Standard Bank’s Entrepreneur Support Programme In Mpumalanga a Win!

Standard Bank’s game-changing support programme for emerging entrepreneurs just landed in Mpumalanga, and it’s already making waves. On Wednesday, 16 April 2025, the team brought their mission to Emnotweni Casino in Nelspruit, continuing what’s become a powerful movement across the country.

The journey began in 2024, when the bank launched the initiative in Soweto (Gauteng), Umlazi (KwaZulu-Natal) and Khayelitsha (Western Cape) – and the response was huge. Hundreds of entrepreneurs showed up, connected with local business forums, and walked away with tools to build real, lasting change. The programme didn’t just tick boxes – it sparked real partnerships, conversations, and growth.

Now in 2025, Standard Bank is stepping it up. The programme is expanding into new regions like Bloemfontein (Free State) and Mpumalanga, with more townships in the Western Cape, North-West, KZN, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape next on the list. The goal? Reach even more entrepreneurs in overlooked communities – and give them what they need to thrive.

“Mpumalanga has an incredible entrepreneurial spirit. But passion alone won’t guarantee long-term success,” says Fuad Choonara, Provincial Manager for Enterprise Banking in Mpumalanga.

“These entrepreneurs need access – to knowledge, support, and solid networks. That’s what we’re bringing to the table.”

So, what does the programme actually offer?

• Foundational business skills and financial literacy to help entrepreneurs run smarter businesses
• Tailored banking solutions that grow with your hustle
• Non-traditional support like digital payments, merchant tools, access to markets, enterprise development, and even financing for renewable energy solutions
• Insights from the Africa Trade Barometer and BizConnect, bringing real-world data and practical advice to entrepreneurs

Each session runs for around four hours – packed with high-impact content but still respectful of busy schedules. Standard Bank plans to train hundreds of entrepreneurs nationwide through these sessions, with expert Relationship Managers leading the way and offering practical, actionable advice based on real experience.

This isn’t just a workshop. It’s a toolkit for township entrepreneurs to build sustainable, resilient businesses – and ultimately, to uplift their communities.