The KwaZulu-Natal Growth Fund Agency (KZNGFA), in partnership with the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC), has embarked on a province-wide series of roadshows to raise awareness about funding opportunities for businesses.
The programme kicked off on 11 September 2025 with a stakeholder breakfast in Ladysmith (Tugela), followed by Port Shepstone (Ugu) on 18 September 2025. Upcoming sessions will be held Graytown (uMzinyathi) on 13 November 2025 and 18 February 2026 for the final session.
The initiative gives entrepreneurs, SMMEs and stakeholders the chance to engage directly with experts from the KZNGFA, gaining insights into available funding products and guidance on how to successfully access financing.
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Xolani Nhlapo, Chief Investment Officer at KZNGFA, said through the campaign, the two organisations demonstrate their committed to ensuring more businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, are aware of the funding opportunities available to them. “These roadshows will not only guide applicants through the funding process but also encourage entrepreneurs to think bigger and explore how they can scale their businesses from SMME level to greater heights with the support of the KZNGFA,” said Nhlapo.
The KZNGFA, an entity of the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, was established to accelerate Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), create jobs and unlock growth across key sectors such as tourism, agro-processing, manufacturing and energy.
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Enock Dladla, Deputy Chairperson of NAFCOC KZN, welcomed the collaboration. “This partnership brings real value to our members and the wider business community. By taking these roadshows to the districts, we are bringing information, guidance and opportunity closer to entrepreneurs who might otherwise not have access. It is about creating inclusive economic growth and empowering businesses to thrive,” said Dlala.
Through these roadshows, the KZNGFA and NAFCOC aim to equip businesses with the knowledge and support needed to access finance and drive sustainable economic development across KwaZulu-Natal.
