Old Mutual Legends Development Programme invites applications

The Old Mutual Legends Programme, a small business development initiative funded by the Old Mutual Foundation, is inviting applications from small business owners interested in being a part of their 2010 programme.

Programme Background

Started in 2007, The Old Mutual Legends Programme aims to provide a platform for sustainable business development in the craft and small-scale manufacturing sectors. It seeks to stimulate the growth of small businesses by empowering owners and managers with the skills and self-belief to successfully operate their own business.

The programme addresses the common issues and challenges a small business faces, and starts with a careful assessment of needs by an experienced business consultant with practical knowledge of the industry. A prioritised process of change follows, which can include product development, hands-on skills training, business systems implementation, market access linkages and order facilitation.

Specifically the programme is designed to

• Improve the economic viability of participating businesses

• Improve the skills of individuals and entrepreneurs

• Enhance and support the growth of new, especially women-owned, enterprises

• Strengthen emerging businesses and community-based projects through increased sales and skills development

• Facilitate the aims of broad-based black economic empowerment

Andile Ncontsa, Head of the Old Mutual Foundation adds: “For me, this is what economic development is really about; finding ways to ensure that emerging businesses and entrepreneurs within our communities have the skills to make a sustainable living and, importantly, are fully empowered to control their own future”.

The Old Mutual Legends programme is currently active in the Western Cape, KZN, Gauteng and Mpumulanga. Plans for 2010 include an expansion of the project into the Eastern Cape and other regions, as well as new strategic partnerships with government and other stakeholders.

Selection Criteria

Applications for participation are invited from small businesses, NGO’s and community-based projects involved in the craft, tourism and small-scale manufacturing sectors. Places are limited and applicants will be assessed according to their suitability for the programme, with preference given to Black-owned and BEE-compliant organizations and those with a track record of at least 2 – 3 years in operation. Key criteria include a proven willingness and commitment to change, an entrepreneurial drive and strong potential for success. There is no charge for participation.

For more information on being considered for Legends, contact Chantal de Kock on info@thelegendsprogramme.co.za or on (021) 7018096. You can also visit their website to find out more.