Entrepreneurs Get Help to Start Small Businesses

A program called the Genesis Incubator Hub is helping people in Vrygrond, Western Cape, start their own small businesses. The program gives training, mentorship, and money for equipment. It is funded by the National Development Agency and run by the Sozo Foundation Trust.

The Program

In March, the program received R849,255 to help entrepreneurs. So far, 38 businesses have been supported. The hub focuses on people who are not in school, work, or training. It helps them build small businesses from home.

One Success Story

Chantel Tomlinson-Smith, 38, started a catering and décor business called Tommy’s Delights and Decor. She applied for R20,000 and got R8,700. She used the money to buy a deep freezer, a mini oven, and a deep fryer for market trading.

Tomlinson-Smith started the business because she wanted more meaning in her life. After health and family problems, she decided to turn her love for baking and event styling into a full-time job. She launched her business in August 2025.

The incubator program gave her more than just business skills. It gave her confidence, mentorship, and support. She said, "It gave me skills and knowledge I never would have had otherwise."

Now she wants to grow her business and create jobs for young people in her community. She hopes to inspire others to believe in their talents and start their own businesses.

This article was originally published on Sowetan.