Millicent Masina Khethiwe Mhlanga Maite Letsoalo Thando Lamola Shirinda Felicia Serakalala, Thokozani Maseko and Zinhle Skhosana Simo Vilakazi and Nomalanga Nhlapo
The Hollywood Foundation has expanded its investment in township and rural enterprise development in Mpumalanga by increasing funding for the 2026 Bambelela Business Awards to R1.135 million.
The funding boost, which will benefit 20 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the province, was announced during the Mpumalanga leg of the awards programme held in Mbombela on May 29 under the theme, “Catalysing MSME Growth, Market Access and Economic Participation.”
More than 100 MSMEs were selected to participate in this year’s programme following a highly competitive application process. Entries were received from areas including Delmas, Standerton, Barberton, KwaMhlanga, Secunda, Bushbuckridge and Emalahleni, reflecting growing entrepreneurial activity across both urban and rural communities.
The programme extended beyond the awards ceremony, offering entrepreneurial masterclasses, exhibitions, networking opportunities and stakeholder engagements aimed at strengthening business capabilities and improving market access.
Hollywood Foundation spokesperson Vuyisile Ngobese, said the initiative continues to help businesses move beyond survivalist operations and become sustainable enterprises that contribute to economic growth and job creation.
“Entrepreneurs within township and rural economies continue to face barriers relating to market access, business support and growth opportunities. Through the Bambelela Business Awards, we are creating platforms that recognise entrepreneurial excellence and provide practical support that enables businesses to scale sustainably,” she said.
Chairperson of the Mpumalanga Economic Development Board, Thando Lamola Shirinda, praised the Foundation for its continued commitment to supporting entrepreneurs.
“I commend the Hollywood Foundation for creating and sustaining a platform that not only recognises excellence but actively invests in the dreams, aspirations and future of township and rural entrepreneurs,” she said.
She also encouraged young people to seize opportunities available to them.
“To our young people in particular, do not underestimate the power of your ideas. The economy of tomorrow will be built by those who are bold enough to imagine differently and brave enough to act,” Shirinda added.
The overall winner of the competition was Ezimnandi Poultry Farming Enterprise (Pty) Ltd, which received R145 000. MPT Farming (Pty) Ltd secured second place and R115 000, while Bokamoso Training Academy and Projects (Pty) Ltd claimed third place and R85 000.
Seventeen additional businesses each received R45 000 as runner-up prizes, while special awards were presented for marketing, pitching and exhibition excellence.
Now in its fourth year nationally, the Bambelela Business Awards have invested more than R14 million in supporting MSMEs across South Africa, empowering over 360 businesses through funding, equipment support and enterprise development interventions.
The Hollywood Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to expanding opportunities for township and rural entrepreneurs and strengthening their participation in the mainstream economy.
