GEORGE NEWS - The Progressive SMME Initiative (PSI) held a breakfast collaboration event at the King George Hotel, marking an important milestone in its journey as a formally registered not-for-profit company.

PSI chairperson Horatius Strydom addressed the attendees, highlighting the initiative's purpose and vision for supporting small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the region.

Established informally in earlier years, PSI formalised its operations in 2024.

The organisation aims to create commercial opportunities for its members, predominantly located in George and surrounding areas, by connecting them with procurement initiatives from both public and private enterprises.

Despite challenges such as limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, restrictive labour laws and escalating crime, PSI remains committed to supporting its members, many of who operate in rural areas and the informal sector.

The organisation is seeking Public Benefit Organisation (PBO) status considering the high number of activities of their members that qualify for this category of organisation.

This will further the PSI's community-driven efforts, which include welfare initiatives, education programmes, and environmental conservation projects. 

Attendees were encouraged to support local SMMEs through procurement practices, in line with the National Department of Small Business Development's recent call to action.

PSI envisions this event as the start of lasting partnerships to transform and uplift the SMME landscape in George and beyond.

The event sponsors were New Age Development, Eddie Stemmet Bouers, Ruwacon, Africa Skills, IIB, Old Mutual, Oubaai Hotel, ADT Fidelity Security Services, King George Hotel, Louis van Rensburg Properties, OK Express George, Kwikspar Kraaibosch and Jack's Bagels.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’