By 
By Delisa Magagula
FNB Eswatini through its Foundation, FNB Eswatini Foundation, have announced a E1.7 million sponsorship package for the 19th edition of the Eswatini Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EYA).
This sponsorship reflects a 6.25% increase from the E1.6 million provided in 2024. The announcement was made during the official launch of the awards held at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini on Tuesday.
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Delivering the keynote remarks, FNB Eswatini CEO Thokozani Dlamini confirmed the increased support, noting that this year’s sponsorship will continue to cover the grand prize for the overall national winner, as well as prizes for both national and regional category winners.
“I am therefore pleased to announce that the joint FNB Eswatini and FNB Eswatini Foundation sponsorship package for this year’s EYA stands at E1.7 million,” said Dlamini.
This sponsorship package covers the grand prize for the national winner as well as the prize monies for national and regional winners.
Dlamini added that the bank remains committed to the development of local entrepreneurs through tailored financial offerings such as invoice discounting and SME-focused insurance products.
“Our performance and invoice discounting offerings are aimed at ensuring that SMEs keep doing business and their doors remain open, while our insurance offerings cover their businesses in case of disruptions, big or small,” he said.
This year, FNB will sponsor seven award categories at both the regional and national levels. These include Youth-Owned Business, Women-Owned Business, Most Innovative Business, Techno-Savvy Business, Green Business, Agribusiness, and the Overall Regional Winner.
The bank also urged entrepreneurs across the country to submit entries for the 2025 edition, stating that participation alone provides invaluable exposure and growth opportunities.
“While we cannot all win, the experience you get from taking part in such competitions has the potential of transforming your business,” Dlamini said.
The Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Honourable Manqoba Khumalo, who officiated the launch, commended FNB Eswatini and SEDCO for their consistent support of the awards and for fostering entrepreneurship in the country.
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“These awards play a vital role in encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit and recognising the efforts of those who are building businesses in challenging economic conditions,” the Minister said.
Organised annually by the Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO), the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards aim to celebrate and promote excellence among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Eswatini.
The competition is open to registered businesses that demonstrate compliance with national laws, innovation, and impact within their communities.
The deadline for applications will be announced by SEDCO in the coming weeks. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to follow official channels for updates and criteria for entry.
