In a powerful move to strengthen the local economy and support small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), Ithala Development Finance Corporation (IDFC) is hosting the “Masakhe Business Workshop: Empowering Local Entrepreneurs” on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, at the Durban Botanical Gardens. This free, full-day event is designed to equip entrepreneurs and small business owners with the tools, knowledge, and direct access to resources needed to scale their ventures and thrive in today’s competitive market.
Organized in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and the eThekwini Municipality, the workshop embodies the “Masakhe – Let’s Build” initiative, which champions collaborative economic development across the province. With attendance being completely free but seating strictly limited, early registration is essential for any entrepreneur serious about growth.
Unlock Funding and Support from Ithala at the Masakhe Workshop
At the heart of the workshop is direct access to Ithala’s comprehensive suite of financial and non-financial support services. Attendees will learn how to navigate Ithala’s funding products, including loans, grants, and equity investments tailored specifically for SMEs. The IDFC team will demystify eligibility criteria, application processes, and repayment structures, ensuring entrepreneurs leave with a clear roadmap to securing capital for expansion, equipment, or working capital.
Get On-Site Assistance for Business Plans and Purchase Orders
One of the most valuable features of the event is the opportunity for on-site assistance from the Ithala Business Finance Team. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to bring their existing business plans or purchase orders to receive real-time feedback, guidance, and preliminary assessments. This hands-on support helps bridge the gap between having an idea and accessing the funding needed to turn it into reality.
Navigate Compliance with SARS and SABS Service Desks
Compliance can be a major hurdle for growing businesses. To address this, the workshop will feature dedicated service desks from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS). Representatives will be on hand to answer questions on tax registration, B-BBEE compliance, product standards, and certification processes—ensuring that businesses are not only funded but also legally sound and market-ready.
Who Should Attend: Business Owners Ready for Growth
This workshop is ideal for business owners who have bankable business plans, contracts, or purchase orders and are actively seeking funding to drive their operations forward. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, the Masakhe Workshop offers practical, actionable insights and direct connections to institutions that can help you succeed.
Free Event with Limited Seats – Register Early to Secure Your Spot
Attendance is completely free, but space is limited. Entrepreneurs are urged to register early to guarantee their place. To secure your seat, contact Silindile Gumede via email at silindilegumede@ithala.co.za or call 031 907 8968. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to invest in your business’s future without spending a cent.
Related opportunity: Unlock Farming Growth at the AGRI 5 Expo in KwaZulu-Natal
Partnering for Success: Ithala, KZN Province & eThekwini Municipality
The collaboration between Ithala, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, and the eThekwini Municipality underscores a shared commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous local economy. By bringing together finance, compliance, and policy stakeholders under one roof, the Masakhe Workshop creates a holistic environment where entrepreneurs can build stronger, more sustainable businesses.
Join us on 5 November 2025 to unlock your potential, connect with key partners, and take the next step toward business success. Let’s build stronger businesses together — because when local entrepreneurs thrive, our entire community grows.
Register Now:
Email: silindilegumede@ithala.co.za | Phone: 031 907 8968
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