SMME fund shows real commitment to the entrepreneurs of SA
In years to come the SMME sector is expected to play an even greater role in propelling the SA economy onto a higher growth trajectory
The launch of the SA SME Fund, a collaboration between government, labour and business, comes at an opportune time in the democratic era. Black business, especially black-owned small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs), still play largely outside the mainstream economy. They face many structural hurdles, such as the lack of access to funding, lack of access to markets and an uncompetitive regulatory framework. A more conducive environment for black-owned businesses and SMMEs to thrive must be created to amplify the role these businesses play in the economy of the country. The SA SME Fund aims to invest in SMMEs with turnovers of between R20m and R500m. While I applaud this initiative, we must be mindful of the many early-stage businesses that turn over between R500,000 and R10m a year, which have a large impact in terms of jobs created. Expanding the mandate of the fund to be more inclusive will be a commitment of the highest order given that for decades, entrepreneurs who run SMM...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.