The Seda Business Funding Program, implemented by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda), is designed to provide both financial and non-financial support to co-operatives across South Africa. The funding is 100% grant-based, meaning no repayment is required, making it an excellent opportunity for co-operatives to scale their operations.

What Does the Seda Business Funding Program Cover?

The Seda Business Funding Program offers support in the following areas:

1. Business Development Support (BDS): This includes mentorship, skills training, and development to ensure that co-operatives are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in the market.
2. Financial Support: The program provides grants for the purchase of business assets such as machinery, commercial vehicles, raw materials, tools, and infrastructure needed to improve production efficiency and market access.
3. Market Access: The program also assists co-operatives in accessing new markets to help improve their product quality and sustainability.

Funding Breakdown:

• Startup Cooperatives: Maximum grant of R1,500,000 per applicant.
• Expansion Cooperatives: Maximum grant of R2,500,000 per applicant.
• Secondary/Cluster Cooperatives: Maximum grant of R5,000,000 per applicant.

Note: Seda will not fund co-operatives with common directors across multiple co-operatives in each category.

Why Is Seda Funding Important for Co-operatives?

In South Africa, co-operatives are often seen as small-scale businesses, especially in the agricultural sector. However, they play a vital role in empowering marginalized communities by providing access to economic opportunities. The Seda Business Funding Program helps co-operatives address the following challenges:

• Lack of Participation in the Formal Economy: Many co-operatives struggle to enter the formal business world. This program helps bridge that gap by providing the necessary resources to operate effectively.
• Management and Operational Capacity: Co-operatives often lack professional management skills, which affects their growth. Seda helps develop managerial capabilities through training and support.
• Access to Financial Resources: Access to working capital and assets is a major hurdle for many co-operatives. The Seda funding addresses this gap by providing essential grants.
• Increased Participation in Incentive Programs: The program aims to integrate co-operatives into broader incentive programs to improve their viability and growth.

Types of Eligible Co-operatives

The Seda Business Funding Program caters to a variety of co-operatives, from those just starting up to larger, more established entities. There are three categories of co-operatives eligible for funding:

1. Category A: Primary Co-operatives (Startup)
   • Co-operatives that are starting or operating at a small scale (with a turnover of up to R250,000).
   • Eligible for a maximum grant of R1,500,000.
   • Must have a majority black membership.
   • Must be registered in terms of the Co-operatives Act, Act No. 14 of 2005.
2. Category B: Primary Co-operatives (Expansion)
   • Co-operatives that have been operating for at least 12 months and have a turnover of R250,000 or more.
   • Eligible for a maximum grant of R2,500,000.
   • Must have a majority black membership and be registered in terms of the Co-operatives Act.
3. Category C: Secondary/Cluster Co-operatives
   • Co-operatives with a turnover of more than R500,000, often involving multiple primary co-operatives.
   • Eligible for a maximum grant of R5,000,000.
   • Must be a secondary co-operative with a majority black membership.

How to Apply for Seda Business Funding

To apply for the Seda Business Funding Program, follow these steps:

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure that your co-operative meets the mandatory requirements for your category (i.e., primary or secondary co-operatives).
2. Application Form: Download the application form from the Seda website or visit the nearest Seda office. You can also email your completed forms to the relevant provincial Seda office (listed on the Seda website).
3. Required Documents:
   • Proof of registration with the CIPC (e.g., Constitution, CR-10).
   • Bank Statements for the last three months (for existing co-operatives).
   • Financial Statements for the past 12 months (for existing co-operatives).
   • Business Plan or funding proposal.
   • Proof of training in co-operative governance, business management, and development (if applicable).
   • SARS compliance documentation (Tax Clearance Certificate).
   • FICA documentation for the cooperative and members.
4. Site Visits and Interviews: Before submitting the application, Seda may conduct telephonic interviews and site visits to verify the viability of the business and ensure that the application is legitimate.
5. Adjudication Process: Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Adjudication Committee. If approved, you will receive the funding and ongoing support.

Priority for Co-operatives

Seda prioritizes co-operatives that are:

• Owned by women, youth, or persons with disabilities.
• Based in rural, township, or peri-urban areas.

These preferences are in line with South Africa’s broader efforts to promote inclusive economic growth and empowerment in marginalized communities.