DTI embarks on roadshow to promote SMMEs

Anna Cox THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry has embarked on a project to promote small and medium businesses. Called the Business Express, the project involves a train travelling around the country to provide information and advice to an estimated 10 000 small and micro enterprises countrywide. It will visit numerous small towns along the way. The project intends to address the SMMEs’ apparent lack of information about the DTI and its varied support programme and advice service, said Alec Erwin, Minister of Trade and Industry. The Business Express will publicise the range of services offered by the DTI’s Council of Trade and Industry Institutions and offer to make these more accessible and visible. Data emerging from this interaction will be used to compile a comprehensive SMME data base which will contain profiles, their geographical sectoral focuses and information on business needs.