Bosch Holdings Enginuity April 2015 | Page 10

10 Bosch Ulwazi hosts first Enterprise Development Breakfast On 27 November 2014, Bosch Ulwazi hosted its first Enterprise Development Breakfast. Deputy Mayor, Counsellor Nomvuso Shabalala, addressed attendees and commended Bosch Ulwazi for their enormous contribution to Durban’s Small Business economy over the past five years. The honourable Deputy Mayor encouraged other large companies to follow their example by also investing their time, energy and resources. Bosch Ulwazi assists the government, with a mentoring programme tailored to each business or individual’s needs. The programme addresses practical issues such as: • An analysis of the business’ needs • Identifying challenges and potential pitfalls • Purchasing of equipment • Paying of rent • Arranging for short-term loans during periods of low cash flow • Training in business admin tasks. The breakfast honoured corporate and SMME companies who participated in the Enterprise Development Programme during 2014 and allowed corporates the opportunity to further engage with SMMEs. Thus far, 37 SMMEs have benefited from Bosch Ulwazi’s Enterprise Development initiative. Among the honoured guests were up-and-coming entrepreneurs, as well as Dr Sixtus Sibeta from the Department of Economic Development and Tourism. This breakfast is envisaged to be an annual event aligned with Global Entrepreneurship week and all involved are already eagerly anticipating this year’s event. Balan Govender – [email protected] Above: Balan Govender (back centre) surrounded by the entrepreneurs from the programme. Main Picture: Deputy Mayor, Counsellor Nomvuso (second left) with Bosch Holdings and Bosch Ulwazi management.