Three things happening in agriculture today, 14 September 2020

Brace for impact! It is Monday morning and the madness begins as this week’s agricultural calendar is busy, busy, busy.

First up, wine producers are reminded to register for the Winetech Vinpro webinar. This week Robertson and the Klein Karoo regions take center stage for an informative dialogue into management practices for trunk diseases.

Entrepreneurs in agri and beyond have been urged to apply to the SAB Foundation’s Tholoana Enterprise Programme. The incubatory programme promises to impart business skills to no more than 60 candidates.

Also, Distell asks people to drink responsibly – and the industry to trade responsibly – through a R6 million incentive programme that will be distributed among taverns, bars and liquor outlets to foster a culture of responsible drinking.

1

Winetech Vinpro webinar

Wine producers are reminded to register for the Winetech Vinpro webinar for the Robertson and Klein Karoo regions, which take place from 9:00 until 11:15 on Wednesday.

To ensure the health and safety of participants amid the global covid-19 pandemic the weekly wine event has taken to the digital sphere to deliver a series of informative webinars.

The Robertson and Klein Karoo session’s program includes an overview of new technology and implements, as well as a future look at stock levels and wine prices following the covid-19 pandemic.

Producers can join in on the conversation regarding management practices for trunk diseases and their role in the dieback of bearers and poor bud break. They can also find out what options are available to them if the industry will no longer be allowed to spray Mancozeb. Register for the online event here.

2

Entrepreneurs, grab this opportunity

Entrepreneurs should not idle this week as the closing date for the SAB Foundation’s Tholoane Enterprise programme is fast approaching. Seriously, you have until the 30^th to grab a seat in this once-a-year programme!

It is a two-year business support programme that assists entrepreneurs with access to markets, experienced business mentors and critical training to help grow their business.

To date the SAB foundation has invested over R157 million in business support to support 473 programme participants, simultaneously increasing their collective turnover by 85%.

Hurry, because seats are limited. Only the 60 entrepreneurs who show the most potential and commitment will be selected to take part.

The invitation to apply to the Tholoana Enterprise Programme is extended to entrepreneurs who meet the following requirements:

• The business is black-owned and operational, viable, and sustainable; 
• The business is headquartered and registered within South African; 
• The applicant is involved with the day-to-day operations of the business;
• The business has been in operation for six months to five years; 
• The applicant possesses the essential knowledge and skills for the type of business that they are engaged in; 
• The applicant can fully commit to the two-year programme and seeks to create positive change; 
• The applicant is committed to the process, is willing to learn and implement new strategies to grow their business; and
• The applicant has demonstrated ethical and high moral standards.

Applications close on 30 September 2020. Apply here.

3

Distell launches responsible trader programme

Distell is beefing up collaboration with taverns, bars and restaurants to promote responsible alcohol consumption, offering a total of R6 million in incentives and support for outlets reopening their doors to trade responsibly, fostering a culture of responsible drinking and following covid-19 safety practices.

The resumption of alcohol sales following a temporary suspension during the lockdown has been accompanied by heightened concerns over the abuse of alcohol.

Distell’s Responsible Trade Programme is a partnership with 24 000 outlets throughout the country, including high-end restaurants, bars, taverns and eateries. The aim is to prevent under-age drinking and binge drinking by raising awareness among patrons and ensuring no alcohol is sold to intoxicated or under-aged persons, as well as intervening should patrons attempt to drive home after drinking.