Cape Town start-ups urged to join Bootcamp to Boardroom

Start-ups wanting to scale, gain access to mentors and investors, and a well-connected peer-to-peer network that will take their business to the next level are urged to sign up to the nine-month long Bootcamp to Boardroom entrepreneurship programme, now running for a second year.

With so many entrepreneurs doing incredible work within their communities in Cape Town, there is so much potential for them to scale.

Of course, the journey to becoming Africa’s next unicorn is fraught with obstacles especially in the early phases. Statistically speaking, between 70% and 80% of small businesses fail in the first five years, so belonging to a programme and support network is crucial.

Bootcamp to Boardroom is designed to guide and support young start-ups and is run in conjunction with top business owners in Cape Town and supported by the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) and Over The Rainbow Foundation.

“To truly achieve transformation and inclusivity in our country, as well as within our EO organisation, we need to connect with business owners at grassroots level,” says Julia Finnis-Bedford, EO member and the organisation’s past president.

Bootcamp to Boardroom is her brainchild developed after she wanted to find a way to support young entrepreneurs as they navigate the perilous first three-year phase of their business.

“Last year we saw just how valuable the programme was, not only to those entrepreneurs who took part but also to each mentor and advisor that facilitated the process. We ended up learning so much from each other, that we have come back stronger and more motivated this year to make a difference, we are even welcoming back two of our 2021 candidates,” says Finnis-Bedford.

Interested entrepreneurs who have a business with a minimum turnover of R500 000 must WhatsApp 083 457 0353 or click here to apply online. Entries cost R4 500 (excluding VAT) with payment options available.

EO is a NPO that offers peer-to-peer networking opportunities for entrepreneurs across South Africa and the globe. There are currently 198 chapters in 61 countries worldwide. And Over the Rainbow offers mentorship and support to help small to medium-size businesses scale and grow by advancing their skillset, knowledge and network.

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