The Cape Navigator

HERMANUS – The Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA), in conjunction with the Overstrand Municipality’s Local Economic Development (LED), has announced the availability of funding for spaza shops, general dealers, and grocery stores through its newly launched Spaza-shop Support Programme.

SEFA, as an implementing agency of the Department of Small Business Development, aims to provide financial products and services to small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs). Recognizing the vital role played by spaza shops, general dealers, and grocery stores in the South African landscape, SEFA is now extending its support to qualifying owners through this specialized program.

To be eligible for the Spaza-shop Support Programme, owners must be South African citizens operating their shops in a township or rural area. Additionally, they need to hold a valid trading permit, including a temporary one or business license (in the case of general dealers).

In preparation for the upcoming information sessions, interested spaza-shop owners are encouraged to collect application forms for financial assistance from the LED offices in Gansbaai, Stanford, Hermanus, or Kleinmond. For inquiries, owners can contact the LED offices in Hermanus at 028 313 5020 / 5010.

The information sessions are scheduled to take place at various venues on the following days:

• Gansbaai: 22nd February 2024 at 10:00 at the Tourism Centre
• Stanford: 23rd February 2024 at 10:00 at the Community Hall
• Hermanus: 27th February 2024 at 09:00 at the Multipurpose Centre in the New Harbour
• Kleinmond: 28th February 2024 at 10:00 at Proteadorp Community Hall

This initiative is a concerted effort to empower local entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth in township and rural areas. SEFA aims to provide the necessary financial support to spur the growth of spaza shops, general dealers, and grocery stores, contributing to the overall development of these communities.

For more detailed information on the Spaza-shop Support Programme, interested individuals can visit SEFA’s official website. The Overstrand Municipality is also actively supporting and promoting this initiative to ensure the success of local businesses.