Youth in the Northern Cape community of Noupoort are being supported by a dedicated entrepreneurship programme, which recently brought together 15 aspiring young business people for hands-on training and business education.
Funded by Noupoort Wind Farm in partnership with Business E-Zone, the initiative provided practical training in business development and renewable energy, laying the groundwork for innovative start-ups.
Held at the Noupoort Hub Office, the three-day programme focused on building essential entrepreneurial skills, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, renewable energy solutions, and addressing key service delivery gaps within the community.
“This initiative reflects our continued investment in youth development as a pathway to combat unemployment and build local economic resilience. We believe empowering young people with business skills and entrepreneurial knowledge is a key driver for long-term community transformation,” explained Vanessa Fredericks, economic development manager for Noupoort Wind Farm.
Through the programme, participants were provided with business plan templates, budgeting tools, and training sessions on pitching and entrepreneurship. They also benefited from peer learning and mentorship to further their development. In addition, eight participants were selected to receive free business registration services, giving them a head start in launching their business ventures.
The programme concluded with a pitching competition, where participants presented their business ideas to a panel of judges. The top three winners each received a R1 000 grant to kickstart their businesses.
“I now understand how to calculate my break-even point and how to pitch professionally. I am very grateful for this experience, it has truly boosted my confidence,” said Zikhona Siko (26), who plans to use her prize money for uniforms, stock, and promotion for her business.
