Seed Academy
- Black-owned businesses
- Meticulous application and vetting process
- Mentoring and coaching
- Quick Navigation
- Seed Academy esd fund product
- Seed Academy contact details
[Accessed July 27, 2023]
About Seed Academy
Seed Academy is an organization committed to empowering women and youth entrepreneurs in South Africa, aiming to redefine the landscape of entrepreneurship by fostering high-growth businesses that have a positive impact on the economy and local communities.
Within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Seed Academy plays a crucial role, focusing on both Enterprise Development (ED) and early-stage Supplier Development (SD). Their comprehensive programs address the specific challenges faced by women and youth in business, combining technical and business training with personal development and leadership components.
How Seed Academy transforms entrepreneurial ventures
What distinguishes Seed Academy is their profound comprehension of the economic, cultural, and psycho-social factors that influence entrepreneurs. They firmly believe that when entrepreneurs are empowered, they reinvest in their families and communities, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire economy.
The team at Seed Academy is passionately committed to entrepreneurship and the advancement of women. Drawing upon their extensive expertise and experience, they strive to make a lasting difference. Whether it be in business and operations management, finance, program coordination, or financial education and empowerment, each team member contributes significantly to the success of the academy.
Amplifying impact: Seed Academy's powerful network of partnerships
Seed Academy's work is greatly amplified by their extensive networks and partnerships. Collaborating with like-minded organizations dedicated to entrepreneurship and women's development, Seed Academy has secured strategic alliances.
Their shareholders, including WDBIH and Grovest, bring valuable experience in impact investment and small-cap funds administration, respectively. Additionally, partnerships with organizations such as WBD Growth Fund, Primestars, and Transcend provide expertise in equity funding, youth development, and BEE advisory services.
Through their programs, partnerships, and collaborative efforts, Seed Academy remains steadfast in their mission to cultivate a dynamic community of women and youth entrepreneurs who actively contribute to economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation.
They extend an invitation to corporates, entrepreneurs, and partners to join them on this transformative journey, as they strive to reshape the narrative of entrepreneurship in South Africa.
Seed Academy Services
Seed Academy's programs for Enterprise Development (ED) and Supplier Development (SD) have the objective of aiding the growth of sustainable black-owned businesses in South Africa.
These initiatives are crucial for promoting transformation and meeting the requirements of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE).
Empowering entrepreneurs for growth: Inside Seed Academy's tailored support system
The ED program concentrates on identifying and recruiting beneficiaries who possess the potential to expand and scale their businesses. Seed Academy employs its extensive database, partner networks, and online advertising to identify entrepreneurs who align with the sponsor's goals and supply chain needs.
A meticulous application and vetting process ensures the suitability of candidates for the program. Entrepreneurs selected for the ED program receive personalised support, such as mentoring, coaching, and access to market opportunities. Seed Academy also facilitates connections with industry experts and partners who can provide technical expertise and sector-specific networks.
Mastering the art of supply chain: Empowering SMMEs for growth
The SD program is designed for small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) that are already registered in the supplier database of a measured entity. This program offers specialised masterclasses, intensive mentorship, and tailored coaching based on specific business sectors. It equips business owners with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete within the corporate supply chain. Seed Academy's mentors assist entrepreneurs in developing their technical skills, meeting compliance requirements, and gaining access to industry networks. The program also emphasizes the consistent delivery of contracted services or products to meet required standards.
Both the ED and SD programs provide comprehensive reporting and measurement of key metrics to showcase the tangible impact of these interventions. By sponsoring these programs, South African companies contribute to uplifting communities and advancing economic transformation. Additionally, they benefit from improved B-BBEE scorecards and have the opportunity to support black-owned businesses aligned with their supply chain requirements.
Seed Academy takes a comprehensive approach to empowering women entrepreneurs through its AccelerateHer program. This program enables female entrepreneurs to establish high-growth businesses and challenge traditionally male-dominated sectors. It addresses not only business skills but also technical, social, and psycho-social challenges faced by women in business.
AccelerateHer offers targeted development, essential business skills workshops, sector-specific technical skills training, and multiple learning opportunities. The program aims to bridge the gender gap in entrepreneurship and promote a more equitable future for all. Corporate sponsors can support entrepreneurs through the AccelerateHer program and enhance their B-BBEE scorecards while addressing gender disparities in specific sectors.
Seed Academy – ESD Fund
- Loan Type ESD Funds
Benefits of Seed Academy
- Empower women and youth entrepreneurs.
- Comprehensive ED and SD focus.
- Holistic transformation approach.
- Dedicated expert team.
- Powerful partnerships.
- Personalised entrepreneur support.
- Capacity building: skills and compliance.
- Impact reporting and measurement.
- AccelerateHer: empowering women.
- Accessible application process.
- Gender equity in business.
- Contribution to economic transformation.
- Opportunities for business growth.
- Inclusivity and diversity values.
- Competitive and sought-after programs.
Are you an entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level?
Seed Academy's Enterprise Development (ED) programs are designed to support the growth and sustainability of black-owned businesses in South Africa. If you're ready to unlock new opportunities and receive tailored support, applying for one of Seed Academy's EDS programs might be the right step for you.
Applying is simple. Start by filling out the Seed Academy Application Form, providing your personal details such as your first and last name, email address, and contact numbers. Additionally, ensure you provide your ID number or passport details as part of the application process. Seed Academy values diversity and inclusion, so don't forget to specify your gender.
Completing Seed Academy’s application form
In the application details section, select "Enterprise Development" as the program you're applying for. You'll be asked to share the stage of your business, whether it's still an idea, an early-stage startup, or a scaling business. Take this opportunity to tell Seed Academy about your business or idea. Share your business name or idea name and describe the potential product or service you aim to offer. Also, indicate the number of people in your team and whether your company is registered or not.
Seed Academy is committed to promoting economic transformation, particularly for black-owned and female-owned businesses. Therefore, be sure to answer the questions regarding the majority ownership of your business. Indicate whether your business is majority black-owned and majority female-owned, showcasing the alignment with Seed Academy's mission.
In the motivation section, explain why you're applying to Seed Academy. Share the key challenges you face in your business, choosing from the provided options such as finding clients or customers, retaining staff, or dealing with market competition. You can also specify any other challenges you believe are important for Seed Academy to know.
Lastly, make a compelling case for why Seed Academy should select you in less than 100 words. Highlight your unique strengths, aspirations, and the impact you aim to make. Demonstrate your passion, determination, and commitment to driving positive change in your industry.
It’s competitive so stay strong and communicate
Remember, Seed Academy's EDS programs are highly sought after, so make sure to submit your application as soon as possible. By applying, you are taking a significant step towards accessing tailored support, mentorship, coaching, and market opportunities that can help your business thrive.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to grow your black-owned business in South Africa. Apply to Seed Academy's Enterprise Development programs today and let your entrepreneurial journey reach new heights.
Seed Academy Contact
Physical Address
- Building 2 Pinmill Office Park 164 Katherine Street Sandton Gauteng 2148 South Africa
- Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Monday 8:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday 8:00 – 17:00
- Wednesday 8:00 – 17:00
- Thursday 8:00 – 17:00
- Friday 8:00 – 17:00
- Saturday Closed –
- Sunday Closed –