Rural businesses in Northern Cape score big with R1.5m funding head start

A POWERFUL partnership between Anglo American's Zimele programme and Sigma has injected R1.5 million into 45 rural entrepreneurs in the Northern Cape, giving them the fuel they need to launch or grow their businesses.

The entrepreneurs, mostly women (56%) and youth (68%), pitched their ideas to a panel of judges, with winners walking away with prizes worth R50,000 to R150,000. But it wasn't just about the cash – participants received top-notch training in business model canvas methodology, design thinking, and AI tools to help them thrive in modern markets.

"This demonstrates what's possible when we invest in people's potential and equip them with the right tools to succeed," says Larisha Naidoo, Vice President: Anglo American Zimele. "These entrepreneurs represent the future of economic participation in the Northern Cape – they're building sustainable businesses that will create jobs and strengthen their communities for years to come."

The programme is part of Zimele's broader rural start-up initiative, supporting economic diversification beyond mining in the Northern Cape. And it's already making waves – the B20 and G20 forums are taking note of the impact of small businesses on unemployment and economic inclusivity.

"This programme represents a new approach to rural entrepreneurship," says Akash Singh, CEO of Sigma. "By combining practical business tools with emerging technologies like AI, we're giving entrepreneurs the skills they need to compete in modern markets while creating sustainable livelihoods in their communities."

The future is looking bright for these Northern Cape entrepreneurs, and it's clear that Zimele and Sigma are committed to empowering the next generation of business leaders