Table of Content

• DTIC Incentive Workshop Strengthens SMME Access to National Support
• Product Development Training Builds Practical Machinery Skills
• Trade Shows – November Highlights
• Calendar & Upcoming Events
• Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
• Social Media

Table of Content

• SEDFA Webinar Empowers Brands Through Visual Storytelling
• Micro Export Program Empowers 10 South African Businesses for Global Growth
• Stepping into the Future: 3D Footwear Design Training Empowers Local Brands
• Collaborating for Market Insight: SAFLEC, SACTWU, and the German Chamber Explore Entry into Germany
• Trade Shows – October Highlights
• Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
• Calendar & Upcoming Events
• Social Media

DTIC Incentive Workshop Strengthens SMME Access to National Support — Shared by SAFLEC/EFLC for Member Growth

In today’s competitive environment, access to funding can determine whether small enterprises thrive or stall. On 18 November 2025, SAFLEC partnered with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) to host a targeted virtual workshop for supported SMMEs. This initiative reinforced our commitment to building capacity and ensuring members are equipped to leverage national incentive programmes.

The session provided a clear overview of the Business Incentives Support (BIS) framework, unpacking the funding instruments available to small and emerging enterprises. Practical guidance was shared on navigating applications, avoiding common pitfalls, and meeting compliance requirements. Importantly, DTIC emphasized their willingness to provide ongoing one-on-one mentorship, strengthening collaboration and extending support beyond the workshop.

What Members Learned:

• Understanding the BIS incentive framework and its relevance to SMMEs
• Best practices for successful applications
• Key compliance requirements to secure approval
• How to avoid common mistakes in submissions
• Opportunities for personalized mentorship and follow-up support

By connecting members directly with DTIC experts, SAFLEC ensured that entrepreneurs gained actionable insights to access funding avenues. This workshop highlighted the power of collaboration in opening doors for growth and sustainability.

Product Development Training Builds Practical Machinery Skills — Shared by SAFLEC for Member Growth

Technical capability is the backbone of manufacturing excellence. Between 24–28 November 2025, EFLC delivered a five-day introductory programme focused on product development and machinery skills for SMMEs. This hands-on training was designed to close critical skills gaps and empower entrepreneurs with practical competencies for small-scale manufacturing.

Participants were guided through the fundamentals of operating machinery, reading patterns, and preparing materials. Under expert supervision, each delegate successfully produced product, gaining confidence in both design and execution. The programme concluded with learners receiving SETA-approved certificates, validating their new skills and enhancing

This initiative demonstrated how targeted training can rapidly build technical proficiency, giving entrepreneurs tangible prototypes and the confidence to expand their product offerings. SAFLEC remains committed to ensuring members have access to programmes that transform potential into performance.

Trade Shows – November Highlights

SAFLEC Promotes Local Brands at CIIE – China | 05–10 November 2025

SAFLEC proudly participated in the China International Import Expo (CIIE), using the dtic stand to promote eThekwini member companies to international buyers and partners. The promotion strengthened South Africa’s reputation for quality and innovation, laying the groundwork for future trade opportunities for luxury brands. This initiative reflects how support continues to empower local businesses through visibility, design, and product development.  The event was part of dtic’s strategy to strengthen trade in Asia.

SAFLEC and EFLC Members Shine at IATF Dubai | 17–19 November 2025

Our first-ever exhibition at IATF Dubai gave members unparalleled international exposure. Locally crafted footwear, leather goods, and handbags drew strong interest, with Azula Collective’s African-inspired sandals receiving exceptional attention. The event generated high-quality leads already moving toward confirmed orders, proving the global competitiveness of South African craftsmanship and opening new export opportunities.  It was sad that due to budget issues the dtic was unable to fund the usual pavilion and SAFLEC was forced to seek funding else where with only one 9 sqm stand to ensure that South Africa had continue presence at the trade event.  The same was experienced with Australia where our SA Embassy in Australia generously manned our one stand to keep our presence.  Losing one years of presence at the events, leads to buyers forgetting the made in SA Brand and we have worked too hard for many years to position our sector through these platforms so that international buyers can build confidence in buying from us amidst the geo-political issues that are threatening our creditability.  We will fight on, harder than before no matter the obstacles.

EFLC Success at G20 Exhibition – Johannesburg | 18–20 November 2025

Even though the Export Councils were not consulted and included in the G20 events a clear sign of lack of co-ordination by the organisers to ensure that all our sectors put their best foot forward through their export councils, we thank SEDFA for supporting at least two of our members and giving our industry some presence at the exhibition part of the event. At the G20 Exhibition in Johannesburg, SAFLEC and EFLC member Yoyisa Nt and Marcus Mkhasibe represented the sector with excellence, securing promising orders and building a strong pipeline of leads. Her success highlighted the growing demand for locally crafted goods and the importance of continued participation in high-profile exhibitions. Yoyisa’s enthusiasm for future events reflects the confidence and growth potential these platforms create for SMMEs.

Calendar & Upcoming Events

Workshops & Training

• APLF Hongkong 12-14 March 2026

• EFLC Networking dinner and Panel discussion 19 February 2026

• Sustainability Competition (End Feb)

• 1 week sewing course (March 2026)

Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out

Not a SAFLEC member yet? The industry isn’t waiting—and neither should you. Get access to funding, exclusive trade missions, premium training, and more. Email prenisha@saflec.co.za to unlock the benefits.

Stay Connected Let’s keep flying the flag for South African craftsmanship together—follow us and be part of the story:

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