The Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) proudly hosted a series of certificate ceremonies from 24 to 26 June 2025, honouring beneficiaries of its Entrepreneurial Seed Fund and Small-Scale Farmer/Agro-Processing Programmes. These events, held across the district, celebrated the achievements of local entrepreneurs and farmers who have participated in the programmes over the past three financial years.
The Entrepreneurial Seed Fund and Small-Scale Farmer Support/Agro-Processing Programmes are key initiatives by CWDM to empower Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), emerging small-scale farmers, cooperatives, and agro-small businesses. These programmes provide essential grant funding to help recipients establish and grow their ventures. In collaboration with local municipalities and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, beneficiaries are identified and supported annually.
A cornerstone of this support is the CWDM Mentorship Development Programme, facilitated by NLT Investments. This initiative offers comprehensive training in business planning, marketing, and financial management, equipping participants with the skills needed for sustainable success.
The impact of these programmes has been felt across all five local municipalities:
Breede Valley: 18 businesses supported
Drakenstein: 14 businesses and 2 women-owned agricultural businesses supported
Langeberg: 14 businesses and 4 agricultural businesses supported
Stellenbosch: 10 businesses and 5 farmers supported
Witzenberg: 12 businesses, 2 farmers, and 1 agro-processing beneficiary supported
The supported SMMEs span a wide range of sectors, including food vending, hair salons, construction, laundry services, tyre services, printing and administration, and dressmaking. On the agricultural side, beneficiaries include cattle, pig, and vegetable farmers, as well as vineyard preparation and wine bottling enterprises.
Furthermore, one of our beneficiaries from Breede Valley Municipality, was selected by the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and the Chinese Culture & International Education Exchange Centre (CCIEEC) to participate in a six-month International Support Programme in China. This initiative offers registered and trading SMMEs a unique opportunity to gain global exposure and experience.
CWDM remains committed to fostering entrepreneurship and agricultural development in the region. Beneficiaries of the seed fund and agro-processing programmes are eligible to reapply for funding after a three-year period, subject to a thorough evaluation process.
“These programmes are more than just financial support—they are about building sustainable futures and resilient communities,” said Cllr Koos Steyn (Portfolio Holder: Economic Development). “We are proud of our beneficiaries and look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.”
