SAB Foundation Opens Tholoana Programme Applications for South African SMEs
SAB Foundation Opens Tholoana Programme Applications for South African SMEs. The SAB Foundation has opened applications for its Tholoana Enterprise Programme, an 18-month business growth initiative aimed at South African entrepreneurs running commercially proven businesses with potential to expand.
The programme is delivered by Fetola and is designed for businesses that already have paying customers, generate revenue and can demonstrate demand for their products or services.
To qualify, applicants must be South African citizens, majority shareholders and key decision-makers who work full-time in their businesses. Their businesses must be at least 51% Black-owned and managed, operate in South Africa and have traded consistently for at least two years.
Applicants must also demonstrate paying customers, recurring commercial revenue and evidence of repeat demand. They need to show a viable business model and a credible opportunity to reach additional customers or larger markets.
Entrepreneurs selected for the programme will receive tailored support and dedicated mentoring focused on leadership, business systems and financial capability. The programme will also support participants in pursuing new market opportunities and preparing their businesses for sustainable growth.
According to the programme requirements, businesses do not need sophisticated systems or consistently increasing revenue to qualify. The focus is on whether a business is commercially proven, has demand for its offering and has a credible opportunity for growth.
Applicants must be prepared to commit to the full 18-month programme and be willing to strengthen their leadership and make changes within their businesses.
Priority consideration will be given to qualifying businesses owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities. Businesses based in or meaningfully serving rural and township communities will also receive priority consideration.
Applications for the Tholoana Enterprise Programme close at midday on 13 October 2026.
