Boost for business knowledge

Females learn more about how to source funding

Gauteng female entrepreneurs saw their business knowledge receiving a boost following a breakfast seminar on how they should develop and enhance sustainable relationships with clients and fellow entrepreneurs.

Marcia Simelane, who runs Alucia Aluminium and Glass in Katlehong, said the seminar at the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller head office in Johannesburg on Friday enlightened her on what corporates generally sought from service providers.

“I’ve learnt a lot about procurement processes, especially on what to look out for as a businesswoman when I have to approach corporates and bid for contracts.

“One of the key messages I have picked up is that I always need to be ready to make a sales pitch, [and] be compliant with the law.”

Simelane said she hoped that next year GEP would invite several representatives from various corporates who would share information with small business owners on frequently available procurement opportunities and how best small female entrepreneurs could tap into them.

Her comment came after Kamogelo Mampane, chief executive of advisory firm TK Global Experts, delivered a presentation which advised the female entrepreneurs about various means to source funding.

“They don’t have to pay anything for that [service] and the risk is very low,” Mampane said.