According to the 2009 SMME survey, access to market is one of the most prevalent challenges faced by most emerging SMMEs in the country. To address this challenge, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has been running a campaign across South Africa aimed at getting big companies to procure from youth owned SMMEs.
The Buy Youth campaign, which will make its next stop in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal on 15 April 2010, will create a platform for both industry buyers and youth owned SMMEs to convene, engage and conduct business while creating access to market opportunities to benefit both buyers and SMMEs.
During the campaign, which will be attended by representatives from government, parastatals, small enterprise financiers and private companies, start-up as well as emerging SMMEs will get an opportunity to present their products and services to industry leaders and buyers. Also, each SMME will have an exhibition stand where they can showcase their products or services.
"Our move to link big business with small enterprises shows our commitment and support for youth owned businesses. It is also in line with one of our eight key performance areas, economic participation, which aims to enhance the participation of young people in the economy through targeted and integrated programmes," says Moipone Molotsi, National Youth Development Agency's (NYDA) director of Business Development Services.
Molotsi says that various KwaZulu-Natal based SMMEs scheduled to attend Buy Youth campaign include marketing and communications, brand development and events companies, trucking and logistics, financial management and consultancy, supply and fitment of interior building materials, computer hardware and software suppliers, travel and tourism and others.
"Big business should trust this system as we only introduce SMMEs that we know have the potential and are capable of delivering the best quality services. Where the SMMEs are not ready for linkages, we prepare them by offering them training, mentorship and access to business finance," concludes Molotsi.
Issued by: National Youth Development Agency
15 April 2010
Source: National Youth Development Agency (http://www.nyda.gov.za/)
