SA National Parks and Seda to empower Small businesses
GARDEN ROUTE - The Garden Route is set to reap the benefits of a partnership between the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) and South African National Parks (SANParks) to bring forth a joint business development programme to create an enabling environment for business growth and sustainability.
This initiative is specifically designed to empower small commercial operators, concessionaires and biodiversity social projects (BSP) contractors within the Garden Route National Park. Supported by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the pilot project paves the way for sustainable opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
The programme will provide assistance to a wide array of businesses operating within the Garden Route National Park, including zipline activities, food vendors, car wash services, water-based commercial operators and restaurants. The programme aims to address the various needs and challenges faced by the diverse range of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) in the area.
Needs analysis
A comprehensive needs analysis will be conducted for all participating SMMEs to identify the specific requirements of each business. This will serve as a foundation for the implementation plan and enable the development of tailored strategies and support mechanisms. By understanding the unique challenges faced by these entrepreneurs, the programme will be able to provide targeted assistance and enhance the likelihood of their long-term success.
The plan will outline the specific interventions, resources and support structures that will be put in place to address the identified needs.
Significant step forward
The initiative is aligned with the District Development Model (DDM), which emphasises the importance of cooperation and coordination between different spheres of government and entities to achieve impactful outcomes.
The business development programme is a significant step toward creating sustainable opportunities for small businesses in the Garden Route National Park. By providing targeted support, resources, and guidance, the programme aims to enhance the competitiveness and resilience of these enterprises. The participation of local entrepreneurs in the programme will aid to the overall economic development of the communities within the park and the region.