corporate offices)
    • Construction & Maintenance
    • Valet Services (Vehicle fleets)
    • Electrical & Plumbing
    • Corporate & Large-Event Catering
    • Stationery Supply
    • Medical Services
    • PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
    • Transport & Logistics
    • Agriculture and Agro-processing

    Eligibility Criteria

    To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

    • Ownership: Registered, 100% Black-owned businesses.
    • Operational History: In business for at least 2 years.
    • Turnover: Annual turnover of less than R500,000.
    • Commitment: Full-time business owners (no side hustles).
    • Education: South African citizen with an NQF Level 4 qualification or equivalent.
    • Exclusion: Have not participated in an Enterprise Development Programme in the past 5 years.

    Women, youth, and persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

    Application Process

    Interested entrepreneurs must complete the online application form via Microsoft Forms. Applicants will be required to provide detailed information about their business, including:

    • Company registration and tax compliance status.
    • Financial details (turnover, monthly sales, profit).
    • Number of employees and jobs created.
    • Business challenges and expected skills from the programme.

    Verification of business operations, including financial vetting and transaction history, will be conducted for shortlisted applicants.

    Related opportunity: Healthcare Entrepreneurship Program for Doctors | Apply Now

    Enquiries

    For any enquiries regarding the programme or application process, contact the Centre for Entrepreneurship via email at hollyx@uj.ac.za.

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    Want to stay informed about more funding opportunities,grants, business support programmes, tenders, incubators, training, and SMME resources in South Africa? Follow our updates on the StepApp Network:

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