Cape Town: EPWP Entrepreneurship Trainee Programme was organised by the City of Cape town, to complete the three-year certification from the UWC and will continue to grow their businesses. 72 entrepreneurs have used the mentorship and guidance that is provided through the programme.
Reportedly, a group of 72 entrepreneurs have completed a significant milestone in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) of City of Cape Town, Entrepreneurship Trainee Programme (EETP).
After receiving the three years of mentorship and training, these participants are now equipped with certifications that mark the completion of their journey. The initiative was conceptualized and was driven by the City of Cape Town in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape (UWC). It aims to empower the emerging entrepreneurs and foster sustainable economic growth.
The EETP pilot programme was launched in 2021. It includes a diverse group of small-business owners and start-up founders to participate in a structured development programme tailored to meet their business goals.
The programme was conceived by the City of Cape Town and was implemented by UWC. It provided comprehensive training, development modules and individualized coaching to strengthen critical skills in financial management, leadership, marketing and compliance.
Notably, each module was designed to enhance business foundations, positioning the participants for sustainable success. Initial indications received are that the impact of the EETP has been profound over the past three years.
It drives personal development, job creation and business growth among the participants. On Nov 16, 2024 these participants received their certificates from the programme and were celebrated at a recognition ceremony at UWC.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Urban Waste Management – Alderman Grant Twigg attended the ceremony to congratulate the participants for their hard work and commend the programme for aiding growth.
Twigg considered that, through these projects like this, they are able to showcase that EPWP is not just a short-term street sweeping the job opportunity but also an opportunity that can change the lives of the residents positively.
The programme was able to provide mentorship, which is an invaluable tool to help small-businesses grow. He expressed that he is happy to see how each participant was able to grow their business. He congratulated all the participants.