Programme to boost small businesses

CLOSE to 3 000 small business owners, job-seekers and community leaders will benefit from a digital training programme launched by Facebook in partnership with Digify Africa.

Through the Boost with Facebook programme, they will learn how to find the resources and training they need to thrive in the digital economy. Business owners, in addition, will learn how they can leverage digital marketing tools to grow their businesses, specifically on Facebook.

Training sessions are scheduled for Ekurhuleni, Tsakane, Johannesburg Central, Soweto, Mthatha, Sedibeng, Mbombela and Cape Town.

Facebook’s public policy manager Emilar Gandhi said small businesses were the drivers of economic growth, and technology had transformed the economy and allowed more people to discover local businesses.

Ghandi said to succeed businesses had to attract customers. “But we know from our community that this can be expensive and challenging. As more people turn to the web and to their phones to discover and connect with businesses, it’s crucial that small businesses have an online presence”.

Digify Africa chief operating officer, Qhakaza Mthembu said: “(We are) excited to continue working with Facebook to reach more entrepreneurs.

“Having seen how powerful Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp have been for the businesses we have trained, we are keen to reach more and equip them with the hands-on digital skills they need.”