Absa Business Banking and MyDough are taking entrepreneurship support directly into communities across South Africa through a series of regional Enterprise Challenge events aimed at helping small businesses strengthen their operations, expand their networks and become investment-ready.
The initiative forms part of the broader Absa and MyDough partnership, which focuses on supporting entrepreneurs with practical tools, business development support and opportunities that go beyond access to finance.
Taking place across multiple regions between October and November, the programme will bring together entrepreneurs, business leaders and ecosystem partners to engage on the realities of building sustainable businesses in South Africa’s evolving economic landscape.
The programme reflects a shared belief that entrepreneurs require more than capital to succeed. Access to markets, mentorship, operational capability, confidence, networks and practical business support all play an important role in helping businesses grow and create long-term economic value.
Through the broader enterprise development initiative, entrepreneurs benefit from tailored interventions focused on business development, financial management and entrepreneurial growth support designed to help strengthen businesses and position them for future growth opportunities.
“At Absa, we believe that building successful businesses requires more than access to funding,” said Lane Mogashoa, Business Development Support -Enterprise Development, Absa Business Banking. “Entrepreneurs need support, networks, knowledge and opportunities that help them grow sustainably. Our partnership with MyDough demonstrates our commitment to helping businesses move from potential to performance while contributing to inclusive economic growth across South Africa.”
“The entrepreneurs participating in this programme represent the resilience, innovation and ambition that drive South Africa’s economy. Through our partnership with Absa, we are creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, learn from experts and connect with ecosystems that help them grow,” added Abed Tau, CEO MyDough
The regional events are expected to provide participants with opportunities to engage with business experts, hear entrepreneurial success stories and access practical insights that can support business sustainability and growth.
As the programme progresses, selected entrepreneurs will continue their journey through the Enterprise Challenge, culminating in the national Popcorn and Pitch finale where entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to showcase their businesses on a national stage.
The regional programme will take place on the following dates:
- 2 October 2026: Gauteng, Johannesburg – Capital Hotel on the Park
- 6 October 2026: Limpopo, Polokwane – DeCollage Estate
- 8 October 2026: Northern Cape, Free State and North West, Rustenburg – Tshiberry Hotel
- 12 October 2026: KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, Durban – Capital Pearls Hotel
- 26 October 2026: Western Cape and Eastern Cape, Cape Town – Pepper Club
- 18 November 2026: National Popcorn and Pitch Finale, Ster-Kinekor Eastgate Mall, Johannesburg
For more information as finalists are confirmed for the running to win in the national finale, visit www.mydough.co.za
