If you run your own business, you know that it can be a tough journey. A lonely one, even.
Even if you know your product or service well, there is still so much to learn, so many things to consider and many micro and small business owners simply do not have the financial or other resources to tackle everything that is needed to ensure success.
Ranyaka’s Building Business programme is about working with micro and small businesses to not only achieve their personal goals, but to build the local economy, establish strong networks that encourage businesses to collaborate and ultimately, encourage businesses to give back to the communities they call home.
During June 2022, we launched the Ranyaka Building Business programme in Umlazi, Durban and 35 local businesses had the opportunity to learn more about what the programme has to offer and how the process works for a business to be onboarded. We need to ensure that the programme is a good fit for a small business’ needs – and that we can really add value.
The morning’s programme also included a Consumer Financial Education session hosted by Nedbank – addressing specific topics of interest to entrepreneurs. Building Business is one of ten programmes that we are implementing in several communities across South Africa under the umbrella of the Nedbank Proud of my Town programme.
The main focus is on capacity-building, mentorship and getting the basics in place – from registration, opening a business bank account, the basics around marketing, learning more about tax issues and compliance, and also highlighting the importance of looking beyond your own front door, into the surrounding community.
Small businesses are the backbone of our country’s economy – and building a business, means that we are building South Africa.
Umlazi is one of 21 communities in 9 towns in 8 provinces across South Africa that is part of Nedbank’s Proud of my Town initiative.