The competition recognises and rewards entrepreneurs for the hard work and passion that they put into their business, as well as the vital role they play within the country's economy. The closing date for entries is 16 June 2015.
The competition provides entrepreneurs with the chance to win prizes up to the value of R2m, which includes cash prizes to the value of R350,000, as well as valuable mentorship support, networking opportunities and associated marketing and national media exposure.
Now in its 27th year, the free-to-enter competition has become South Africa's pre-eminent entrepreneurial platform, and embraces local entrepreneurship by providing an opportunity to showcase business achievements and elevate the entrepreneur's profile, as well as their profits.
Christo Botes, spokesperson for the Sanlam/Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year competition, says that the competition serves as a promotional tool to not only create awareness for entrepreneurship in South Africa, but also for local entrepreneurs to generate a credible reputation amongst competitors.
"Smaller business often can't compete with larger market player's marketing spend and national advertising campaigns. Not only are such competition platforms cost-effective, but if entrants are successful as finalists or winners, the awareness thereafter can have a significant effect on their business' brand and bottom line," says Botes.
An example is the 2014 Sanlam/Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year winners of the Judges Prize - Dudu and Leema Mofokeng, joint owners of Legaci Dry Cleaners and Laundry Services - who, through the exposure gained from the competition, have raised the profile of their company and as a result have witnessed an increase in business enquires and requests from prospective franchisees.
Categories for the competition include: Emerging Entrepreneur, Small Business Entrepreneur, Medium Business Entrepreneur, Innovator of the Year, Job Creator of the Year and overall Entrepreneur of the Year 2015.
