How to Start Your SME Successfully in South Africa

Updated on 15 August 2024 • Reading Time: 3 minutes

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Whether you are just starting or looking to improve your current business, we will provide clear and practical advice on navigating the local markets.

The Basics of Registering a Small Business in South Africa

Regardless of whether you are making a profit or the size of your company, there are advantages to registering your business in South Africa. These include business name protection, tax incentives, financial assistance and business compliance.

We answer all your other frequently asked questions (FAQs) about registering a new business:

Where Do I Register My Small Business?

  1. You can register your company online on the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) website, or on the Bizportal.gov.za website, a platform created by the CIPC that offers company registration and related services.
  2. You can also register your company via a bank, including Nedbank and First National Bank.
  3. Another way to register your business is to outsource the admin to businesses that have the expertise to offer company registration services and related services. Many of them provide packaged services that include company registration and related services such as SARS consulting, labour registrations, CIDB registration, and upgrades, tax returns/ compliance, or accounting services.

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Start Your Business with Our Essential Resources and Tools

Ready to start your business in South Africa? Our resources for SMEs are here to help you. We offer a range of tools to support your journey, including e-books, templates, guides, and reports. These resources are designed to make starting and growing your business easier. Whether you are just beginning or looking to expand, you will find practical information and tools that are essential for success.

Get the support you need to turn your ideas into reality and take your business to the next level. Explore our all-in-one resource hub and start building your business today!

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Free Expert Advice for Your Business

Are you a budding entrepreneur with a big idea? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned business owner looking to scale up? Either way, we’ve got you covered!

We’re excited to offer FREE 30-minute consultations with our team of experts dedicated to the success of SMEs and startups.

What can you expect from this consultation?

  • Expert guidance: Our seasoned professionals will provide tailored advice based on your unique business goals.
  • Problem-solving: Identify challenges and develop effective strategies to overcome them.
  • Opportunities: Discover untapped potential and explore new growth avenues.
  • Clarity: Gain a clear understanding of the next steps to take your business forward.

Don’t miss this golden opportunity to get expert advice at NO COST. Spaces are limited, so book your consultation today!

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How to Create a Pitch Deck That Will Stand Out

There is a lot of advice out there on how to make your business stand out to an investor, including having a good elevator pitch, knowing your stats, knowing your competitors, and don’t be afraid to participate in startup competitions. You can use your pitch deck to help you stand out.

Whether you want to pitch your product to big retailers or you are planning to pitch your business for funding, you need to be able to showcase a short presentation (a pitch deck) which will persuade them to buy into you (and/or your product).

Here are the most important sections your pitch deck needs to cover:

  • Problem and Opportunity
  • Product and Solution
  • Your Competitive Advantage
  • Your Business Model

Create a Pitch Deck That Stands Out

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Funding

SME Funding - Get Pre-Approved

Important – Please Read Before Applying:

  • This funding is strictly for registered businesses with a valid CIPC registration number.
  • Your business must have an active business bank account (applications using personal accounts will not be accepted).
  • Minimum monthly turnover: R50,000 for the past 6 months.
  • This is not personal funding or a grant.

Applications that do not meet these requirements will, unfortunately, not be processed.