Following on from the unprecedented success of the 2021 Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership, Food Lover’s Market has opened applications for the second consecutive year to allow aspiring social entrepreneurs to join the company as a supplier.

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Aims of Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership

• Sustainably produce organic honey and vegetables for processing into food, health, and beauty products
• Conserve and strengthen natural environments by using sustainable and organic farming practices by introducing bees and organic farming principles into areas the biodiversity improves.

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Selection Process

Once applications close, the top twenty will be selected. They will attend a two-day workshop on 8 and 9 April 2022. The workshop will give them a taste of the retail experience and what will be required to become part of the supplier network.

The top ten will be announced on 19 April 2022. They will also attend a four-day Bootcamp between 9 and 12 May 2022. In this Bootcamp, they will receive the guidance, mentorship, and necessary skills to market their business.

They will also be exposed to a macro view of the global and South African retail landscape including trends, challenges as well as opportunities within the sector. The top ten businesses will then do a final “Fertile Ground” pitch to the Food Lover’s Market board on 13 May 2022, Moreover, the successful applicant will be announced on the same day.

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Qualifying Criteria

• social enterprises that fit into the fresh produce and food retail environments.
• The retailer intends to prioritize applications from businesses that will add value to the Food Lover’s Market shopping experience.
• Also, the business should be operational for 12 months.
• The business should show financial stability.
• In addition, the business should have a business Plan showcasing successful implementation.