Big boost for eMbelenhle entrepreneurs

eMBALENHLE – More than 32 local small business owners received business equipment from the Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP) on Thursday, 17 September.

The beneficiaries received tools and equipment such as microwaves, stoves, laptops, printers, 482l deep freezers, deep frying pans, sewing machines, chafing dishes and much more.

These are expected to improve and grow the beneficiaries’ businesses.

The handover of tools and equipment has been taking place throughout the country.

The IMEDP provides qualifying entrepreneurs with basic business management training followed by a 100 per cent grant for the acquisition of basic equipment and tools.

The programme is a Department of Small Business Development initiative.

Lesedi Science and Technology Non Profit Organisation and Cooperate Alliance of South Africa approached the department to assist locals in January.

Mr Thabo Mofokeng, Chairman of Lesedi Science and Technology Non Profit Organisation, said the department responded swiftly, however, the programme was disturbed by the national lockdown.

“I am happy that the department has intervened to help our people, this will go a long way.

“These tools will help take our business to a more professional level and we need the government to continue helping us.

“If are our businesses succeed we can create jobs and improve the lives of not just our families and our communities.”

According to the department, the basic qualifying criteria for this programme is that the entrepreneur must have been trading for at least three months, must be a South African and black-owned informal and micro enterprise, and must produce a certified South African identity document for both the owner and employees.

Entry into the programme requires the participants to undergo a rigorous adjudication process.

Tshepo said they were helped by the municipal LED to indentify the companies.