Women from across the province came together for the official launch of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund in eMalahleni.

The event, led by Minister Stella Tembisa Ndabeni from the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), marked a major step forward in supporting women-owned businesses in South Africa.

The event was held on August 28 at the ANEW Hotel.

During her 2025 Budget Vote speech, the minister had committed to unveil the Women Entrepreneurship Fund, which aims to enable more women to be self-employed as entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Ndabeni spoke with passion about the challenges women face in the economy, especially women living in townships and rural areas. She explained that women are often left out of business networks and struggle to access funding, even though they are reliable and committed entrepreneurs.

“Women will no longer be left behind or treated as second class citizens in our economy. We will ensure that the Public Procurement Act prioritises women suppliers and will continue to engage with large corporates to prioritise women in their ESD spend,” said Ndabeni.

According to Ndabeni, the Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund starts with R300m and will grow to R710m over the next three years. It will offer more than just financial help; it includes business training, mentorship, and access to markets.

Women who apply and are selected will go through a full development process, from learning business skills to receiving funding and ongoing support.

SEDFA-funded woman, Dimakatso Kanyanene, winner of the Start Up.

Business of the Year at the National Presidential MSMEs and Cooperatives Awards 2024, shared her success story, showing just how much potential exists when women are given the chance to grow.

“We are working toward a future where no woman or girl will be left behind. Every woman deserves to be empowered,” said Dimakatso.

Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, praised the initiative and encouraged women to take full advantage of the opportunities it offers.

“We want to support our entrepreneurs as they are also supporting us through creating jobs and not only for themselves and their children,” said Ndlovu.

Ndabeni also announced plans to improve public procurement policies so that more government contracts go to women-owned businesses. She further committed working with other departments and private companies to ensure women receive fair support and recognition.

“Through this fund, we will support the establishment and growth of sustainable businesses owned by women, ensuring their financial independence and long-term success.

We will further support these women entrepreneurs with market access through annual women-focused trade missions, networking sessions, seminars, and international partnerships.

We will focus on sector specific support that women require – whether it be in manufacturing, construction, mining, ICT, the green economy, construction, retail, tourism or other services,” said Ndabeni.

The fund will open for applications in the third quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year. Selected applicants will go through a structured journey – from pre-investment training to post-investment coaching – ensuring long-term success.

Stella also announced plans to push for 50% of development funding to go to women, and to prioritize women suppliers in public procurement.

Women are ready to lead, and the government is ready to back them.

The launch was attended by a large number of women entrepreneurs, community leaders, and government officials. Among the key guests were Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu, MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi, and SEDFA Chairperson Nonzuzo Makanda.

Their presence showed strong support for the initiative and the importance of empowering women in business.

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