The aim of the awareness session was to capacitate SMMEs with information and cost-sharing grant initiatives from government and the private sector.
The City, through Department of Economic Development is mandated to influence, guide and direct economic development activities in the City. The intended outcome of the session was to improve the understanding of SMMEs of the various grant initiatives from the government and improve SMME competitiveness.
A number of SMMEs in the agro-processing, manufacturing, textile and catering industries were in attendance and the presenters shared information on various incentives, funding criteria to be adhered to, and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs and market linkage.
“The small, medium and micro enterprises are the major engine for economic growth and development as well as economic inclusion and shared growth. Grants are a productive tool to facilitate entry, growth and sustainability of small, medium and micro enterprises, yet it is concerning that few SMMEs are aware of grants that are available from all spheres of government.
“We hope that this session will enhance awareness among likely beneficiaries in the SMME sector,” said MMC Lawrence Khoza.
The Department of Economic Development is the command centre for economic growth in the City, engaging various role-players to create an enabling environment to accelerate economic growth in the City.
Image (MMC for economic dev and tourism in Joburg Lawrence Khoza).
