• Automotive sector
• Agriculture and Agro Processing
• Forestry sector
• Plastic manufacturing

• Automotive – Localisation of component manufacturing to take advantage of MBSA R10 bn expansion plans. Introduce black entrants into supplier network and transformation of existing suppliers
• Develop agro-processing value chain including production expansion of long term crop (citrus and macadamia) and processing of short term (vegetables in Mthatha area) currently imported from other regions. Development of red meat value chain to take advantage of high livestock population numbers.
• Support Operation Phakisa – ship building and repairs, establish relationships with important stakeholders such as Transnet and ship builders. Development of aquaculture industry
• Develop new and expand existing forestry plantations and timber processing.
• Support SMMEs within the plastics manufacturing sector;
• Support Textiles industry (new and existing clients)

• Form strategic relationships with corporates identified in our area to enhance localization under the SME Connect Initiative
• Assist distressed manufacturers in the area to preserve loss of jobs
• Enhance collaborations with stakeholders such as NYDA, SEDA, EL IDZ, ECDC, DRDAR, ECRDA, BUSINESS PARTNERS and local business chambers in support of SMMEs

• For start-up applications, clearly demonstrate competitive advantage of the new venture
• For existing entities looking to expand, clearly illustrate and justify the need to expand
• Ensure that entity has sufficient management expertise and skills set to cover critical aspects of the business

• Automotive and Transport Equipment together with related supporting industries
• Agro-Processing and Agriculture
• Renewable Energy

Eastern Cape West has a diverse climate and landscape which ranges from deserts to lush forests of the Tsitsikamma with an exquisite coastline.

Automotive manufacturing is an important component of the economy with VWSA, Isuzu, FAW and Ford Engine plant already operating and the BAIC SA plant being built within the province. Two harbours allow inbound and outbound logistics which allows trade with the rest of the world, being developed further with investment planned by Transnet under Operation Phakisa initiative within the industrial node of Coega SEZ.

EC West has had significant investment in the wind renewable space and this assists for local production of renewable energy. Key agricultural sectors are deciduous fruits, pineapples, chicory, dairy, goats and sheep. The EC is the second largest producer of citrus fruit in South Africa. South Africa produces 50% of world’s mohair, most of which is from Eastern Cape. South Africa imports mohair and processes about 80% of world mohair.

• Automotive and Transport Equipment together with related supporting industries
• Agro-Processing and Agriculture
• Renewable Energy

• Draft a 2 page Business Plan that outlines Market (Who sell to, volume and price), outline Technical details on ability to manufacture such as equipment, working capital and human resources required with a final section on finance indicating the annual return expected from total assets deployed (Fixed and current assets). mention the amount of contribution that can be provided upfront.
• Have an uninvolved friend/third party (including SEDA) review the 2-page document so that they can understand the info that you are putting forward to the IDC.
• Do a brief pitch on yourself why you should be backed as an entrepreneur on this opportunity with skills and expertise to match opportunity.