Opportunity Window 1 applications for the Wealth & Job Creation Challenge (WJCC) are now closed! Thank you for your submissions!
Keep an eye on our social media pages (Wealth and Job Creation Challenge—WJCC) for Window 1 next steps, more opportunities and for Window 2 application
Why the Wealth and Job Creation Challenge?
The Wealth and Job Creation Challenge (WJCC) seeks to tackle unemployment, poverty, and inequality in townships and rural communities. The WJCC’s vision is to inspire sustainable local economic growth, restore community hope and mobilise like-minded people and organisations in coordinated action towards local production and job creation.
Empowering Local SMMEs & Communities
The WJCC challenges local SMMEs and Communities to take ownership of their own development. It entails two focus areas: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) Acceleration and Local Economic Development (LED) Acceleration.
SMME Acceleration
The SMME Acceleration entails the identification of patriotic and inspired SMMEs in townships or rural community who have ideas that can contribute to increasing local production and thus creating jobs and community wealth. Such SMMEs are provided with support related to access to finance, market linkages, formal economy integration, and the business administration and development necessary to grow and multiply their businesses. Successful local entrepreneurs become role models that inspire hope in youth within the same local social conditions.
The LED Acceleration entails the identification, development, funding, and implementation of sustainable economic projects that create local jobs and stimulate the local economy. These projects are developed and implemented with the communities and seek to foster social cohesion, inspire hope, and reinforce the belief that communities can do more to develop themselves and not only wait for outside help. By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, this initiative empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward economic independence and long-term prosperity.
Get the support needed to transition your business.
Inspiration
Successful participants become examples of possibility, inspiring youth and future entrepreneurs.
Economic Impact
Job creation in rural communities.
How the WJCC’s Vision is Realised
The SEDGE WJCC’s mission is ‘Leveraging Partnerships for Sustainable Impact’. Our approach entails bringing together venture capital, corporates, SMMEs, NGOs, communities and government to combine their unique strengths on joint projects and programmes to stimulating township and rural economies.
There are many synergies, resources, shared goals between the stakeholders that when coordinated more can be done using resources such as: Corporate Social Investments (CSI), Enterprise and Supply Development (ESD), Social and Labour Plans (SLP), Skills Development (SD), Inclusive Procurement (IP), etc.
STEPS TO SUCCESS
How It Works
The Wealth and Job Creation Challenge (WJCC) is designed to empower township and rural entrepreneurs by providing funding, mentorship, and business acceleration support. Our process ensures that only the most promising and impactful businesses receive the resources they need to thrive. Here’s how you can take part in the challenge:
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Deadline 26 Feb 2025
Submit your application with a business idea or an existing project that has the potential to create wealth and jobs in your community.
Shortlisting
In Progress
Our team carefully evaluates each submission based on scalability, impact, and alignment with our objectives. Only high-potential businesses move to the next stage.
INTERVIEW PROCESS
TBC
Shortlisted candidates go through an interview and due diligence process to assess the feasibility and growth potential of their business.
Selection of Winner
TBC
After a rigorous evaluation process, successful candidates will be chosen based on key criteria.
Investment & Support
TBC
Successful applicants receive funding ranging from R30,000 to R100,000, along with ongoing mentorship, market linkages, and business development support to accelerate growth and job creation.
Eligibility
(Who Can Apply)
We’re Looking For Township and rural SMMEs with innovative, scalable ideas.
TOWNSHIP BASED
Entrepreneurs based in townships or rural communities.
SCALEABLE IDEA
Business ideas with the potential to create sustainable jobs.
STRONG VISION
A strong vision for inspiring local youth and community development.
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