Dear Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development,
Subject: Request for Urgent Feedback and Escalation: Spaza Shop Funding Application Submitted in May 2026

Dear Sir/Madam,

I trust that you are well.

I am writing to express our concern regarding the Spaza Shop Funding application that was submitted in May 2026 Application number APP073086. To date, we have not received any formal progress update or written feedback on the status of the application.

Since submitting the application, we have consistently followed up on a monthly basis. During these engagements, we have repeatedly been informed that the application is with the EDC Compliance Team, where it has reportedly remained since June 2026. We are now in October 2026, and despite the passage of several months, there has been no indication of progress, outstanding requirements, expected timelines, or reasons for the delay.

Given the emphasis placed on supporting small businesses and township economies through this funding initiative, we respectfully request clarification on the following:

What is the prescribed turnaround time for compliance reviews and funding decisions?
What are the reasons for the prolonged delay in processing this application?
Are there any outstanding compliance requirements that require our attention?
What governance, service-level, and stakeholder communication protocols are in place to ensure applicants receive regular updates on their applications?

From a governance and customer service perspective, the absence of communication over such a lengthy period is concerning and does not reflect the principles of transparency, accountability, and service excellence that public development initiatives seek to uphold.

While we appreciate that compliance processes are important to ensure proper administration of public funds, effective stakeholder communication is equally critical. Applicants should not be required to repeatedly follow up over several months without receiving meaningful feedback or timelines.

We therefore request:

A written status update on the application.
The name and contact details of the official currently responsible for the matter.
An indication of the expected completion date for the compliance review and funding decision.
Escalation of this matter to the appropriate management level should further intervention be required.

Government funding programs play an important role in supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening local communities. It is therefore essential that applicants experience a level of service that reflects the objectives and values of these initiatives.

We would appreciate your urgent attention to this matter and look forward to receiving a comprehensive response.

Kind regards
Mayoz Tuckshop