Published: 15 December 2017

AUDIT and advisory firm Ernst & Young (EY) has launched a business programme aimed at empowering entrepreneurs.

The programme, launched last week, caters for entrepreneurs from various sectors such as consumer products and retail, advertising, agriculture, manufacturing and security.

The EY Business Accelerator programme intends to enable participants to take part in a customised programme which is set to expand knowledge on business strategies and practices while also stimulating executive dialogue on new trends.

Launching the programme, EY Central Africa head of advisory Nqaba Mkwananzi said Zimbabwe needed to harness the potential of entrepreneurs to accelerate economic growth.

"This year-long programme is aimed at empowering entrepreneurs to think bigger, learn from their peers and find seasoned advisors. We know that access to successful role models and business-building networks is critical for entrepreneurs to accelerate growth. As a leader in advising, guiding and recognising entrepreneurs, EY knows that access to successful role models and business building networks is crucial for entrepreneurs to accelerate growth," he said.

The programme will also enable the entrepreneurs to strengthen their executive leadership, business skills and identify opportunities to grow and scale their companies through meetings with advisors and other entrepreneurs who can serve as role models and mentors.

EY will facilitate the year-long programme and address various challenges affecting entrepreneurs such as access to markets, financial management, business management, corporate governance, investment management and access to finance.

Participants were selected for their readiness to grow their businesses and develop or expand their local footprints to be the next high-growth enterprises. 
- Zim Ind