New ESD programme launched in Sibanye-Stillwater’s doorstep communities

Applications for Sibanye-Stillwater’s exciting new ESD programme have just opened. Designed to assist SMEs from the mine’s doorstep communities to grow sustainably within the region, the programme will unlock new skills, capabilities and capacity within local small businesses, as well as giving them access to funding and new markets. With the closing date for applications 7 November 2022, entrepreneurs are encouraged to find out more online or visit their local ESD Hub so that they don’t miss out on this opportunity.

Sibanye-Stillwater has launched its new Supplier Development programme with the assistance of its ESD implementation partner Phakamani. Designed to run over a collective 18-month period, the programme will support 80 SMEs across a broad variety of commodity and solutions areas through a combination of strategic mentorship, accredited training and access to funding. It will also seek to improve their ability to market themselves across the region, ensuring they are better able to compete within and grow their own local markets outside of Sibanye-Stillwater’s supply chain alone – impacting the overall growth of communities across the region.

The “ideal” candidates for the programme will be motivated, solutions-driven entrepreneurs who are ready to think creatively in order to scale their businesses towards the future. They must want to better understand their business gaps and how they can overcome these.

Applications close on 7 November 2022, and women and youth-owned SMEs based in the areas in particular are invited to participate. Applicants will need to meet specific criteria that are clearly listed however, including around their service offering type; business location and B-BBEE status.  

Interested SMEs can email applications@phakamanilearning.com for more information or register at one of the Sibanye-Stillwater ESD Hubs. They can also visit the Phakamani website to apply directly online.