Funda centre to launch enterprise development laboratory

Lighthouse Economic Development, Funda Community Training Centre and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be unveiling an enterprise development laboratory early next year.

Thabo Nkhasi from Funda Centre said that they are currently in the process of arranging for the private sector to become part of the programme.

“We have noted with great concern the difficulties that SMME’s are facing to survive or pull through to the next level and gain access to business opportunities presented to them buy government department. Last year the executive mayor announced that the city would be spending over R100 billion on infrastructures over a period of ten years.

“In undertaking of the R30 billion budgeted for on new replacement and maintenance of infrastructure, which will be spent over the next three years. We have noted that 87% of SMME’s are unable to access such opportunities due to various challenges, such non-compliance and unable to present their businesses but most of all lack of information,” he said.

Nkhasi said that the enterprise development laboratory focuses on new venture creation, local economic development and community beneficial programmes.