In a province where townships and rural enterprises continue to serve as catalysts of economic activity, KwaZulu-Natal's entrepreneurial landscape is increasingly being shaped by the resilience, innovation and determination of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses play a vital role in stimulating local economies, creating employment opportunities and strengthening community development, particularly in deprived areas where access to funding, business support and market opportunities is often constrained. As demand for sustainable economic partnerships grows, initiatives that intentionally invest in grassroots entrepreneurship have become essential to driving inclusive economic growth across the province and solving critical social issues.
The Hollywood Foundation continues to strengthen its commitment to entrepreneurship development
It is in this context that the Hollywood Foundation continues to strengthen its commitment to entrepreneurship development through the 2026 edition of the award. Bambelela Business Awards In KwaZulu-Natal. Now in its third consecutive year in the province, the initiative continues to build on the success of previous editions by creating impactful opportunities for entrepreneurs operating in township and rural economies, while strengthening the Foundation’s long-term commitment to sustainable MSME empowerment and socio-economic development.
Empowering the grassroots: the heart of KwaZulu-Natal's economy
In a province where townships and rural enterprises continue to serve as catalysts of economic activity, KwaZulu-Natal's entrepreneurial landscape is increasingly being shaped by the resilience, innovation and determination of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). in Businesses play an important role Stimulate local economies, create employment opportunities and strengthen community development, particularly in deprived areas where access to funding, business support and market opportunities is often constrained. As demand for sustainable economic partnerships grows, initiatives that intentionally invest in grassroots entrepreneurship have become essential to driving inclusive economic growth across the province and solving critical social issues.
2026 Bambelela Business Awards: A Legacy of Commitment
It is in this context that the Hollywood Foundation continues to strengthen its commitment to entrepreneurship development through the 2026 edition of the prestigious Bambalela Business Awards in KwaZulu-Natal. Now in its third consecutive year in the province, the initiative continues to build on the success of previous editions by creating impactful opportunities for entrepreneurs operating in township and rural economies, while strengthening the Foundation’s long-term commitment to sustainable MSME empowerment and socio-economic development.
Strategic investment and increasing reach
This year, the Hollywood Foundation increased its investment in the program from R1 million to R1 135 000, a strategic funding boost that will be distributed among twenty eligible MSMEs in the province. The increased investment reflects the Foundation's continued belief in the potential of local entrepreneurs and its commitment to supporting businesses that demonstrate both commercial viability and measurable community impact.
Following a highly competitive application process, 128 MSMEs were selected to participate in the programme, highlighting both the growing demand for entrepreneurial support in KwaZulu-Natal and the depth of emerging business talent. Applications were received from different parts of the province, including eThekwini Municipality, Empangeni, Richards Bay, Pietermaritzburg, Greytown, Port Shepstone and Ulundi, reflecting the extensive entrepreneurial activity taking place in both urban and rural communities.
Women-owned businesses are making a significant contribution
In particular, women-owned enterprises are contributing significantly to the province's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with women-owned businesses accounting for 66% of qualified applicants. This strong representation highlights the growing impact of women entrepreneurs in driving economic transformation, innovation and sustainable community upliftment within KwaZulu-Natal.
More than funding: building sustainable capacity
Via Bambelela Business Awards Hollywood Foundation Continues to provide more than just financial aid. The initiative serves as a platform for enterprise growth, collaboration and long-term business sustainability by creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to strengthen their operational capabilities, expand their networks and position themselves for future growth.
Commenting on the significance of the event, Vuyisiele Ngobase, Public Relations Officer for the Hollywood Foundation, said, “The Bambalela Business Awards continues to showcase the incredible entrepreneurial potential that exists within township and rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal. Through this initiative, we are deliberately investing in businesses that are not only contributing to economic activity but also creating meaningful impact within their communities.”
Ngobse stressed the importance of sustainable entrepreneurship development in advancing economic inclusion and strengthening local economies.
“Small businesses remain at the heart of economic participation and job creation. By supporting entrepreneurs through strategic funding and growth opportunities, we are contributing to the development of resilient enterprises capable of creating sustainable livelihoods and long-term economic impact.” He concluded.
Government support and provincial alignment
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, who delivered the keynote address during the awards ceremony, praised the success of the awards, highlighting their role in uplifting communities and celebrating local excellence. He said such initiatives are in line with the province's broader development goals and stressed the importance of partnerships that drive meaningful social impact. “As a provincial government, we are committed to working with organizations like the Hollywood Foundation to expand opportunities, empower our people and build a stronger, more inclusive KwaZulu-Natal.” He expressed optimism about future cooperation.
The 2026 KwaZulu-Natal Bambelela Business Awards is establishing itself as an important catalyst for entrepreneurship development and inclusive economic participation within the province. Through ongoing investment in local enterprises, the Hollywood Foundation is committed to promoting sustainable business growth, strengthening township and rural economies and making a meaningful contribution to South Africa's broader socio-economic transformation agenda.
Top 20 winners:
First Prize Winner and Winner of R145000: Hala Lisa (Pty) Ltd
Second Prize Winner and Winner of R115000: PitchBright (Pty) Ltd
Third-prize winner and winner of R85000: Makoti Boot Camp (Pty) Ltd
Seventeen runners-up and recipients of R45000
- Sparkling Touch Holdings (Pty) Limited
- Samke Boutique Craft (Pty) Ltd
- We Stand Well Holdings (Pty) Limited
- Armsdon Trading (Pty) Ltd
- International Group Horizon Education (Pty) Limited
- Sistas Fellas Trading & Projects (Pty) Ltd
- Impebe Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd
- Beyond Integrated Services (Pty) Limited
- Cleanfest (Pty) Ltd
- OZELL TRADING (PTY) LTD
- Honeylog (Pty) Ltd
- AMLESZ HEALTHCARE (PTY) LTD
- Umbilo Express Plant Hire (Pty) Ltd
- Richonile Investments (Pty) Limited
- Ikhaya Lazimomandia (Pty) Ltd
- Amandalenkosi Farms (Pte) Ltd
- Ensikeloa (Pty) Ltd
Spot Award Winner
Recipient of R12 500 – Facebook Marketing Contest: Crispy Comer (Pty) Ltd t/a Mikasa Kasi Cuisine
Recipient of the R6 250 – Early Bird Pitchers Award: GeoTx (PTI) LLD t/a Spazasure
Recipient of R6 250 – Best Presented Exhibition Stand: Hala Lisa (Pty) Ltd