MEC Mireille Wenger and the Success of the 2023 SMME Booster Fund

by
1 min read
smmes western cape government

Small businesses are struggling to survive, but the Western Cape’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism provides vital assistance to Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The latest iteration of the department’s SMME Booster Fund demonstrates the commitment of the Western Cape government to support the growth and development of SMMEs.

The Launch and Success of the 2023 SMME Booster Fund

Mireille Wenger, the Western Cape’s MEC of Finance and Economic Opportunities, recently announced the launch of the 2023 SMME Booster Fund, which has already shown great success since its inception in 2019. The fund has supported 860 SMMEs to date, sustaining 4,977 jobs and creating an additional 651 employment opportunities.

Primary Objective and Targeted Categories

The Booster Fund provides support to interventions, including projects and programs, that are implemented by organizations and municipalities to bolster SMMEs based in the Western Cape. The fund specifically targets the growth and development of SMMEs in the following categories:

  • Exporter development
  • Women-owned businesses
  • Youth-owned businesses
  • Township-based businesses

Co-funding Implementation Model

The fund operates on a co-funding implementation model. While the fund focuses on the technical support aspect of a project or program, organizations applying for funding are responsible for financing other aspects such as training, mentoring, coaching, and access to market interventions.

Challenges Faced by SMMEs

MEC Wenger believes that the Western Cape government plays a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for SMMEs to flourish despite the ongoing challenges they face. One of the most pressing issues is load shedding, which hampers the ability of all businesses, irrespective of size, to trade effectively.

Apply Now

Applications for the 2023 SMME Booster Fund close on 11 July 2023. Interested organizations can find all relevant information and documents on the Western Cape government’s website.

MEC Wenger strongly encourages qualifying organizations to apply for the SMME Booster Fund, to help sustain and grow businesses in the Western Cape, and consequently create more job opportunities in the region.

In conclusion, the 2023 iteration of the SMME Booster Fund is a significant milestone for the Western Cape’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism, as well as for the region’s small businesses. Through the fund’s efforts, SMMEs in the Western Cape can overcome the challenges they face and continue to form the backbone of the region’s economy.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

western cape dam levels
Previous Story

Heavy Rainfall Boosts Western Cape Dam Levels: DWS Monitors Situation

youth empowerment sustainable future
Next Story

Empowering Youth in Botshabelo: Opportunities for a Sustainable Future

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.