By Noko Mashilo
The Vuka Incubator Programme by Township Fleva is a vital initiative empowering SMMEs to thrive within the township economy. Designed to foster resilience and promote sustainable growth, the 12-month flagship programme is dedicated to supporting South African entrepreneurs based in townships.
Township Fleva enterprise development manager Sekga Mojanaga told Vutivi News that the programme was aimed at SMMEs in the start-up phase, helping them grow their revenue and establish themselves as significant contributors to the local economy. “Our goal is to assist these businesses in becoming meaningful players within the township ecosystem,” Mojanaga said.
The programme offers comprehensive support, including coaching, training in financial management and financial literacy. “These elements are critical for business owners to save money and avoid financial pitfalls. Effective money management, correct pricing strategies and separating personal and business accounts are essential for success,” Mojanaga noted.
In addition to financial literacy, the programme also focuses on stakeholder management. “Participants will learn to manage staff, suppliers and clients effectively. Once these areas are solidified, we move on to business compliance, which is key to unlocking further opportunities. “Compliance ensures that businesses are registered, tax compliant and that their products meet standards and conformity assessments,” Mojanaga added.
The programme sets a target of at least 1% growth in revenue per month for participating SMMEs. “We want businesses to witness measurable growth and, ideally, expand their operations by employing additional staff or extending their reach across multiple townships. Some businesses even exceed this 1% minimum,” she said.
Targeting smaller businesses from areas like Diepsloot, Cosmo City, Alexandra and Tembisa, the programme is supported by funders such as Experian and the Entrepreneurship Development Trust by Investec. “This year, we’ve had two intakes. The first began in April and will conclude in March next year. Applications for the second intake close on Friday, 11 October 2024, with the programme running from November 2024 to October 2025,” Mojanaga shared.
One of the programme’s success stories comes from Nomgqibelo Mkhize of Masisebenze Development Enterprise, based in Naledi, Soweto. Mkhize, who runs a vegetable and chicken farm, received training and a R50,000 funding grant. “The funding allowed me to purchase farm equipment, irrigation tools and seedlings. I also learned the importance of marketing my business and the difference between hustling and running a structured business.
“Most importantly, I discovered how to grow my business through social media without waiting for the harvest,” Mkhize said, proudly reflecting on her journey. Township Fleva will host its annual Township Summit from 17 October in various townships across Gauteng.
