Entrepreneurship & Enterprise Development Support
Small enterprises play a pivotal role in South Africa’s economy through employment creation, income generation, and driving local output growth. At both national and provincial levels, the small enterprise economy has been recognized as a key driver of inclusive development and job creation.
Within Harry Gwala District, surveys reflect that most registered entities are cooperatives, followed by private companies (Pty Ltd.) and close corporations. This demonstrates that most enterprises are structured as legal entities, showing a growing trend of formalization in business operations. The district’s small enterprises are active across several industries, with strong representation in the following sectors:
- Agriculture
- Hospitality and Catering
- Manufacturing and Construction
- Health and Beauty
- Services, including creative and professional fields
Enterprise Development Fund
The Harry Gwala Development Agency (HGDA) launched the Enterprise Development Fund (EDF) in 2022 to provide funding support to small businesses across various economic sectors. It provides support to projects focused on investing in economic upliftment, with special emphasis/attention on creating or retaining jobs to achieve sustainable economic growth. The fund was successfully disbursed to various businesses over the past two (2) consecutive years with twenty-five (21) enterprises benefited from across the district and with 90 new job opportunities created (permanent and seasonal)
THE HGDA SPECIAL PROGRAMMES:
The Harry Gwala Development Agency (HGDA) has introduced Special Programmes to promote inclusivity and empower underrepresented groups within the district’s business ecosystem. These initiatives recognize the critical role of the historically disadvantaged (youth, women, people with disability) and other emerging entrepreneurs in driving socio-economic transformation.
Recognizing their vital role, the Harry Gwala District Municipality, through the Harry Gwala Development Agency (HGDA), has prioritized the development of small enterprises as a means of overcoming the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality. This commitment has been translated into impactful programmes that support and grow emerging enterprises.
Youth in Business:
In celebration of Youth Month, in line with the adopted theme. The Agency recognizes the vital role that young people play in business and community development. Each year, the Agency invites youth-owned enterprises across different economic sectors to pitch their business ideas to a panel of experts for funding consideration. This initiative gives the youth an opportunity to not only showcase their innovation, but to access the resources needed to grow and sustain their businesses.
In 24/25 financial year, four youth-owned businesses walked away with different prizes which were used to acquire business equipment responsive to business needs. The equipment was officially handed over to the beneficiaries on 26 June 2025 during the Youth Month celebration event. The support to young entrepreneurs does not only recognize innovation but resilience, and the role they play in the business sector as future leaders.
In 24/25 financial year, four youth-owned businesses walked away with different prizes which were used to acquire business equipment responsive to business needs. The equipment was officially handed over to the beneficiaries on 26 June 2025 during the Youth Month celebration event. The support to young entrepreneurs does not only recognize innovation but resilience, and the role they play in the business sector as future leaders.
Women in Business:
The Agency in recognition of the extraordinary role women play in the economy and society, launched this programme dedicated to support women owned businesses. Under different themes, women entrepreneurs would pitch their business models and ambitions to a panel of experts for funding consideration. This initiative is aimed at supporting women-led businesses while encouraging equity, diversity and inclusion in economic development. In the financial year 24/25, four (4) women-owned enterprises won different prizes for the support of their businesses. Their prizes were handed over during a Women Celebration programme held at Sani Pass Premier Resorts on 21 August 2025.
People with Disabilities Fund:
True inclusive growth means breaking barriers. The People with Disabilities Fund is dedicated to ensuring that entrepreneurs living with disabilities are not left behind. By providing financial support, training, and mentorship, this programme helps them to establish viable, competitive, and sustainable businesses. This initiative reflects HGDA’s commitment to building an economy where every individual, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to succeed.
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