In a province where townships and rural enterprises continue to serve as catalysts of economic activity, KwaZulu-Natal’s entrepreneurial landscape is increasingly shaped by the resilience, innovation and determination of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses play a critical role in stimulating local economies, creating employment opportunities and strengthening community development, particularly within underserved areas where access to funding, business support and market opportunities often remains constrained. As the demand for sustainable economic participation grows, initiatives that intentionally invest in grassroots entrepreneurship have become essential in advancing inclusive economic growth across the province and solving critical social issues.
It is within this context that the Hollywood Foundation continues to strengthen its commitment to entrepreneurship development through the 2026 edition of the prestigious Bambelela Business Awards in KwaZulu-Natal. Now in its third consecutive year in the province, the initiative continues to build on the success of previous editions by creating impactful opportunities for entrepreneurs operating within township and rural economies, while reinforcing the Foundation’s long-term commitment to sustainable MSME empowerment and socio-economic development.
This year, the Hollywood Foundation increased its investment in the programme from R1 million to R1 135 000, a strategic funding boost that will be distributed among twenty deserving MSMEs in the province. The increased investment reflects the Foundation’s continued confidence in the potential of local entrepreneurs and its commitment to supporting businesses that demonstrate both commercial viability and measurable community impact.
Following a highly competitive application process, 128 MSMEs were selected to participate in the programme, highlighting both the growing demand for entrepreneurial support and the depth of emerging business talent across KwaZulu-Natal. Applications were received from various parts of the province, including eThekwini Municipality, Empangeni, Richards Bay, Pietermaritzburg, Greytown, Port Shepstone and Ulundi, reflecting the widespread entrepreneurial activity taking place across both urban and rural communities.
Notably, women-owned enterprises continue to make a significant contribution to the province’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with female-owned businesses accounting for 66% of the qualified applicants. This strong representation highlights the growing influence of women entrepreneurs in driving economic transformation, innovation and sustainable community upliftment within KwaZulu-Natal.
Through the Bambelela Business Awards, the Hollywood Foundation continues to provide more than just financial assistance. The initiative serves as a platform for enterprise development, collaboration and long-term business sustainability by creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to strengthen their operational capacity, expand their networks and position themselves for future growth.
Commenting on the significance of the programme, Hollywood Foundation Public Relations Officer, Vuyisile Ngobese said, “The Bambelela Business Awards continues to demonstrate the incredible entrepreneurial potential that exists within township and rural communities across KwaZulu-Natal. Through this initiative, we are intentionally investing in businesses that are not only contributing to economic activity but are also creating meaningful impact within their communities.”
Ngobese further emphasised the importance of sustainable entrepreneurship development in advancing economic inclusion and strengthening local economies.
“Small businesses remain at the centre of economic participation and job creation. By supporting entrepreneurs through strategic funding and development opportunities, we are contributing towards the growth of resilient enterprises capable of creating sustainable livelihoods and long-term economic impact,” she concluded.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, who delivered the keynote address during the awards ceremony applauded the success of the awards, highlighting their role in uplifting communities and celebrating local excellence. He noted that initiatives like these align with the province’s broader development goals and emphasised the importance of partnerships that drive meaningful social impact. “As the provincial government, we are committed to working with organisations like the Hollywood Foundation to expand opportunities, empower our people, and build a stronger, more inclusive KwaZulu-Natal,” he said, expressing optimism about future collaboration.
The 2026 KwaZulu-Natal Bambelela Business Awards continues to position itself as an important catalyst for entrepreneurship development and inclusive economic participation within the province. Through ongoing investment in local enterprises, the Hollywood Foundation remains committed to fostering sustainable business growth, strengthening township and rural economies, and contributing meaningfully towards South Africa’s broader socio-economic transformation agenda.
Top 20 Winners:
- First-Prize Winner and winner of R145 000: Hala Lisa (Pty) Ltd
- Second Prize Winner and winner of R115 000: Pitchbright (Pty) Ltd
- Third-Prize Winner and winner of R85 000: Makoti Boot Camp (Pty) Ltd
Seventeen Runner-Ups and recipients of R45 000
- Sparkling Touch Holdings (Pty) Ltd
- Samke’s Boutique Craft (Pty) Ltd
- We Stand Well Holdings (Pty) Ltd
- Armsdon Trading (Pty) Ltd
- International Group Horizon Education (Pty) Ltd
- Sistas Felas Trading and Projects (Pty) Ltd
- Impebe Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd
- Beyond Integrated Services (Pty) Ltd
- Cleanfest (Pty) Ltd
- Ozel Trading (Pty) Ltd
- Honeylog (Pty) Ltd
- AMLESZ Healthcare (Pty) Ltd
- Umbilo Express Plant Hire (Pty) Ltd
- Rikhonile Investments (Pty) Ltd
- Ikhaya Lezimomondiya (Pty) Ltd
- Amandlenkosi Farms (Pty) Ltd
- Nsikeleoah (Pty) Ltd
Spot Prize Winners
- Recipient of R12 500 – Facebook Marketing Competition: Crispy Comer (Pty) Ltd t/a Micasa Kasi Cuisine
- Recipient of R6 250 – Early Bird Pitchers Award: GeoTX (Pty) Lld t/a SpazaSure
- Recipient of R6 250 – Best presented exhibition stand: Hala Lisa (Pty) Ltd
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Author: Vuyisile Ngobese from Hollywood Foundation on behalf of Hollywood Foundation.
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