The Department of Small Business Development has confirmed the launch of DSBDConnect, a new digital platform aimed at combating illegal businesses while supporting spaza shops and other food-handling facilities.
This initiative follows months after Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams announced the launch of an R500 million spaza shop support fund to assist local small businesses in need of funding. The fund was part of the department's efforts to enhance food safety and combat foodborne illnesses.
DSBD Connect is a digital platform created to geo-map and assist spaza shops and food-handling facilities while tackling the growing issue of illegal businesses.
Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel
Confirming the launch of the digital platform the department said the initiative "aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment to fighting illegal business operations that jeopardise consumer safety and harm the local economy"
“This initiative aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment to fighting illegal business operations that jeopardize consumer safety and harm the local economy. Through DSBD Connect, the Department of Small Business Development is promoting sustainable business growth, regulatory compliance, and community empowerment,” the department said in a statement.
According to the department, the DSBD Connect will function as a comprehensive digital platform, offering:
• A verified database of spaza shops and food-handling facilities in the country
• Robust business and product authentication processes
• Facilitation of partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)
• Access to funding and credit opportunities for small enterprises
Small shop owners looking to know more about the platform find the link here: https://dsbdconnect.co.za/
IOL Business