As South Africa continues to rely on small businesses to drive economic growth and job creation, initiatives that support entrepreneurs are becoming increasingly important. One such initiative is Old Mutual’s Accelerator Programme, which recently celebrated the graduation of a new group of entrepreneurs who have completed the programme’s development journey.
The graduation marks an important milestone for the participating businesses and reflects Old Mutual’s broader commitment to supporting entrepreneurship in South Africa. Through the Accelerator Programme, small business owners receive funding, mentorship and practical business development support designed to help them build resilient and sustainable enterprises.
Why Small Businesses Matter
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in South Africa’s economy. They help create employment opportunities, support local supply chains and provide pathways for people to participate in economic activity. However, many entrepreneurs face significant challenges as their businesses grow.
Managing cash flow, meeting compliance requirements and developing effective strategies are just some of the hurdles small business owners encounter. Programmes such as Old Mutual’s Accelerator aim to address these challenges by equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge they need to grow responsibly.
A Programme Built Around Real Business Needs
Led by Old Mutual through its Mass and Foundation Markets Cluster (MFC), the Accelerator Programme combines financial support with hands-on development. Participants move through a structured journey that includes pre-investment preparation, active business development during the investment phase and continued guidance as their businesses mature.
The programme focuses on strengthening core business fundamentals such as governance, financial management, strategy and operational discipline. By focusing on these building blocks, entrepreneurs are better equipped to navigate the complexities of running and scaling a business.
Edith Jiya, Managing Director for Old Mutual Retail Mass Market, emphasises that the programme is designed to create long-term impact. “When small businesses are supported in the right way, the impact reaches far beyond the business owner,” she explains. “They create jobs, support families and help strengthen local economies.”
Learning That Shapes Stronger Leaders
For many participants, the programme represents a shift in how they approach leadership and growth. Through mentorship, practical sessions and exposure to industry experts, entrepreneurs are encouraged to rethink how their businesses operate and where improvements can unlock future opportunities.
Recent graduate, Ronald Mabelebele, says the programme helped his team strengthen key areas of their business. “It changed how we look at the business. We’ve improved our recruitment and marketing, and we’re far more focused on retaining both our agents and our clients as we grow.”
Fellow graduate, Thami Ngubeni, describes the programme as a turning point that helped sharpen the strategic direction of her business. “The programme equipped us with strong foundational tools to pursue our growth objectives with intention,” she says. “It strengthened our focus on systems, operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.”
Supporting Inclusive Growth
The Accelerator Programme forms part of Old Mutual’s wider commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening South Africa’s small business ecosystem. By investing in both funding and capability development, the programme aims to help entrepreneurs build businesses that create lasting value within their communities.
As the latest cohort moves forward after graduation, the programme highlights the growing momentum of South Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape. With the right support, mentorship and resources, small businesses can continue to drive job creation, economic participation and inclusive growth across the country.
