|
 by
Khwezi Gule
The Thekwini Business Development Centre forms an important
part of the Durban Unicity’s vision of making Durban a viable
and growing commercial centre. It is a business advice and
support centre, which is dedicated to the promotion of emerging
entrepreneurs, with the aim of assisting people to set up
and successfully manage their own businesses. It also provides
courses and seminars on various business-related matters such
as taxes, preparing tender documents, registration of companies,
marketing, etc.
Another
important function of the TBDC is to link small, micro and
medium sized enterprises (SMMEs) with large corporates with
the aim of enabling SMMEs to reap the benefits of outsourcing
of non-core functions.
The TBDC also hosts events such as the Small Business Fair
where entrepreneurs can display their wares, share information
and make business contacts with both suppliers and possible
customers.
The head offices, located in Alice Street, provide business
premises for SMMEs as varied as a magazine, a florist, a bakery
etc. The main office at these premises also has a vast resource
centre where members of the public can catch up on the most
up-to-date business information and news as well as the latest
periodicals, newspapers and magazines. Visitors to the TBDC
will also find a bulletin board with tender notices and upcoming
training opportunities.
Five satellite centres in Molweni, Inanda, Umlazi, Clermont
and Inchanga were set up in order to bring the services of
the TBDC closer to the people.
The TBDC enjoys the backing of several big companies in various
sectors including manufacturing, transportation, finance,
etc. The centre, which is headed by its CEO Mr Protas Madlala,
is administered by the board of directors under the chairmanship
of Durban Unicity Mayor Cllr Obed Mlaba.
Enquiries: Miss Zodwa Mokoena, 127 Alice Street, Durban
or P.O. Box 623, Durban 4000. Tel: (031) 309 5432; Fax: (031)
309 5437.
|
