I have been advised that the department, through the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa), conducted a research study in August 2022 on the impact of loadshedding on its funded clients. This study was commissioned as a survey to 1 500 sefa clients, however only 214 clients responded, and the following are some of the findings identified:
The DSBD together with its agencies, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) and sefa, is considering the introduction of interventions to address these challenges. The DSBD and its agencies are looking at a three-pronged approach for supporting SMMEs and Co-operatives affected by loadshedding:
(i) The Power Purchase Product (PPP) is an immediate relief for formal and informal enterprises (alternative power sources). It is an initiative of the Small Business Development Portfolio (DSBD, Seda and sefa) to support SMMEs with alternative energy generating equipment (generators and Photovoltaic installations - PV). The programme will be implemented via the existing programme structures as follows:
(ii) Guarantee programme via the Bounce Back Scheme administered by Khula Credit Guarantee (KCG) on behalf of government. This is a medium to long term intervention that still require intense discussion relevant parties including the National treasury who are the custodian of the scheme.
(iii) Consultation with various stakeholders for a broader offering (key focus on promoting innovative ideas).
The Department is currently awaiting endorsement from National Treasury before all these schemes can be implemented.