The Department of Small Business Development in partnership with the local chamber of commerce, Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commerce and Industries (Galxcoc) offered a much-needed growth injection to local small business owners.
The two entities recently handed over business equipment to more than 50 small business owners so they could grow their businesses.
Among the recipients were two young entrepreneurs from River Park, Itumeleng Mahlare (28) who runs a fashion design business and Thembi Nkosi also 28, who runs a catering business.
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“I can’t describe the joy I have within me after receiving working equipment from the Department of Small Business Development and Galxcoc,” said Mahlare. “I’ve been struggling to raise capital to buy good sewing machines. I started my fashion design and clothing business three years ago and things have been tough for me. This machine will help me to meet deadlines and produce more in a short period of time.”
Patrick Baloyi of Galxcoc youth desk said one of the roles of the chamber was to promote the private enterprise system and market-oriented approach with equal opportunities to all its members and help them grow their businesses.
“Today we (Galxcoc) and the Department of Small Business Development are handing over business equipment to the local small business owners,” he added. “We give priority to Galxcoc members because those are the legitimate business operators we know about. We want to see those selling on the streets growing and opening shops.”