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The Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) released its 2024/25 annual results on 18 November, confirming R80 million in loan funding to 76 small businesses across the province. The announcement was made on 18 November 2025. The support drove job creation, increased investment, and strengthened regional trade activity.
What Happened
ECDC reported an 86% loan repayment rate for the year and highlighted strong gains in enterprise support. Of the 76 funded businesses, 21 were women-owned and received R9,4 million, while 16 youth-owned enterprises collected R13,9 million. Altogether, these businesses created 309 jobs.
Acting CEO Lulama Mbobo-Vava said, “Our mission is simple: empower entrepreneurs, grow the economy, and open pathways for inclusive development.”
Moreover, the Corporation noted that R2,76 billion in investments were facilitated, along with R220,8 million in trade.
Official Response
Mbobo-Vava confirmed that 470 businesses across the province accessed loans and financial incentives during the 2024/25 year. These incentives came through three key programmes: the Jobs Protection and Stimulation Fund, the Imvaba Cooperatives Fund, and the Small Town, Township and Rural Entrepreneurship Support initiative.
She added, “Every rand we invest must stimulate real growth. These results show that our partners, entrepreneurs, and communities are rising to the challenge.”
Community Impact
The funding is expected to strengthen township and rural economies, expand trade opportunities, and stabilize small enterprises that form the backbone of local employment. The job creation impact—309 positions—marks a significant boost in a province battling unemployment.
Because more businesses gained access to capital and support, communities across the Eastern Cape stand to benefit from increased activity and improved economic confidence.
