Applications are now open for the SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme.
Tholoana is an 18-month business growth programme for entrepreneurs leading commercially proven South African businesses that are either growing or poised for growth. The programme provides tailored support to strengthen leadership, business systems, financial capability and market access.
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 women, youth, persons with disabilities, and entrepreneurs 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.
