From 4–8 August 2025, the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), in partnership with the Department of Public Works, hosted the EPWP Exit to Entrepreneurship programme at Sinothando Child Care Welfare Centre in the Sol Plaatjie Municipality.

This week long training, accredited by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), equipped Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants with the skills to develop business ideas, compile professional business plans, and connect with SMME development stakeholders. Once registered with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) database, participants will gain access to funding opportunities, mentorship, and ongoing business support.

Over the week, participants explored:

• Generating innovative business ideas
• Crafting realistic, fundable business plans
• Understanding what it takes to succeed in South Africa’s competitive economy

The aim was to empower participants with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to take control of their economic futures.

Training sessions examined the essential elements of an effective business plan, including conducting market research to better understand target audiences and competitors key to positioning a business strategically.

Facilitator Nomazulu Sibanda guided participants through the development of critical business tools such as a Cost Plan, Sales Plan, Cashflow Statement, and Income Statement. They applied these concepts by drafting their own income statements to assess business viability.

The training also covered calculating the required start-up capital for potential ventures. To conclude, participants presented their Profit Plans, demonstrating the profitability of their proposed businesses.