Mbabane – The StartUp Grind panel discussion, involving SEDCO and Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund (YERF) which gave focus to the crucial elements required to start and sustain viable youth-led businesses resulted in a roadmap for business success for aspiring young entrepreneurs.
Coordinated by Siphiwo Dlamini, the session featured YERF’s Tandzile Fakudze and Bhekani Dlamini from SEDCO as panellists.
The emphasis was more on the topic that entrepreneurship must begin with a solid idea generation and market validation.
Fakudze highlighted the importance of sustainability, profitability, visibility, and growth when assessing business concepts for funding.
“Before applying, the youth must ensure their idea is viable and relevant to Eswatini’s economy,” she said.
Fakudze outlined YERF’s detailed value chain, which includes stages such as consultation, documentation, assessment, approval, disbursement, and mentorship.
She made it clear that the fund does not provide cash directly to beneficiaries, but instead disburses funds through vendors and suppliers. She also revealed that mentorship is a key post-funding phase to ensure accountability and growth, with young entrepreneurs required to engage actively in the process.
Dlamini, representing SEDCO, warned against rushing into business registration without a clear value proposition or understanding of the market problem being addressed.
“Formalising without a real business opportunity is a mistake,” he said, adding that many register businesses just to access tenders.
“Start with a concept note backed by a real market need.”
He also introduced the concept of entrepreneurship and investment readiness, advising young entrepreneurs to assess themselves before seeking funding. According to Dlamini, legal compliance, including having valid trading licenses and proper documentation, is essential not only for operating legally but also for accessing formal markets and financial support.
Both speakers addressed the importance of partnerships and team-building in business. Dlamini urged young people to find shareholders or partners that complement their weaknesses, particularly in finance. “Don’t partner with someone who mirrors your strengths,” he advised. “Strategic alignment is key.”
Fakudze also pointed out common red flags in YERF applications, such as incomplete forms, lack of market research, inflated financial projections, and poor engagement with the application process.
“Many fail because they don’t know their target market or have unrealistic cash flow forecasts,” she noted.
The panel concluded by reinforcing the importance of proper planning, documentation, and mentorship.
As both institutions prepare to continue supporting youth entrepreneurship, attendees were encouraged to revisit their business concepts, align them with real market gaps, and take advantage of the structured support available through both YERF and SEDCO.
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