Small businesses and cooperatives in the Amathole District Municipality have received a major boost through government-funded programmes aimed at strengthening local enterprises, supporting infrastructure development and creating jobs.
Small business development minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams recently handed over assets and business support to beneficiaries in the district as part of efforts to expand access to economic opportunities and help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses.
Through the cooperative development support programme, R2.996m was invested to help strengthen cooperatives, while R3.977m was allocated through the business infrastructure support programme for business infrastructure.
A further R4.895m was provided through the Asset Assist Programme , supporting beneficiaries with assets intended to improve their businesses.
The department also recognised 147 beneficiaries under the informal and micro enterprises development programme, highlighting its continued focus on supporting informal and micro enterprises and enabling entrepreneurs to grow and create employment opportunities.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to stimulate local economic development and ensure that small businesses have access to the resources and support they need to become sustainable.
