Small businesses in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors that consume significant amounts of water and energy are encouraged to apply for funding to adopt resource-efficient technologies. The closing date for applications is 29 January 2025.
This initiative aims to support SMMEs in enhancing their operational efficiency, reducing costs, and improving their global competitiveness. The Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) has launched the Resource Efficiency Programme for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises to fund or co-fund the installation of energy-efficient, water-efficient, and renewable energy technologies. Implementation of this program will begin between February and March 2025.
The program is designed to help small businesses tackle challenges associated with high operational costs and limited access to advanced technologies. By providing funding for innovative solutions, GDED seeks to drive a greener and more sustainable economy. Small businesses that participate in the program stand to benefit from significant cost savings, improved sustainability practices, and a stronger competitive edge in their respective industries.
Benefits for Small Businesses
Participating in this program can help small businesses achieve:
- Lower operational costs: Boost profitability and sustainability by cutting down on utility expenses. By leveraging energy-efficient and water-efficient technologies, businesses can achieve long-term cost savings.
- Reduced environmental footprint: Align with global sustainability goals by decreasing energy consumption, water usage, and emissions. Adopting resource-efficient technologies demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and helps mitigate the effects of climate change.
- Increased global competitiveness: Stay competitive in international markets by adopting innovative and sustainable practices. Businesses that prioritize sustainability are more likely to appeal to environmentally conscious customers and partners.
- Compliance with green regulations: Meet environmental and regulatory standards while fostering innovation. Regulatory compliance not only ensures legal adherence but also positions businesses as forward-thinking and responsible entities.
- Economic growth and job creation: Contribute to skills development and create employment opportunities. As businesses grow and innovate, they can hire more workers and invest in employee training.
Key Requirements
To be eligible for this funding, businesses must:
- Be registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
- Possess a valid tax clearance certificate.
- Operate within the Gauteng Province.
- Submit a completed SBD4 Form.
Additional documentation includes:
- A detailed company profile outlining the business’s operations, goals, and sustainability practices.
- Proof of address to confirm the business’s location within Gauteng.
- A motivation letter explaining the need for funding and its anticipated impact on the business. This letter should detail how the funding will help the company reduce costs, improve efficiency, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
- Information on the ratio of revenue to utility expenses, which helps assess the financial feasibility of implementing resource-efficient technologies.
- Proof of financial sustainability, such as financial statements or revenue reports, to demonstrate the business’s ability to operate successfully.
For more information, click on this link.
How to Apply
Interested small businesses can submit their applications online via email at challenges@theinnovationhub.com. Ensure your proposal is clearly labeled:
“A call to invite Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to apply for a Resource Efficiency Programme aimed at supplying green technologies to SMMEs in the manufacturing/agricultural sector that are energy and/or water intensive.”
Applications should be comprehensive and well-documented to increase the likelihood of selection. Consider highlighting specific challenges your business faces and how the proposed technologies will address these issues. Providing detailed and measurable goals can further strengthen your application.
Important Notes
- Selected SMMEs will not receive direct funding. Instead, the project team will collaborate with them to select service providers for installing the recommended technologies. This ensures that funds are used effectively and that the selected technologies align with the program’s objectives.
- The Gauteng Department of Economic Development and its partners will oversee procurement processes and site assessments. This approach guarantees transparency and accountability throughout the implementation process.
Additional Support for Small Businesses
Beyond funding, participating businesses will benefit from guidance and support provided by the project team. This includes assistance with technology selection, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Such support ensures that businesses can maximize the value of the implemented solutions and achieve their sustainability goals.
Furthermore, the program fosters collaboration between SMMEs and industry experts, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing and innovation. By participating in the program, businesses can access a network of resources and expertise that can drive long-term success.
Contact Information
For further assistance or inquiries, contact:
- Oratile Mohlokoane
Phone: +27 (0) 12 844 0676
Email: challenges@theinnovationhub.com
Take advantage of this opportunity to secure funding for innovative, resource-efficient technologies and elevate your small business to the next level. Apply now before the deadline!
Further Information
One of our objectives is to empower small businesses and startups by curating funding opportunities that we come across. Refer to this page for other opportunities.
While formal company registration is not always a prerequisite for accessing funding, it is crucial for formalised entities to maintain compliance. Lack of proper governance will completely hinder any prospects of funding. For guides and articles on governance, please refer to this section of our site.
