Applications for the Western Cape Goverment’s R9 million 2024 SMME Booster Fund is now open.
Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger said “after assisting more than 950 small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) across the Western Cape, sustaining 4 977 jobs and dedicating R85,5 million since 2019”, the department was ready once again to assist new business owners in reaching their potential.
“SMMEs are the lifeblood of our economy, fuelling up to 70% of jobs in South Africa,” she said. “Put simply, we know that when SMMEs succeed, we all succeed.
“That’s why the Western Cape Government (WCG) is passionately committed to supporting entrepreneurs and small enterprises to establish and grow, by creating a vibrant and inclusive business environment, making it easier than ever to thrive in the Western Cape.”
Premier Alan Winde added: “Starting a business can seem overwhelming. But through our SMME Booster Fund we can guide new business owners on their journey to success.
“The fund can help existing businesses expand and grow. With every business that accesses this fund we can all help enable even more jobs and unleash the full potential of the SMME sector and economy.
“Our work goes beyond just funding. Through our SMME Booster Fund we provide bespoke support that empowers businesses to break down barriers and achieve remarkable growth. We’re especially proud that, through our contributions, we can help women-, youth-, and township-owned enterprises as well as those exporting to international markets reach their full potential.”
The 2024 SMME Booster Fund will dedicate R9 million funding support to SMME business development through capacity building, coaching, mentorship, and the acquisition of technical support (machinery, equipment, software, digital tools and more) in the following categories:. Category 1: Developing SMMEs for the export market. Category 2: Business incubation and acceleration support. Category 3: Support to township-based businesses. Category 4: Infrastructure support for entrepreneurial centres
“The window is open for submissions and will close once all funds have been allocated, so I urge interested SMMEs to apply without delay.”
To apply, visit – https://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/smme-booster-fund-2024
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