Anglo American’s Zimele programme and its partner Sigma have awarded R1.5 million in seed capital to 45 rural entrepreneurs in the Northern Cape, following a 12-week business development initiative that culminated in pitching sessions.
The programme saw 93 businesses from rural communities pitch to a panel of judges, with winners receiving prizes worth between R50,000 and R150,000 to help launch or grow their enterprises. Women make up 56% of the winners, and approximately 68% are youth, demonstrating the programme’s commitment to inclusive economic development.
Participants received training in business model canvas methodology, design thinking and artificial intelligence tools. The University of KwaZulu-Natal partnered on the programme, providing quality assurance and academic rigour to ensure alignment with best practice in enterprise development.
“This demonstrates what’s possible when we invest in people’s potential and equip them with the right tools to succeed,” says Larisha Naidoo, Vice President: Anglo American Zimele. “These entrepreneurs represent the future of economic participation in the Northern Cape – they’re building sustainable businesses that will create jobs and strengthen their communities for years to come.”
“This programme represents a new approach to rural entrepreneurship,” said Akash Singh, CEO of Sigma. “By combining practical business tools with emerging technologies like AI, we’re giving entrepreneurs the skills they need to compete in modern markets while creating sustainable livelihoods in their communities.”
The initiative forms part of Zimele’s broader rural start-up programme around Kumba Iron Ore’s operations in the Northern Cape, supporting the company’s commitment to economic diversification beyond mining. Rather than traditional business plan writing, participants learned to create business model canvases – a practical, one-page tool that helps entrepreneurs understand their markets, competition and value proposition.
The timing of the programme aligned with ongoing discussions at the B20 and G20 forums about the role of small businesses in reducing unemployment and creating economic inclusivity. As official unemployment figures reach 32% (with real unemployment estimated at 45%), programmes that support entrepreneurship are increasingly recognised as critical instruments for economic participation.
Nine top winners received special recognition at the culmination event, with judges including representatives from Anglo American, Kumba Iron Ore and the University of KwaZulu-Natal assessing the viability and innovation of each business model.
