Press Release: The Hollywood Foundation is once again highlighting local entrepreneurship with the return of the Bambelela Business Awards to Gauteng, now in its third consecutive year in the province. This inspiring commitment of R1 million continues to support small business empowerment by acknowledging resilience, innovation, and community impact.
Bambelela, which translates to “hold on” in isiZulu, has evolved into a significant platform for small enterprises navigating the difficult economic environment of South Africa. The program offers transformative support through the provision of equipment and vital business resources, empowering entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and generate job opportunities.
Since its inception in 2023, the Bambelela Business Awards have established themselves as a legacy initiative within the Hollywood Foundation’s MyBusiness pillar. So far, the programme has allocated over R10.7 million, benefiting more than 268 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) across the country. With each passing year, the impact intensifies — and once again, Gauteng entrepreneurs are encouraged to come forward and take advantage of this opportunity.
“Every year, we are inspired by the stories of resilience and innovation from Gauteng’s entrepreneurs,” says Babongile Mkhize, Group Transformation Manager at the Hollywood Group. “The return of Bambelela to this province reaffirms our belief that small businesses are vital to the economy and carry the spirit of our communities. This R1 million investment is a commitment to ensuring that their dreams continue to thrive.”
Whether you’re a township tailor, a digital innovator, a mechanic, or a mobile food vendor, this is your moment. The Foundation is calling on entrepreneurs from all corners of Gauteng to step into the spotlight.
Application Details:
Entries for the Gauteng Bambelela Business Awards are officially open from 5 September to 5 October 2025. Qualifying SMMEs are urged to submit their entries online by visiting the Hollywood Foundation’s website at https://hollywoodfoundation.co.za before the submission deadline on 4 October 2025 at 23:59.
Qualification Requirements:
Must be at least 100% black-owned business.
Local business – registered and operating in Gauteng.
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 website. These awards are a testament to our commitment to commend those who have demonstrated exceptional originality and unwavering dedication in their entrepreneurial endeavours.