Twenty emerging entrepreneurs from across eThekwini recently secured a place in the prestigious Project 10X Unicorn Programme after being announced during a launch event at KZN Oils in Briardene. The entrepreneurs were selected from more than 200 applicants.

The programme is a partnership between eThekwini Municipality, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), KZN Oils, and the RR Foundation.

The beneficiaries will embark on a 10-month enterprise and supplier development programme offering mentorship, incubation support, business development training, and financial assistance aimed at accelerating growth and improving market readiness.

Chairperson of the city’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the initiative is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to become active participants in the mainstream economy.

“Project 10X is not just a training programme – it is an investment in building resilient, high-growth businesses capable of creating jobs, reducing poverty, and driving inclusive economic growth. Through mentorship, incubation support, and access to new opportunities, we are creating a bridge between business potential and market integration,” said Cllr Ntuli.

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KZN Oils’ chief executive officer, Esay Reddy, said entrepreneurship remains a powerful tool for transforming lives and tackling unemployment. This initiative goes far beyond business development. Its impact reaches families and communities.

KZN Oils has been in business for more than 25 years, and the journey has not been easy. I encourage beneficiaries to remain patient, courageous, and committed.

“The Project 10X philosophy is about thinking beyond and challenging businesses to realise their full potential,” said Reddy.

Thami Zondi from EDTEA said the Department is proud to support initiatives that strengthen small businesses, unlock economic opportunities, and contribute to sustainable growth in KwaZulu-Natal. One of the beneficiaries, Nozipho Memela, founder of governance, risk, compliance, and audit software company, Dimeri AI, described her selection as a significant milestone.

“Being chosen from among hundreds of other applicants is a proud achievement.I look forward to learning, growing strategically and professionally, and benefiting from the support and expertise of industry leaders. This opportunity will help me build a sustainable and successful business,” she said.

The programme builds on the success of its inaugural cohort last year, which helped participants improve business compliance, financial literacy, operational capacity and market readiness, demonstrating the impact of targeted support for emerging enterprises.