Cognitive psychologist Dr Scott Barry Kaufman found that 72% of people have their brightest sparks of creativity in the shower. But coming up with a great idea is just the beginning. Most people never move beyond that to execute their idea. And of those who do take the leap into launching a business, a staggering 96% of them won’t make it – they’re eliminated by the market or outdone by their competitors.
Conceptualising a product that not only stands out in a competitive market but is also practical, novel andprofitable is incredibly difficult. This cutthroat competition gives the contestants, who are all entrepreneurs – as well as the viewers watching at home – a real understanding of how much thought, effort and strategy it takes to design a product or service that has a chance of surviving in the market.
Conceptualising market-ready products in record time
From concept development and product design to marketing strategy and pitching to potential investors, every step in Engen The Making Of is designed to test the creativity, business savvy and grit of the ten starting contestants. In each of the eight episodes, their challenge is to solve a different industry-specific problem by conceptualising a game-changing product or service, which they have to do in under four hours. As contestants are eliminated, the pressure mounts on the remaining contestants to meet the judges’ rising expectations – every detail and decision becomes critical to their survival in the competition.
The programme is produced by Raizcorp, one of Africa’s leading incubators and CEO, Allon Raiz, says, “We wanted to create a show that doesn’t just entertain but gives audiences an authentic look at what it takes to build a successful product or service. The Making Of is a journey into the realities of building a product and creating something that truly adds value in the marketplace.”
Explaining why Engen chose to sponsor The Making Of, Manager Transformation & Stakeholder Engagement, Sim Manqina says, “It is important for Engen to contribute to South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem because fostering entrepreneurship drives economic growth, creates jobs, and promotes innovation. By empowering entrepreneurs, especially in historically disadvantaged communities, Engen supports inclusive economic development while aligning with its corporate social responsibility goals. Our investment in The Making Of will help strengthen the local economy, cultivate future business partners, and enhance the company’s reputation as a socially responsible leader committed to sustainability and national development goals.”
Contestants compete for their share of R800 000 in cash
There’s R100 000 in cash to be won in each episode, which is split evenly between the contestants on the winning team. As the rounds progress and contestants are eliminated, the teams get smaller and each contestant’s earning potential increases. In the eighth and final round, one contestant takes away the full R100 000, which is added to their accumulated winnings from the previous rounds – a potentially life-changing sum that could put them well on their way to scaling their business.
A gripping experience for viewers
The Making Of combines high-stakes competition with real-world execution and insights, giving viewers an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at the entrepreneurial journey. The audience will see firsthand the level of thought, adaptability and resilience needed to turn an idea into something viable while learning valuable lessons in creativity and innovation, led primarily by judge, brand builder and strategist Heidi Brauer. And, of course, it’s not just the contestants who can win big on The Making Of, Engen has generously sponsored a R5 000 viewer prize in each episode!
Episodes air on Mondays and Thursdays at 19:00 on Facebook, YouTube and the TMO website.