The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), in partnership with uMlando Creatives and the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality, hosted the highly anticipated The Next Billionaire Business Awards on 05 December 2025 at Ugu Sport and Leisure Centre within the Ugu District Municipality.
This partnership delivered a well-coordinated and impactful programme that showcased the region’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, nurturing talent, and strengthening the local economy.
The prestigious event brought together business leaders, creatives, government representatives, and local stakeholders in a celebration of excellence, collaboration, and economic empowerment.
The awards recognised both emerging and established entrepreneurs who demonstrated outstanding innovation, resilience, and meaningful contributions to economic growth within the district. The programme also inspired aspiring young business leaders, provided a valuable networking platform for industry participants, and reinforced government’s ongoing efforts to support small businesses and the creative sector.
Award categories included:
Agriculture; Beauty and Image Consulting; Industrial Sewing and Production; Best Business in Cleaning and Hygiene; Food and Beverage; Culinary Arts; Manufacturing; Best Mobile Café; Tourism and Hospitality; Best Content Creators; Best Business in Digital Media Production; Best Business in Sport; Spa and Therapeutic Services; Cosmetics and Manufacturing; Acknowledged Awards; Emerging Business; Top Achiever; The Next Billionaire Women of the Year 2025; and The Next Billionaire of the Year 2025.
