OM SEED 2024 empowers 40 entrepreneurs
Seed funding
OM SEED was launched in 2022 and has reached six regions to date.
The Old Mutual Foundation is pleased to present the 40 shortlisted candidates for the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) Entrepreneurship Programme, which is currently in its third edition. This initiative maintains its objective to promote entrepreneurship, accelerate economic growth and address the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Namibia in collaboration with its partners, Basecamp and the Financial Literacy Initiative (FLI).
OM SEED was launched in 2022 and has reached six regions to date.
This year’s focus is the Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Zambezi and Kavango West regions whereas in 2025, OM SEED will reach out to entrepreneurs in Kunene, Omaheke, Omusati and Otjozondjupa – covering a total of 14 regions in three years.
Since its founding, OM SEED has played a significant role in fostering grassroots entrepreneurship by giving prospective business owners access to funding, incubator and mentorship support and is dedicated to creating a robust and welcoming entrepreneurial environment in Namibia.
Patricia Olivier, Old Mutual Foundation chairperson and managing director of the corporate segment stated: "We are thrilled to announce the top 40 shortlisted candidates for the 2024 OM SEED Initiative. The expansion of this initiative into new regions marks a significant step in our mission to support local entrepreneurs nationwide. By providing them with the necessary resources and recognition, we are driving economic growth, enhancing community resilience, and contributing to the country’s sustainable development goals."
Rigorous
The selection process for the programme is rigorous, involving comprehensive evaluations and on-site visits to the businesses of the ten shortlisted entrepreneurs in each town.
These visits, scheduled for June 2024, will culminate in the identification of the top three candidates in each town who will receive financial support and incubation assistance.
Here's a list of the shortlisted candidates per region:
Top 10 - Zambezi
Kamwi Musweu
Masule Brendan Nchindo
Thaddius Masule
Shepherd Nyombe
Georgina Nankole Likukela
Joseph Moowa Kalokela
Rhonel Libana
Mercy Kachaka Kachaka
Zecks Musiyena Linosi
Beaven Simasiku Mulijani
Top 10 - Kavango West
Salomi Vilkuna Kambala
Ester Wayivhwa Haita
McDonald Matheus Naughulu
Januarius Hamutenya
Anselm Matamu
Josephine Kapango
Frans Kaunda
Johannes Sheya
Lina Luizi
Daniel Kandjimi
Top 10 - Ohangwena
Peneyambeko Kashimba
Niingo Martha Nghishindwa
Alma Naitsuwe Kayofa
Steve-Biko Nghiwewelekwa
Elizabeth Povanhu
Velasia David
Festus Elago
Juso Mwandingi
Ndapunikwa Justina Weyulu
Ester Magano Hango
Top 10 - Oshikoto
Theohill Veldtschoen
Twafeni Letisiya Jona
Vilho Linekela Mushelenge
Maria Shangula
Robert Natangwe Johannes
Clemens Mupili
Alexa Burmeu
Theodor Shithigona
Ella Nghifindaka
Johannes Hilukilwa
Awards
Three winners will be chosen from each of the four regions: ; the first award will be worth N$50 000, the second prize N$30 000 and the third prize N$20 000.
These grants will serve as catalysts, empowering the winners to scale their businesses, create more employment opportunities and significantly contribute to Namibia's economic growth and development.
The Old Mutual Foundation believes that together, through entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices, a resilient and inclusive future for all Namibians can be built.