The Hollywood Foundation is thrilled to announce the 2025 edition of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Bambelela Business Awards, a prestigious event that honours the extraordinary contributions of local entrepreneurs in KZN. These awards not only spotlight the transformative impact of Small to Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in communities, but also celebrate their crucial role in job creation across the region.
The theme, “Bambelela (Hold On) – Your Dreams Are Valid,” is a powerful reminder of the resilience and tenacity that defines KZN’s entrepreneurial spirit. The Bambelela Business Awards are more than a recognition of talent; they are a beacon of support, offering tangible resources and encouragement to those forging ahead on their entrepreneurial journey.
The two-day programme will begin with an Exhibition and Seminar, where qualifying SMMEs will have the opportunity to showcase their businesses to a panel of judges by either exhibiting or pitching for funding. These esteemed judges will then evaluate each participant, seeking out the businesses that have demonstrated exceptional merit, creativity, and community impact.
For those who rise to the top, the rewards are significant. Winners will walk away with the prestige of a Bambelela Business Award and a share of R1 Million in funding, generously sponsored by the Hollywood Foundation. This funding has been increased from the previous year’s prize pool, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to boosting local businesses and further empowering KZN’s entrepreneurs.
Babongile Mkhize, Group Transformation Manager for Hollywoodbets, shared her excitement about this year’s awards: “The Bambelela Business Awards are our way of uplifting and empowering the vibrant entrepreneurial community in KZN. We are proud to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication of local entrepreneurs who are helping to shape a prosperous future for the region.”
The Hollywood Foundation invites all eligible small businesses in KZN to seize this incredible opportunity.
Application Details: Entries for the Bambelela Business Awards are officially open as of 10 February 2025. Qualifying SMMEs are strongly encouraged to submit their entries online by visiting the Hollywood Foundation website at https://hollywoodfoundation.co.za before the submission deadline on 10 March, at 23:59.
Qualification Requirements:
- Must be 100% black-owned business
- Local business – registered and operating in KwaZulu Natal
- Formal and/or informal registered local business
- Business must be in operation for at least 12 months and have a proven track record of trading.
- Business Profile or clear description of the nature of the company/business
For further information regarding the Bambelela Business Awards, including submission guidelines and rules, please refer to the Hollywood Foundation website at https://hollywoodfoundation.co.za. These awards are a testament to our commitment to commend those who have demonstrated exceptional originality and unwavering dedication in their entrepreneurial endeavours.