PRESS RELEASE – SCTIE Champions Investment Models that Drive SMME Growth and Skills Development
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release 26 January 2026 SCTIE Champions Investment Models that Drive SMME Growth and Skills Development South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is strengthening its commitment to inclusive economic growth by promoting investment models that deliberately integrate SMME development and skills transfer into strategic projects across the region. As investment activity expands in key sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, retail, and mixed use developments, SCTIE is advocating for approaches that go beyond capital injection to deliver long term developmental impact. By embedding local procurement, workplace-based training, subcontracting opportunities and contractor development into project frameworks, these investments are creating meaningful pathways for local SMMEs and job seekers to participate in value chains. This integrated approach enables emerging enterprises to access opportunities during construction, operational and supply phases, while ensuring that skills development is practical, relevant and aligned with real market needs. In doing so, projects not only enhance their own sustainability but also contribute to labour market readiness and the strengthening of local enterprise ecosystems. CEO of SCTIE Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya said: “Attracting investment is only one part of our mandate. What truly matters is how that investment translates into opportunities for local businesses and communities. By deliberately linking investment projects to SMME development and skills transfer, we are creating inclusive growth that builds capacity, improves employability, and strengthens our local economy for the long term.” SCTIE continues to work closely with investors, developers, municipalities, and communities to ensure that economic development initiatives are structured with shared value in mind. Through collaboration and intentional planning, the organisation aims to position the KZN South Coast as a destination where investment delivers both commercial success and sustainable socio-economic impact. Unlock More Growth on the KZN South Coast! Find out more about these and other investment options by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. To find out more about investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email oss@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To purchase goods sold or secure services from these and other Buy Local businesses visit the online directory on the SCTIE website. To make orders from Buy Local members or to join the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Follow the hashtags #unlockmore #unlockmoregrowth /ENDS Please note the image credit is included beneath the corresponding image. All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct photographer credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images : https://we.tl/t-M1blpjqHiD (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) Siyavuna Abalimi Development Centre (Ramsgate). Siyavuna Abalimi Development Centre (Ramsgate). Siyavuna Abalimi Development Centre (Ramsgate). About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Pitch Email: The KZN South Coast is poised for major investment with the launch of the national Small Harbours Development Programme, which includes Port Shepstone among its locations. According to South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), this catalytic project is anticipated to unlock the maritime and logistics sectors while driving growth across tourism, trade, and property development on the KZN South Coast. For more information please contact: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Cell: 039 682 7944 Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za