A small bakery in Britstown is demonstrating how targeted business support and mentorship can turn a fledgling start-up into a thriving enterprise that creates local jobs and inspires the community.
Jo-Ann Matjan, the owner of Heavenly Treats, is a beneficiary of De Aar Solar Power’s Enterprise Development Programme.
This month, her business received a critical boost, enabling her to expand her offerings and services.
The support included new baking and catering equipment, funding for additional stock, kitchen uniforms, and essential hygiene and safety training, all of which have helped ensure her business meets the necessary health and safety requirements.
The first round of support came during the global pandemic in 2020, when this SMME, along with several other youth-owned local businesses, received financial assistance. This allowed Jo-Ann to secure a proper business location and purchase the essential equipment needed to launch her bakery. The programme also facilitated her obtaining an essential service certificate, enabling her to continue setting up her premises during the lockdown.
This ensured that she could meet key obligations and keep her business operational during a challenging period.
“When Jo-Ann first joined our programme in mid-2020, she had no formal premises, minimal equipment, and no formal training.
“She was operating from her home, and like many others, faced immense challenges during the Covid-19 lockdown,” said Yolanda Madyira, economic development specialist at De Aar Solar Power.
Jo-Ann’s Heavenly Treats now employs three staff members, and has diversified its product range, now offering birthday and wedding cakes, hot chips, coffee, doughnuts, and freshly baked bread.
“I’m really thankful for the support from De Aar Solar Power. With this funding, I can keep baking, expand my business, and reach more customers, which will help my bakery grow,” Matjan says.
De Aar Solar Power’s Enterprise Development Programme is designed to foster small businesses in De Aar, Hanover, Philipstown, and Britstown in the Pixley Ka Seme District.
“Supporting youth enterprises like Jo-Ann’s is important for De Aar Solar Power,” said Madyira.
“It helps address rising youth unemployment rates, and by supporting young entrepreneurs, we foster a cycle of success where businesses grow and provide employment to other community members.”
