Tag: small business

MDDA calls for community media grant applications

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The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) recently made a call encouraging community media projects with valid class broadcast service licenses, including radio, TV, and community print publications, as well as small commercial print, to apply for the 2024/25 grant funding.

The application window officially opened on 31 May 2024 and will close on 28 June 2024.

The MDDA said community media projects of all sizes are encouraged to apply.

“The MDDA aims to encourage media ownership, access and control to media, particularly by historically disadvantaged communities and diminished indigenous languages and cultural groups,” it said.

For print and digital publications, this year’s grant funding application call is focusing on Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State and the Western Cape.

For more updates regarding MDDA-related news and information, go to @MDDA_Media or WhatsApp 0635094934.

Beware of GCIS tender scam

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Kindly note, there might be a possible Tender Scam using the details of the Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) officials and the Department.

GCIS calls on the Service Providers and the Public at large to be aware and alert of the scam going around which requires upfront payment in doing business with the GCIS Department;

These fraudsters use fictitious GCIS Department documents like letters of appointment, official purchase order/s and contracts supposedly from GCIS Department with false signatures of the officials from GCIS. The fraudsters knows the names of the officials from the Department namely the CFO, Director: SCM and other officials within the Department. They communicate through mobile contact and email refers to the attached email from the scammers.

GCIS emphasize and advise the Service Providers including the Public at large not to make any upfront payment request and report the matter to the Law enforcement/authorities.

Service Providers are requested to verify the authenticity of the request/purchase order on 012 473 0000.

Looking to transition from Print to Digital media? Consider this short guide

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Press machine printing newspaper

The changing technology landscape has indeed had significant implications for print media worldwide, including in South Africa.

As digital platforms and online news consumption continue to grow, print media has faced challenges such as declining readership and advertising revenue.

However, there are still opportunities for print media to adapt and thrive in this changing environment.

To address the gaps and leverage the potential of technology, here are some steps that can be taken:

  1. Embrace digital transformation: Print media organizations should focus on integrating digital platforms and technologies into their operations. This includes developing an online presence, creating digital editions, and exploring multimedia content such as videos and podcasts.
  2. Enhance online content and engagement: Develop high-quality, engaging content specifically tailored for online platforms. This can involve producing multimedia stories, interactive features, and utilizing social media to engage with readers and build a loyal online community.
  3. Invest in data analytics: Utilize data analytics tools to gain insights into reader preferences, interests, and behavior. This data can inform content creation, audience targeting, and advertising strategies, enabling print media companies to deliver personalized experiences and increase reader engagement.
  4. Collaborate with technology partners: Forge partnerships with technology companies, digital marketing agencies, or startups specializing in media innovation. These collaborations can provide access to expertise, resources, and cutting-edge technologies that can help print media companies navigate the digital landscape effectively.
  5. Develop new revenue streams: Diversify revenue streams beyond traditional advertising and print subscriptions. This can include exploring opportunities in digital advertising, sponsored content, events, e-commerce, and developing premium subscription models for exclusive content.

Getting the right funding is also vital

Regarding funding, there are several avenues to consider:

  1. Media grants and funding programs: Research and apply for grants and funding programs specifically designed for media organizations. These can be offered by governmental bodies, non-profit organizations, or media development agencies that support media innovation and sustainability.
  2. Corporate partnerships and sponsorships: Seek partnerships with companies that have an interest in supporting media and journalism. This could involve collaborations for branded content, event sponsorships, or corporate social responsibility initiatives.
  3. Venture capital and investment: Explore the possibility of attracting investment from venture capital firms or angel investors interested in media and technology. Present a compelling business case highlighting the potential of your media company to adapt to the changing landscape and deliver value.
  4. Crowdfunding and community support: Engage with your audience and community to garner support through crowdfunding campaigns or membership models. Many readers are willing to contribute financially to support journalism they value.

When applying for funding, it is advisable to apply as a media company or organization rather than an individual.

This demonstrates a structured and sustainable approach, and it aligns with the expectations of most funding bodies.

Make sure to thoroughly research the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines for each funding opportunity to increase your chances of success.

Remember, the specific skills required to address the gaps in South Africa’s print media landscape will vary based on the organization’s goals and the nature of the technology adoption.

However, some essential skills and knowledge areas to consider include digital content creation, data analytics, social media management, multimedia production, audience engagement, and business development in the digital media space.

Continuous learning and upskilling are critical to stay abreast of evolving technologies and trends in the industry.

Free tender workshop for Joburg SMMEs

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​​​​​The Department of Economic Development’s Enterprise Development Unit, the Joburg Market Opportunity Centre and Old Mutual will hold a workshop on Friday, 01 September 2023, for small, medium and micro enterprises.

It will take place at Metro Centre, 158 Civic Boulevard, in Braamfontein from 8am to 2pm.

The workshop will offer participants insights into running a successful business, particularly when dealing with tender documents.

Participants will be exposed to effective tendering applications including writing, submitting a clear and compelling tender submission, interpreting and understanding the tender requirements and many more.

Akona Bovula, the Manager at the Opportunity Centre, said the collaboration with Old Mutual’s SMEgo will provide practical and hands-on guidance that empower participants to tackle these challenges head-on.

“We recognise the challenges that entrepreneurs and businesses face when it comes to managing financial paperwork, especially within the context of tender documents. This workshop is a manifestation of our commitment to supporting local businesses and individuals in their growth journey,” said Bovula.

The workshop is targeted at small businesses that face challenges in applying for tenders and are seeking alternate avenues for financial support.

Bovula said participants will also receive an introduction to the range of financial assistance programmes offered through Old Mutual SMEgo.

“They will be guided on how to effectively navigate the platform, including creating an account, submitting relevant information, and applying for the various financial assistance options available within the application.”

To learn from experts in the field and connect with fellow entrepreneurs who are on a similar journey, secure your space by reserving your seat at 083 702 9712.

MDDA opens the call for grant funding applications 2023/24

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Closing date is on 17 July 2023, apply online or submit physically

The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) will officially open the 2023/24 Call for Grant Funding Applications for a six-week period commencing from 05 June 2023.

Community broadcast media projects, including radio, TV, and community print publications, as well as small commercial print are invited to apply.

This year, the MDDA is celebrating twenty years of fulfilling its mandate by providing grant funding and other support, with the aim to encourage media ownership, access and control to media particularly by historically disadvantaged communities and diminished Indigenous language and cultural groups.

The agency will be introducing a few changes to this call for applications for both community print and community broadcast applications.

Grant Funding remains one of the core functions of the MDDA and is also one of the central factors towards ensuring successful empowerment, sustainability, and transformation of the community media sector. The application process will be conducted through compliant, cost-effective, and transparent selection procedures, in-line with corporate governance principles and compliance with the Agency’s legislative framework.

Community print applications: Due to the minimal budget for community print, the call to community projects will take a targeted approach and invite applications from four provinces.

“The MDDA will rotate the provinces every year after this call. All applications will be received on the MDDA’s online application system found on the MDDA website. The call is targeting organizations owned or focusing on youth, women and persons with disabilities related content. This year, the call is not accepting digital media applications under the print portfolio as it will be targeting communities which rely on hardcopy publications and publish in indigenous languages to assist further the mandate of media development and diversity in rural communities,” the agency stated.

Community Broadcast applications will still target all nine provinces.

How to submit your application

Applications will only be accepted via the following channels: emailed or physically delivered to the MDDA offices in Auckland Park (Gate 13, 26 Canary Road, Auckland Park, SABC GSM Building.)

The qualifying criteria is obtainable on the MDDA website, www.mdda.org.za.

For more information on the grant applications call, contact Mzu Kashe on the following e-mail: margaret@mdda.org.za / 082 785 6071.

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