Tshwane — The Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA) is gearing up for the 2025 Tshwane Women in Business Awards (TWIBA), an event aimed at recognizing the achievements of women-led businesses in the capital city. Dr. Lardo Stander, the CEO of TEDA, highlighted the critical role these entrepreneurs play in the local economy, especially as they navigate systemic barriers.
Every year, TWIBA honors women who drive innovation and sustainability while addressing community needs. Despite significant obstacles, including limited access to funding and the challenge of balancing business with family responsibilities, women entrepreneurs in Tshwane are emerging as vital contributors to the economic landscape.
“Globally, women entrepreneurs contribute trillions to economies, yet they face persistent barriers,” said Dr. Stander. “In emerging markets like South Africa, these disparities are even more pronounced.”
In Tshwane, women are not merely participants in the economy; they are important to its growth, particularly in township areas such as Mamelodi, Soshanguve, and Hammanskraal. These regions are characterized by informal trade and small-scale businesses, often run by women who manage both family duties and economic activities.
Dr. Stander emphasized the significant contributions of women entrepreneurs, who generate jobs and support local supply chains while adopting sustainable practices in fields such as agribusiness and green energy. However, challenges persist. Women-owned businesses often receive only a small portion of the available funding compared to their male counterparts. Furthermore, a lack of digital literacy and insufficient networking opportunities impede their entry into the market.
TEDA launched TWIBA in 2022 as part of its broader initiative to support women-led businesses. The awards aim to recognize individual achievements and provide a platform for these businesses to gain visibility and access to funding opportunities.
“The success of women-led businesses has a ripple effect, uplifting entire communities and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs,” Dr. Stander noted.
With entries for TWIBA 2025 now open, TEDA encourages women entrepreneurs to participate. The awards offer a chance for recognition among peers and evaluation by accomplished women leaders in business.
Despite the persistent barriers, the resilience of women in Tshwane is evident. “When you walk across our capital, you notice women who run informal businesses, rising early to provide for their families,” Dr. Stander remarked.
As Tshwane looks to the future, the agency emphasizes the importance of gender-inclusive strategies, including targeted funding programs and mentorship networks, to support women entrepreneurs.
In a region where economic growth is often stymied by historical inequalities, investing in women-led businesses may prove essential for fostering inclusive growth that benefits all residents of Tshwane.
For more information on TWIBA and how to apply, visit [www.teda.org.za/TWIBA] or contact info@teda.org.za.
