At RMA, we are all about seeing businesses and communities reach their potential. An enterprise development initiative embarked upon by RMA in 2016 resulted in a contribution of R372 698 to Shanduka Black Umbrellas. As a non-profit enterprise development incubation organisation, Shanduka Black Umbrellas partners with the private sector, government and civil society to address the low levels of entrepreneurship and high failure rate of 100% black-owned emerging businesses in South Africa. The businesses are assessed for their credit risk and an advisory committee offers their technical experience to assess the weaknesses and strengths of the businesses.

Ongoing support through the incubation centers and the office infrastructure linked to these include:

• Bookkeeping services at standard rates;
• Access to networking & marketing events;
• Ongoing mentoring;
• Assistance with finance access; and
• Workshops aimed at business and personal development.

RMA identified two suppliers for this programme, allowing these youth-owned suppliers to participate in the incubation programme for 12 months.