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Overview
Sedfa has launched the "Pitch for Funding" programme to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs' needs and potential investors' expectations, which hinders the growth of small businesses. The programme aims to equip small businesses with the skills to create investor-ready pitches for possible funding. It is implemented through events in various provinces, where SMMEs and Coops compete through pitching, culminating in a national event as part of the National Presidential SMME and Co-Operatives Awards hosted by the DSBD
Sedfa issues a call nationally for SMMEs and Coops to apply for the program, and small businesses on Sedfa's database are encouraged to apply. The program includes two-day provincial events, where SMMEs and Coops from branches and incubators compete for three places to the national event. The judging panels consist of various ecosystem partners, and the winners usually receive sponsored prizes.
At the national event, Sedfa organises, meets, and greets for all 27 provincial winners, who then undergo a refresher course and are appointed by a panel of five independent judges. The 27 finalists then pitch against each other for a place in the top nine to advance to the finals on the third day of the National Presidential SMME and Co-Operatives Awards.
