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The Ingquza Hill Local Municipality (IHLM) has announced the launch of its 2025/26 SMME and Cooperative Support Program, calling on small businesses and cooperatives within Lusikisiki, Flagstaff, and surrounding wards to apply before 20 November 2025. The initiative aims to boost local enterprise, promote job creation, and reduce poverty through targeted economic support.
What Happened
Through its Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP), IHLM has prioritized SMME and cooperative development as key drivers of inclusive growth. The program focuses on helping existing small businesses expand and become more sustainable.
Municipal studies show that unemployment in Ingquza Hill stands at 48.6%, well above the national average. Most economically active residents are involved in informal retail, subsistence farming, or small service-based enterprises. More than 70% of local businesses are informal and lack access to finance, infrastructure, or modern equipment.
The municipality will therefore provide in-kind support, such as equipment and tools of trade, to selected qualifying businesses. Sectors prioritized include agriculture, manufacturing, retail services, ICT, mining, tourism, and carpentry.
Official Response
Municipal Manager V.C. Makedama said the initiative forms part of the municipality’s broader Local Economic Development (LED) Strategy.
“Our goal is to empower local entrepreneurs who are already active and creating impact. This program ensures that women, youth, and persons with disabilities receive meaningful opportunities to grow,” Makedama said.
LED Manager Mr. D. Mjokovana added that no start-ups will be considered to ensure that funds are directed toward businesses with proven operations and potential for expansion.
Eligible applicants must submit business plans, proof of registration, and quotations for needed equipment not exceeding R150,000.
Community Impact
This program is expected to stimulate local employment, promote economic inclusivity, and support self-sustaining rural growth. By assisting small enterprises with proper tools and resources, IHLM aims to reduce reliance on social grants and increase community income levels.
Residents have welcomed the call, noting that access to financial and technical assistance remains one of the biggest hurdles facing rural entrepreneurs.
