The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Centre for Social Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubation (CSERI) hosted a GrowthWheel training session on 2 July 2026 at the Steve Biko Campus, introducing entrepreneurs to a globally recognised business advisory tool designed to support structured decision making and sustainable business growth.
The session formed part of CSERI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the capacity of small business owners within its incubation programme and was attended by 51 entrepreneurs from the Centre’s incubation cohort.
Facilitated by CSERI Business Development Officer, Ms Brightness Nonkosi Nyawose, the training equipped participants with practical insights into using GrowthWheel to assess their businesses, identify priorities and develop clear action plans.
GrowthWheel is a visual business advisory tool used worldwide to help entrepreneurs and business advisors simplify complex business decisions. The framework is organised around four key business areas: Customers, Organisation, Operations and Value Proposition. It enables users to map challenges, monitor progress and focus on the activities that matter most for business growth.
Through practical, hands-on exercises, participants applied the tool to their own businesses, working through each focus area to identify their current position and determine the steps required to achieve future growth. The tool helps entrepreneurs stay organised, make informed decisions and take consistent action towards building sustainable businesses.
For many participants, the session provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Sbusiso Makhubela of Bakwena Memorials said the training encouraged him to think more strategically about his business.
“Today’s session was very interesting because it encouraged me to think more deeply about where my business is at the moment. If you use the tool effectively, it guides you towards where your business is going. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn about GrowthWheel, as I believe it will be a valuable tool for my entire organisation. It will also help my team understand where the business is and where we are going. The interactive nature of the session enhanced the learning experience. Thank you for the opportunity,” he said.
The interactive format encouraged participants to engage actively with the GrowthWheel framework, moving beyond theory to apply its principles directly to the realities of their own businesses.
The GrowthWheel training session reflects CSERI’s broader mandate of equipping entrepreneurs with practical, results driven tools that support sustainable business growth within the Greater Durban region. As the incubation cohort continues its journey with CSERI, initiatives such as this reinforce the Centre’s role in developing the strategic capacity of the entrepreneurs it supports.
Pictured: CSERI Business Development Officer Ms Brightness Nonkosi Nyawose, speaking at the event.
Photographer: Luvuyo Mntambo
Snelisiwe Hlongwane
