ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI CALLS ON SMALL BUSINESSES TO APPLY FOR DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT
Small business owners in eThekwini have an opportunity to access mentorship, funding, and other support to strengthen and grow their operations as applications are now open for the second Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme.
EThekwini Municipality calls on eligible businesses to apply before the 31 March 2026 closing date.
The programme is hosted in partnership between eThekwini Municipality and KZN Oils.
It targets businesses across various sectors including consultancy, stationery supply, marketing and production, catering and water supply, diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supply, oil distribution, spares retail, coding and app development, poultry farming, used‑oil collection, and electrical services.
Applicants must submit:
•Company registration documents
•A copy of the applicant’s ID
•A motivation letter (maximum five pages) outlining:
• the type of business
• reasons for applying
• expected outcomes
• three‑year projections with justifications.
Applications should be emailed to: *marketing@rrgroup.africa*
This programme forms part of the Municipality’s broader enterprise and supplier development initiatives.
It aims to strengthen small, medium and micro‑sized enterprises (SMMEs), improve compliance, and unlock growth opportunities through structured support and enhanced market access.
The second cohort follows the successful rollout of the first intake of the City’s Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme.
Last year, 20 SMMEs completed an intensive eight‑month training programme.
Of those, 14 emerged as top performers with competitive and economically viable businesses.
They received trophies, certificates, and financial prizes at a graduation ceremony in December.
The top five performers received financial awards ranging from R10 000 to R30 000 to support the growth of their operations.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli encouraged SMMEs to take advantage of the opportunity.
“Last year’s beneficiaries reported measurable growth, including increased monthly revenue and expanded market access. The programme continues to demonstrate the impact of public‑private collaboration in strengthening local supply chains, driving job creation, and accelerating small business development.”
For enquiries on the programme, call 031 570 0500.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
