Tourism businesses get a boost

KZN tourism establishments have another opportunity to access financial assistance through the R20-million Tourism Relief Fund.

This news will be welcomed by local tourism establishments which have been heavily impacted, recording an average drop of 60% in occupancy earlier this year as a result of the pandemic.

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Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts were among the hardest hit by a poor visitor turnout.

This forms the second phase of the fund application process, with distressed businesses given until 29 October to submit applications.

Open to tour operators, accommodation establishments, restaurants, tourist guides, attractions and other tourism-related establishments, the funding aims to help mitigate the effects of the pandemic and prevent job losses.

The first phase of the fund saw a total of R858 500 disbursed to 29 qualifying businesses from 403 applications. Applicants were disqualified for providing incorrect or incomplete information, non-compliance with tax regulations, and no business registration documents.

‘With this phase we are hoping to support a further 370 businesses, and have extended the scope of eligible businesses to reach as many businesses as possible,’ said KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Edtea) Ravi Pillay.

Edtea and Tourism KZN will work closely with Community Tourism Organisations (CTOs) and tourism formations to support qualifying tourism businesses.

How to apply for the relief funding

Application forms are accessible online from the official TKZN website: www.zulu.org.za A call centre provides information to applicants.

The completed online application forms and supporting documents must be uploaded and submitted online.

For more information, email kzntourismrelief@zulu.org.za or call 031 8166610.