How to apply for Spaza Shop Support Fund: Step-by-step guide

Spaza shop owners can apply to the Spaza Shop Support Fund for financial assistance of up to R100 000. Launched in 2025 by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), the programme is aimed at supporting eligible township and rural food-handling outlets to improve operations, boost competitiveness and create jobs.

Who the fund is for

The fund targets spaza shops and other food-handling outlets that operate in township or rural areas and serve the local community. Applicants must meet several eligibility conditions:

• South African citizenship or naturalisation as a South African citizen before 1994.
• The business must be registered with the local municipality in line with relevant by-laws and licensing requirements.
• Applicants must be registered with SARS or qualify for a six-month transitional period.
• Spaza shops must comply with relevant legislation, including food preparation, health and safety requirements.
• The owner must actively manage the business.

What funding covers and how it is structured

The fund offers qualifying businesses up to R100 000. Funding amounts above R50 000 are provided as a blend of 50% grant and 50% loan. The financial support may be used for shop upgrades, business training and stock purchases.

Additional requirement for larger awards

Applicants seeking funding above R80 000 must register with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) within six months of receiving funding.

Step-by-step application process

Step 1: Check eligibility

Before applying, visit the fund’s website and review the eligibility requirements to ensure your business qualifies for support.

Step 2: Gather required documents

Prepare the supporting documents before starting the online application. These include:

• A certified copy of a South African identity document.
• Business registration documents.
• Proof of business address.
• Proof that the spaza shop or food-handling outlet is operational.
• Bank account confirmation documents.
• A business permit issued by the municipality.

Step 3: Submit your application online

When you have all required documents, submit your application through the online portal at https://systemsnew.sefa.org.za/SMMEPortal/. Ensure information and supporting documents are uploaded correctly.

Step 4: Await assessment

Applications will be assessed according to the programme requirements. Applicants may be contacted if additional information is needed during the assessment process.

Priority groups

The fund gives priority consideration to:

• Young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35
• Women-owned businesses
• Businesses owned by people with disabilities

For more information, the source recommends visiting ww.spazashopfund.co.za.