Only the Bold can Change the World

At the awards evening, African Bank, a local bank in South Africa, was awarded the prestigious Ecosystem Catalyst Award – in recognition reserved for an organisation that demonstrates outstanding commitment to driving long-term, inclusive growth in their local entrepreneurship ecosystem, through programmes and education. From championing township entrepreneurs to pioneering new financial models for underserved communities, the bank continues to demonstrate what it means to not only fund ideas – but to believe in the people behind them.

5 Jun

Cash Me If You Can: South African MSMEs’ Audacious Treasure Hunt

The report affirms that MSMEs aren’t just part of the South African economy — they are its favourite black tax family member. They hustle hard, contribute over 40% to SA’s GDP, and employ more than 60% of the nation (yes, including your white cousin with his last-mile delivery bakkie). Despite MSMEs carrying more than one-third of the GDP, the golden egg bowl is mysteriously missing from the funding game for startups and early-stage businesses.

29 May

Pray for Entrepreneurs – The Devil is in the Details

South Africa’s small-business battleground is quietly becoming a tax buffet. For SMMEs that earn a living out of an already slim profit margin, these charges are like tiny termites taking a bite from every rand of hard-won revenue. What looks like a humble R0.16/L extra at the pump is a profit drain for township SMMEs. Every extra penny on fuel will be etched in every invoice that lands in the mailboxes of small businesses...

15 May

Searching for VAT Survivors After a Bumpy Ride for Small Businesses

Each VAT debate risks becoming a road spike, not a revenue booster. As policymakers prepare for Budget 3.0, they must remember that SMMEs are not just line items, they’re the backbone of job creation and community stability. True survivors will be those spared from policy ping-pong, supported instead by clear and consistent VAT frameworks that empower rather than penalise the very businesses we rely on to drive South Africa’s economic revival...

4 May

Economic realities – workers and job seekers to consider entrepreneurship as the major economic driver

In a time where job security is no longer guaranteed and economic uncertainty is felt across industries, the need to rethink how we view employment - it has never been more urgent. While we continue to value traditional employment, it has become increasingly clear that the formal job market cannot absorb the majority of South Africans, a reality that calls for a stronger emphasis on entrepreneurship...

24 Apr

Braids, Business & Freedom: What One woman Entrepreneur Taught Me About Resilience.

As we approach Freedom Day on April 27, Sibongile’s story reminds us that economic freedom is just as vital as political freedom. Her grandmother, who also braided hair, never had the opportunity to turn that skill into a business. “She couldn’t own a salon. She couldn’t register a company. I’m enjoying a freedom she was denied.” For many entrepreneurs, Freedom Day is not about formal celebrations, but about quietly acknowledging the right to build, fail, and rise again. They mark the day by mentoring others, investing in their communities, and reflecting on their journey...

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About Us

22 On Sloane is the largest startup campus in Africa. The campus offers disruptive startups and innovative SMEs a complete turnkey solution to scale, from the initial idea all the way to commercialisation, funding opportunities and access to markets. Its aim is to nurture the entrepreneurial mindset, ensure their sustainability, and explore development of new industries and contribute towards job creation in Africa.