Small Business

There are a multitude of cyber security controls that businesses can implement and leverage to protect against cyber threats, but we’ve selected five of the best that are ideal specifically for SMEs.

The end of year exams has concluded for students at South Africa's largest university. Here's what students can do if they are unsatisfied with their Unisa exam results. 

On Tuesday, 21st May, over 40 small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the clothing, textile, footwear, and leather (CTFL) sector gathered for the KwaZulu-Natal Clothing & Textile Cluster Origin8 workshop. This free workshop was facilitated through the KZNCTC -  a public-private partnership between eThekwini Municipality and clothing, textile, and retail firms in KZN - offering ambitious SMEs a rare opportunity to learn how to secure major customers and scale their operations.

With technological advancements rapidly changing the face of work and employees having to acquire essential new skills, the need for corporate training has never been greater.

In a world where female entrepreneurship is gaining momentum, Jacqueline van Rooijen, Business Growth Consultant and Director at Ycagel exemplifies resilience and innovation. Marking seven years in business, she shares the key principles that have contributed to her success, offering practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in South Africa.

The Futurepreneur Academy, launched in 2021, is an initiative between FUTURELIFE® and Afrika Tikkun Services (ATS) that is financially empowering young South Africans. It offers a learnership programme that equips budding entrepreneurs with the training, skills and expert guidance to build and accelerate their businesses, selling FUTURELIFE® nutritional products at affordable prices in local communities.

South Africa has one of the highest small business failure rates globally, with a significant number of startups closing their doors before they even get off the ground. "I think small businesses in South Africa struggle to survive because of a few key factors," says Kyle Ballard, Head of Accelerators at the eThekwini Furniture Cluster (EFC). 

Taking out a personal loan is a significant financial commitment that requires careful consideration. It's important to assess your financial situation and consider alternatives before you apply, advises Sarah Nicholson, operations manager of JustMoney.co.za, a platform that helps South Africans make good money choices.

99% of South African startups now rely on bootstrapping due to a funding crunch. Local entrepreneur and Luxity co-founder, Michael Zahariev offers practical bootstrapping strategies for local startups to navigate this challenging landscape.

The Durban Automotive Cluster (DAC), with support from eThekwini Municipality and industry leaders like Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) and Hesto Harnesses, has opened applications for its business accelerator program. This initiative is designed to drive localisation, empower Black industrialists, and foster commercial partnerships with high-potential SMEs, ultimately unlocking growth and fostering economic development.

In an era marked by global challenges to democracy, and increasing limits on the fundamental rights of citizens, human rights organisations play a vital role in defending values such as freedom and equality.

The eThekwini Furniture Cluster (EFC) is excited to announce the launch of its Customer Compass Programme, aimed at empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the local furniture sector. This initiative seeks to align its offering with what big customers are looking for, to drive innovation, foster inclusive growth, and facilitate transformative change within the industry.

Successful female agripreneur shares guiding principles for launching a sustainable farming enterprise. As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8th, her story serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of women and their ability to break barriers.

In the fast-paced world of business, leaders, especially women, often hesitate to say "no," fearing it may seem uncooperative. However, Jacqui van Rooijen, Sales Growth and Lead Generation Expert at Ycagel Consulting emphasises that saying "no" and setting boundaries is a vital skill for focused leadership.

In the fast-changing world of entrepreneurship, small businesses often hit roadblocks that slow down their growth and success. From tight budgets and limited expertise to encountering barriers in accessing lucrative market opportunities; the struggle for small business owners is real.

The Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC) Accelerator is now in its sixth year and is proud to announce the launch of its next Business Accelerator. Applications from high-potential, Black-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the local chemicals sector are all welcome and will be accepted until 30 September 2023.

Entrepreneurs make big ideas turn into reality. There are various types of entrepreneurs, and each type tends to make their own decisions depending on their personalities, skills, and environment. But, they all contribute to the economy and create jobs.

An online portal that instantly compares finance options for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will help address the number one challenge that SMEs in South Africa face – access to finances.

Ever wondered what sets successful entrepreneurial or business people apart from the average workforce? Why are some people proud to be dubbed “Business Man or Woman”?

Starting a business is a big decision and it isn not always smooth sailing. Leon Smalberger shares the truth about starting a business and looks at the good, the bad and the ugly.