Programme to give youth entrepreneurs a hand-up

The Youth Start-up Accelerator (YSA) is an online programme designed to impact 100 young South African entrepreneurs.

It is a purpose-built response to the challenges facing young South Africans today.

It is run by business growth professionals like Thokozile Fetola, in partnership with FNB.

YSA is designed to provide aspiring young entrepreneurs with the practical tools to make the leap into business ownership.

The programme addresses critical elements of mindset, as well as the risk and the willingness to work outside their comfort zone.

The programme is split into two phases.

Phase one starts by building a foundation for success. It helps build confidence, and identifies opportunities and develops a practical understanding of how to grow a business.

Phase two builds viability. It refines the business model and supports the growth of candidates who are ready to take on the challenge.

Candidates would need to meet the following criteria:

● Applicants must be between 18-35 years (Preference will be given to applicants between the ages of 18- 25)

● The start-up must be operational for less than six months

● The business must be at least 51% blackowned and managed with an annual turnover not exceeding R1m

● The applicant must not be employed full-time The applicant must have the passion and resilience needed for business.

The programme is only open to applicants who would like to create a profitable and sustainable business, and not an NGO.

First preference will be given to applicants based in townships, peri-urban or rural areas.

Applications for the programme will close at midday on March 18 2022.

A team will be available to assist applicants through the application process. Applications can be found at www.fetola.co.za on the YSA page.