Over the past two-and-a-half years, more than R50 million (US$3 million) has been disbursed to small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) supplying goods and services within the SANParks ecosystem through a finance programme supported by SANParks and Sanlam.
The programme provides interest-free, short-term working capital loans to help SMMEs fulfil purchase orders and deliver goods and services to SANParks.
According to SANParks, the funding addresses cash flow constraints that often limit SMMEs’ ability to execute contracts and participate in economic opportunities.
SANParks said the programme has enabled entrepreneurs to meet contractual obligations, access working capital, sustain and create jobs and participate more effectively in the tourism value chain.
The organisation said its focus remains on expanding access to finance and creating opportunities for more SMMEs in future.
