NC Upholsters
| Business Location: | Urban |
| Province | Eastern Cape |
| Branch: | Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Business Start Date: | |
| Busniess Type: | Sole Proprietor |
Business Dynamics and Challenges
Business Activities:
Furniture Manufacturing
Challenges/Needs:
Lack of access to international markets. The owner required assistance to access international markets as she wants to grow her brand and export.
Lack of equipment. The equipment was outdated and would not be able to accommodate an increase in demand.
Access to finance. The owner required assistance with development of a bankable business plan and feasibility study for the purpose of applying for funding.
Intervention Insights and Results
Intervention Details:
The owner of NC Upholsters approached Seda and was assisted by Lizle Schultz at the Nelson Mandela Bay Branch. After conducting an assessment, the business gaps were identified, and the following improvement interventions were implemented.
The owner was assisted to attend the FACIM Trade Show in Mozambique; and the “Inspire Me” conference in Kenya, in 2024.
She also exhibited at the Global Ministerial Meeting in Johannesburg this year.
Ms. Bosman was assisted to submit an Asset Assist grant application for the purpose of acquiring new upgraded equipment.
A business plan and feasibility study were developed for NC Upholsters to submit for funding purposes.
The owner was assisted to attend the FACIM Trade Show in Mozambique; and the “Inspire Me” conference in Kenya, in 2024.
She also exhibited at the Global Ministerial Meeting in Johannesburg this year.
Ms. Bosman was assisted to submit an Asset Assist grant application for the purpose of acquiring new upgraded equipment.
A business plan and feasibility study were developed for NC Upholsters to submit for funding purposes.
Outcome Details:
The business was able to access more markets and make valuable contacts through the exhibitions attended.
The Asset Assist grant application to the value of R 249 838.25 was approved and new upgraded equipment were bought.
The business owner submitted the business plan and feasibility study for funding.
Employment increased by 16.67 % from six to seven employees (including the owner).
The Asset Assist grant application to the value of R 249 838.25 was approved and new upgraded equipment were bought.
The business owner submitted the business plan and feasibility study for funding.
Employment increased by 16.67 % from six to seven employees (including the owner).
Client Feedback
Client Comments:
"I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to SEDFA for their unwavering support throughout my entrepreneurial journey. From asset assist funding, exhibition opportunities, and mentorship programmes to the dedicated guidance from the Nelson Mandela Bay branch, their support has been instrumental in helping me grow, create impact, and position my business for long-term success"
