16/10/2026
Tankwa Karoo National Park and SEDFA Empower Local Entrepreneurs Through Tendering, Costing and Pricing Training
SANParks, in partnership with the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA), recently hosted a five-day Tendering, Costing and Pricing training programme aimed at equipping local entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully respond to procurement opportunities within Tankwa Karoo National Park and Meerkat National Park.
The training sought to strengthen the capacity of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by enhancing their understanding of tender processes, costing principles and competitive pricing strategies. These skills will enable participants to pursue procurement opportunities not only within SANParks but also across government departments and other public entities.
Entrepreneurs from Carnarvon, Loeriesfontein and Calvinia participated in the programme, demonstrating SANParks' commitment to supporting economic growth and enterprise development in communities neighbouring the parks.
The training marks the second phase of a broader business development programme. During the first phase, participants completed Financial Management training and received certificates in recognition of their successful participation and achievement.
This initiative aligns with SANParks Vision 2040, which aims to transform conservation from a fortress-based model towards a more inclusive approach that integrates community development and economic participation. Through strategic partnerships such as this, SANParks continues to empower local communities, promote entrepreneurship and create sustainable opportunities within the conservation economy.
By investing in business skills development, SANParks and SEDFA are helping to build capable, compliant and sustainable enterprises that can compete effectively for procurement opportunities while contributing to economic growth and shared prosperity in communities surrounding national parks.