Tourism department calls on SMMEs to apply for ‘Market Access’ programme amid global uncertainty

Amid global shifts affecting Small, Medium, Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), the Department of Tourism has urged small businesses to apply for Market Access Support Programme (MASP).

During a stakeholder engagement in Free State on Friday, 11 April 2025, Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu said it is the department’s role to overcome these barriers and empower these enterprises.

“We have a variety of programmes with the specific aim of promoting tourism, alleviating poverty and creating jobs,” she said.

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Requirements for programmes

The programme guidelines document sets out the following requirements and processes applicable to applications and claims.

Entities that may qualify for support under the MASP include:

• Small inbound tourism enterprises that meet the definition of an Exempted Micro-Enterprise (EME) or
• Qualifying Small Enterprises under the Amended Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) sector codes.
• Commission Agents of Small inbound tourism enterprises under a Joint Marketing Agreement representing at least five tourism Exempted Micro-Enterprises (EMEs) and or Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSE).
• Representative groups of small inbound tourism enterprises under a Joint Marketing Agreement represent at least five Tourism EMEs and/or QSEs.
• Non-governmental Industry associations recognised by, and affiliated to, the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and by municipalities.

According to the ministry, the programme offers financial support to small tourism enterprises to exhibit at tourism platforms.

“I want to urge you to visit the Department of Tourism website and look at this Market Access Support Incentive Programme,” Sotyu added.

Application forms can be found on the department’s website.

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Small business challenges

Sotyu highlighted that despite SMMEs potential, many of them face challenges that threaten their survival and growth.

Such threats include:

• Limited access to funding and financial support,
• Skills gap in business management and digital transformation,
• Market access
• Lack of exposure to international tourists

“Not to mention the impact external shocks, such as Covid-19 and global shifts have on these enterprises,” she said.

She added that the government’s role is to build long-term economic opportunities, ensure inclusive growth, and position black-owned businesses at the forefront.

“Embracing sustainable tourism by black-owned enterprises is not just about being part of a global trend, but is a necessity for resilience, competitiveness and profitability.

“For youth in tourism, the department offers, annually, a bursary programme and learnership programmes, focusing on professional cooking, wine appreciation and hospitality, targeting youth with a specific interest in tourism,” said the Deputy Minister.

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