SME Brief

Looking for the right funding to grow your business? Securing funding is a key challenge for many entrepreneurs. In this brief, we will explore various small business funding options and help you choose the best one for your growth. Small Business Funding Grants in South Africa In South Africa, small businesses can access non-repayable grants to support growth and development. These grants, available from government bodies like IDC, NEF, TIA, and DTIC, fund activities such as training,...

Hi Reader Looking for smarter ways to grow your business? In this brief, we explore how AI automation and chatbots can help you save time, improve customer service, and boost efficiency with no coding required. Discover simple, affordable tools that are perfect for SMEs who are ready to scale. The Best Chatbot Builders for Your Business Chatbots offer small businesses an easy way to improve customer service, save time, and boost efficiency without needing coding skills. They provide features...

Feeling ready for tax season? In this brief, we explore key tips and strategies to help SMEs stay compliant, avoid penalties, and confidently manage their business taxes. Tax Filing and Compliance Guide for SMEs This SME tax compliance guide helps business owners prepare for tax year-end with practical tips and step-by-step instructions. It covers payroll reconciliation, avoiding personal tax filing mistakes, simplifying compliance, and how Sage software can support your process. Whether...

Today, we will explore the opportunities available in the transportation industry for SMEs and how you can start your own business in this field. Explore five types of transport businesses you can launch, compliance requirements for logistics companies, and practical advice for operating a transport business in South Africa. Our goal at SME BRIEF is to provide you with comprehensive information to help you get started and make the best decisions for your business venture. Additionally, you...

Are you protecting your business from the unexpected? Running a small business comes with risks, from theft to liability. Without insurance, one incident can set you back. In this brief, we ask what coverage your business needs and what risks you should prepare for to help you stay protected and focused on growth. Small Business Insurance: Start Here Small business insurance helps protect your operations from risks such as theft, lawsuits, and cyberattacks. Start by understanding your...

We are back with even better content for you. You may have noticed we’ve been a little quiet over the past few weeks. That’s because we’ve been working behind the scenes to make our newsletter even better for you, with more valuable content, insights, and opportunities tailored to help you grow your business. Key Takeaways from the 2025 SME South Africa Funding Summit The 2025 SME South Africa Funding Summit gathered entrepreneurs, funders and experts to tackle SME funding challenges. Key...

Do you have the right license for your business? In this brief, we explore the key licenses and permits needed to operate legally in South Africa, why compliance is crucial, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're launching or growing, staying legal is a must. What Is a Trade License in South Africa? A trade license in South Africa is a legal permit required for certain businesses to operate in specific areas. It ensures compliance with health, safety, and zoning regulations....

Do you work in the tourism industry or plan to start a business in this sector? Then you need to take a look at the Tourism Equity Fund.The Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) is a fund created by South Africa’s Department of Tourism (DT). The fund was established in collaboration with the banking institutions in the private sector. SEFA will be responsible for implementing the fund. The TEF is in line with existing B-BBEE legislation and aims to promote growth and transformation in the tourism sector....

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your chances of getting business funding? In this brief, we explore the most common mistakes that entrepreneurs make when applying for funding, from poor financial records to not doing enough research on funders. If you're planning to raise capital, these are the pitfalls you can’t afford to make. Small Business Funding Mistakes to Avoid Applying for small business funding requires careful preparation. Avoid common mistakes like requesting too much or too...