By Fezile Mkhatshwa
Aspiring entrepreneurs in Eswatini’s handicraft and artisanal food sectors have a golden opportunity to elevate their businesses, as applications for the second cohort of the ‘Future Icons’ entrepreneurship training programme are now open.
The year-long initiative, hosted by House on Fire, aims to equip ten promising micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the handicraft and artisanal food sectors with essential skills, mentorship, and market access to accelerate their growth.
This was shared through a press statement issued by the House on Fire’s Communications Officer, Simon Dawson, outlining that this initiative is part of the ‘Eswatini Promoting Growth through Competitive Alliances’ programme, supported by the European Union (EU) and the International Trade Centre (ITC).
Eva-Maria Engdahl, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Eswatini, emphasized the programme’s impact, stating: “The EU is proud to support the Future Icons Launchpad, a programme that empowers Eswatini’s talented entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses, access new markets, and drive sustainable economic growth. We look forward to seeing this year’s cohort thrive.”
This training opportunity is only open to Eswatini-based entrepreneurs, aged between 19-35, crafting and selling artisanal foods or handcrafted products. Women and the youth are encouraged to apply. Those who will be shortlisted will be invited for an interview and opportunity to bring samples of their work before a panel.
The successful applicants will get a chance to interact and learn from industry leaders, mentorship as well as market exposure, including trading opportunities at MTN Bushfire and the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival, helping them scale their businesses in the early stages of development.
The Future Icons programme has had proven success since its inception last year when it was launched. The participants of that cohort were able to rake in over E111,000 in sales from the major House on Fire festivals (Bushfire, Luju Festival).
The participants were also able to expand their product ranges and 90% of them now supply local retail stores with their products.
One of the first Future Icons from that group, Lungelo Dlamini, founder of Patience Delight, appreciating the chance to be a part, said, “We would like to thank the ITC and House on Fire team for the immense impact they have brought to our business. We have grown in many aspects of our business and the marketplace is more aware of us now, compared to when we started this incubator program. The guidance, mentorship, and opportunities created are always going to be valuable to us.”
With only 10 spots available, selections will be based on growth potential and programme readiness. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to scaling their business and meeting programme requirements. Interested participants can consider the following pointers on what the selection will be based on;
- Scalability: Potential for export growth
- Commitment: Financial ability to attend workshops & activities (including travel)
- Sustainability: Environmentally responsible sourcing & Impact
- Social impact: Contribution to local communities
- Product appeal: Uniqueness, design, and marketability
- Motivation: A strong personal statement on why you want to join
- Readiness: Ability to fully engage and benefit from this programme
- Eloquence: Strength of communication of idea and products
- Clarity & vision: Defined 2-year business goals
- Proven success: Previous sales, milestones, and product achievements
The application deadline is 18 February 2025, and the programme kicks off in March this year. Application Submissions can be made by filling up this online FORM.