Eddie Matoane and Mpho Mosiuoa of KAL Shoes were supported by the Communities Fund
Established in October 2007, our Communities Fund has made a significant and tangible impact on our communities near our mines by supporting small and medium enterprises, facilitating entrepreneurial opportunities and the subsequent creation of jobs.
The fund has breathed new life into our enterprise development and empowerment work in South Africa, further translating Anglo American Zimele's philosophy of ‘Independence through Enterprise’ into action.
The fund assists entrepreneurs with seed and working capital through loan finance of up to R1 million per project at preferential interest rates. Beneficiaries must operate in our business unit areas and comply with the black economic empowerment (BEE) criteria set by the Mining Charter.
Small Business Hub network
The Communities Fund works hand in glove with a network of 13 Small Business Hubs which are staffed and financed by our platinum, coal, iron ore and diamond businesses and are located in their respective areas of operation.
While the fund assists micro enterprises with seed and working capital, the hubs extend a guiding hand to entrepreneurs at walk-in centres.
These hubs offer practical support to emerging business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in the form of business plan assistance and management training and coaching. The hubs also offer telecommunications, internet, printing and meeting facilities while giving entrepreneurs advice on the day-to-day running of their businesses.
Small Business Hubs are located in the following areas: Click here for contact details
Guidelines
The Communities Fund provides loan funding of up to R1 million per project. Businesses applying for finance must operate within 50 kilometres or within the labour sending area of an Anglo American mining operation serviced by a hub. The entrepreneur must be a member of the local community.
Find out about the fund’s evaluation criteria and application processes.