Silulo Foundation Equips Entrepreneurs to Build Scalable, Investment-Ready Businesses

The event was designed to help entrepreneurs move beyond survivalist and startup operations by providing practical insights into business formalisation, governance, growth strategies and sustainable business development. Rather than focusing solely on theory, the session centred on real-world experiences, actionable advice and the value of operating within a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Delivering the keynote address was Dr. Lusapho Njenge, PhD, an entrepreneurship development specialist and leader at Exxaro Resources, who laid the foundation for the discussion by unpacking the strategic importance of corporatisation. He emphasised that formalisation is not merely a compliance exercise, but a critical growth lever that enables businesses to scale, attract investment and create long-term sustainability.

“Corporatisation is about building a business that can survive, grow and create lasting impact. Strong governance, strategic planning and operational discipline are essential building blocks for any entrepreneur seeking to scale,” said Dr. Njenge.

The event also featured a distinguished panel of entrepreneurs from the Silulo Foundation ecosystem, including Lisa Ndyalivani of Woowfoods, Silulami Siwela of Siwela Solutions and Projects, Simon Moeketsi Kachuma of Katlego Landscaping Masters, and Sindile Mavundla of Khayelitsha Cycling Academy. Their stories provided attendees with authentic insights into the realities of growing township and community-based businesses, navigating regulations, building teams and securing partnerships.

Adding an institutional perspective to the discussion was Tim Scholtz, Head of Enterprise Development at the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Drawing on more than 35 years of experience across the public, private and non-profit sectors, Scholtz highlighted the link between strong governance and economic opportunity.

“Businesses with sound governance structures are better positioned to access both public and private sector opportunities. Formalisation strengthens credibility, unlocks partnerships and contributes to broader economic resilience,” he said.

Wesley Pillay, Senior Project Manager and Business Coach at ORTSA, focused on the practical aspects of business growth, underscoring the role of coaching, mentorship and disciplined execution in the corporatisation journey.

“Entrepreneurs often focus on ideas and opportunities, but sustainable growth requires systems, consistency and a commitment to continuous development. Corporatisation starts with mindset and translates into execution,” Pillay noted.

Communication and stakeholder engagement specialist Babalwa Jonga highlighted the importance of strategic positioning, visibility and business storytelling in attracting funding and partnership opportunities.

“Many entrepreneurs invest heavily in operations but overlook the importance of communicating their value proposition. Consistent communication, digital visibility and strong stakeholder relationships are critical in building trust, attracting partners and unlocking growth opportunities,” said Jonga.

The event also shone a spotlight on Sindile Mavundla, founder of the Khayelitsha Cycling Academy and Chief Bicycle Officer at Rook Cycles. Through his work, Mavundla continues to champion cycling as a tool for social transformation, youth development and sustainable urban mobility. His entrepreneurial journey demonstrated how purpose-driven businesses can create meaningful social and economic impact within communities.

Attendees left the session with practical tools and insights on governance, strategic planning, business development, communications, funding readiness and partnership building. More importantly, they gained access to a network of ecosystem players committed to supporting entrepreneurship and economic inclusion.

The success of the event lay in the diversity and depth of expertise represented. Participants benefited from the perspectives of a policy and entrepreneurship strategist, an institutional leader shaping regional economic development, a business coach working directly with entrepreneurs, a communications and partnerships specialist focused on visibility and funding readiness, and entrepreneurs actively navigating the challenges of business growth.

Through initiatives such as “How To Corporatise Your Business”, the Silulo Foundation continues to strengthen South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing entrepreneurs with the knowledge, networks and support required to build sustainable businesses and create lasting economic impact.