YES Hosts EYWA Workshop on Access to Finance for Micro-SMMEs

The EYWA Project, co-financed by the European Union (DG INTPA) and led by the Chamber of Spain, is implemented in partnership with the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), Lulalab Foundation, and Youth Employment Service (YES). Together, they aim to strengthen public-private partnerships and empower 600 disadvantaged youth and women in Gauteng through skills development, mentorship, and access to resources. Youth are trained in key sectors such as Culinary Arts, Solar Energy, and Information Technology (IT) to enhance employability and drive local socioeconomic growth.

On 3 September 2025, YES proudly hosted an Employability for Youth and Women in South Africa (EYWA) Workshop at our Head Office in Rosebank, Johannesburg. The workshop formed part of the EYWA Project, co-funded by the European Union (DG INTPA) and led by the Official Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Services, and Navigation of Spain. The Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and Lulalab Foundation are also key partners in this initiative. 

The event brought together experts from across South Africa and Europe to share best practices, highlight challenges, and propose actionable solutions. The insights will contribute to feedback to the European Union on how to strengthen access to finance for micro-SMEs in Gauteng.

This year’s workshop explored the theme: “Access to Finance for Micro-SMMEs”, a critical challenge for young entrepreneurs, particularly women. Discussions focused on:

Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Mentorship & Support

• Insights from Spain’s Chamber of Commerce on connecting entrepreneurs with financial institutions.
• The role of mentorship and support structures in helping entrepreneurs access funding.

Understanding the South African Microfinance Ecosystem

• An overview of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and private lenders.
• Differences between microloans, grants, and blended finance.
• Case studies of youth and women accessing funding opportunities.

Bridging the Gap: Barriers and Innovative Solutions

• Addressing gender-specific barriers to finance.
• The role of fintech and digital platforms in inclusion.
• Policy recommendations and opportunities for public-private partnerships.

YES is proud to have played a role in convening this important dialogue and remains committed to building opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs to thrive.