Hub@Goethe opens applications for next cohort of entrepreneurs

“The initiative worked as a catalyst for me to realise my idea in a short period,” says artist, curator and founder of Basile Art and Projects Ivy Rihlampfu.

Rihlampfu was part of the 2019 Hub@Goethe intensive mentorship programme for cultural and social start-ups, which takes entrepreneurs on a journey of developing the foundation of their companies.

“I had to go out there and test what my businesses needed, and through this rigorous process I realised I had overstated a lot of what I thought I needed to see my idea through,” she adds.

The initiative is open to creatives, innovators, space makers, game changers and developers of all nationalities, with projects centred on cultural and social impact.

Through Basile Art and Projects, Rihlampfu aims to promote art accessibility by hosting pop-up exhibitions and performances from up-and-coming creative artists.

Through the initiatives, she hopes to establish a pathway between art buyers and emerging artists, ignite enthusiasm for buying art, and educate people about the importance of supporting emerging artists.

“Within the programme, I learnt essential elements for doing business. This was especially important for me because I didn’t come from a background of business. With the help of mentors, coaches and speakers, I learnt quite a great deal as someone who came in with a business opportunity that was in the idea phase.

“The vitality of collaborations was significant. I managed to find collaborations with people whose strengths complemented my weaknesses, and mine theirs,” says Rihlampfu.

“Entrepreneurs have a lot to gain from the exposure, conversations and networking that this initiative offers,” she concludes.

. Candidates must be based in Johannesburg for the duration of the programme

. Applications are open until February 7

. Visit Goethe.de/joburg/hub  for more information

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