Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme
Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme is a grant from Department of Small Business Development offering between R 500 and R 15 000 for startup businesses across South Africa. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Overview
A 100 percent grant (nothing to repay) of R500 up to R15,000 from the Department of Small Business Development for informal traders and micro businesses - spaza shops, street vendors and home businesses - to buy tools, machinery and equipment. There is no online application: forms are handed out at IMEDP workshop briefings run with municipalities, trader associations and SEDFA, so contact DSBD or your municipality to find the next workshop. Spaza shops may also qualify for the separate R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund (roughly R50,000 stock plus R50,000 infrastructure via SEDFA and the NEF).
Programme details last verified on 12 June 2026.
Full Description
Support programme for informal traders and micro enterprises to formalize and grow. Includes grants and business development support.
Eligibility Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme offer?
Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme offers between R 500 and R 15 000 per applicant.
Who qualifies for Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme?
Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme targets startup businesses across South Africa.
When is the deadline for Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
How do I apply for Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme?
Check your eligibility with the free readiness check on Okhantu, prepare the required documents, then apply on the provider's website.
Prepare Your Application
Increase your chances of success with these preparation resources.
Provider Guide
Learn about Department of Small Business Development's application process
Document Checklist
Requirements and deadlines
Download Templates
Business plan, cash flow, projections
Legal Framework
Relevant legislation and compliance
Compliance Check
Verify your CIPC, SARS, B-BBEE status
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