Mbombela - Six information kiosks have been installed in Mpumalanga by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) to provide prospective entrepreneurs with easy access to critical information.
Spokesperson Syndi Khathwane said the self-service kiosks, known as Seda BreadBins, displayed business information that could be downloaded to CD, DVD and USB flash drives.
"The units use a computer-based system, with users interacting with it via a touch screen. Once users have accessed the system, they can find out information about Seda, its products, services and training programmes for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
"It also details Seda success stories and provides information on financing small businesses, intellectual property issues, and broad-based black economic empowerment," said Khathwane.
Aspiring entrepreneurs are also taken through the process of how to start their own businesses from scratch, with answers to basic yet essential questions such as "What is an entrepreneur?" and "Am I ready for business?"
Users also get advice on developing business ideas and compiling business plans, as well as a handy business idea checklist.
"The Seda BreadBins also provide entrepreneurs with access to a wide range of relevant business resources, including information websites, publications and sector-specific research related to small, medium and micro enterprises," said Khathwane.
The units list all Seda's partners, as well as the dates and contact information training programmes, exhibitions and workshops. All this information can be downloaded and, in some instances, printed out, for users to take home with them.
Seda's manager in Mpumalanga, Ntokozo Majola, said the BreadBin initiative was being rolled out nationally in as many communities as possible.
"These units are a fantastic way for us to continue developing, supporting and promoting small enterprises in South Africa, even in those communities where we currently have limited reach," said Majola.
The BreadBins in Mpumalanga are in the Marapyane Thusong Service Centre, Lillydale Environmental Education Centre near Hazyview, Matsulu near Mbombela, Hlanganani Agri-Business in KaMhlushwa, Fernie near Badplaas, and on the corner of Joubert and Laingsnek streets in Volksrust.
