The Tholoana Enterprise Programme is an 18-month business support programme for entrepreneurs leading established, commercially viable businesses that are growing or have a clear opportunity to grow.

We work with entrepreneurs who have already built businesses that work. They have paying customers, recurring revenue and evidence of real demand for their products or services. What they need now is support to strengthen the business and prepare for what comes next.

Through tailored business support and mentoring, Tholoana helps entrepreneurs strengthen areas such as leadership, financial management, operational systems and market access. The support responds to the needs of each business, recognising that businesses at this stage do not all face the same challenges or require the same interventions.

The programme has a particular focus on entrepreneurs who are women, youth, persons with disabilities and those building businesses in rural communities.

Who should apply?

Tholoana is designed for entrepreneurs who:

• Are South African citizens and work full-time in their businesses

• Are majority shareholders and key decision-makers

• Lead businesses that are at least 51% black-owned and managed

• Have businesses registered and operating in South Africa

• Have traded consistently for at least two years

• Have paying customers and recurring, verifiable revenue

• Can demonstrate repeat demand for their products or services

• Have a viable business model and a credible opportunity to grow

• Are willing to learn, make changes and commit to the full 18-month programme

Priority consideration is given to businesses owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities, as well as businesses based in or meaningfully serving rural and township communities.

What does Tholoana offer?

Every business is different. Tholoana provides tailored support based on what each entrepreneur and business needs to become stronger and better equipped for growth.

Over 18 months, entrepreneurs work with experienced mentors and receive practical business support that can include leadership, financial management, operational systems, market access and other areas identified through the programme.

Applications

Applications open once a year. Eligible businesses are assessed on the strength of the business, its opportunity for growth and the entrepreneur's readiness to participate fully in the programme.