Strategic workshop empowers EMLM and EPMLM SMMEs
GROBLERSDAL
In a strategic move to strengthen small business support, Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM) has embarked on a benchmarking and peer-learning journey with its neighboring municipality, Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality (EPMLM), to refine and enhance its Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMME) funding programme.
During a presentation at a joint municipal workshop, Edgar Sebei, Local Economic Development (LED) Manager in EMLM, detailed how his municipality is leveraging the successes and lessons learned from Ephraim Mogale’s LED Fund.
The fund, which has been operational in Ephraim Mogale, provides grants ranging from R5,000-00 to R50,000-00 to help SMMEs acquire essential implements, equipment and other business enablers.
Sebei emphasized that through this benchmarking exercise, Elias Motsoaledi has gained valuable insight into avoiding common pitfalls while adopting best practices that will streamline the implementation of its own SMME funding programme.
The municipality aims to roll out its funding initiative at the beginning of the 2025/2026 fiscal year, set to be launched on 1 July 2025.
“Our goal is to ensure that our local small businesses operate profitably, improve their production output, and meet higher quality standards,” said Sebei.
He acknowledged the mounting pressure from foreign nationals who have dominated the retail and wholesale sectors, often sidelining local businesses.
“We hope our SMMEs will reclaim their space in retail, manufacturing and the informal business sector. Formalizing small enterprises, as we have started with street traders in Groblersdal and the market near Sekhukhune TVET Skills Centre, remains a priority,” he added.
Sebei emphasized that through this benchmarking exercise, Elias Motsoaledi has gained valuable insight into avoiding common pitfalls while adopting best practices that will streamline the implementation of its own SMME funding programme.
According to Sebei, the success of the LED Fund in Ephraim Mogale has been attributed to effective policy frameworks, rigorous beneficiary vetting, and continuous support mechanisms that ensure sustainability.
“Elias Motsoaledi now seeks to replicate this model while tailoring it to the specific needs of its local economy,” he said.
With the groundwork laid, Sebei is optimistic that Elias Motsoaledi’s new funding programme will foster an enabling environment for SMMEs, equipping them to compete in a rapidly evolving market landscape.
He said the municipality’s commitment to SMME development signals a promising future for local entrepreneurs aiming to scale their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the regional economy.
