Is your business ready for funding?

There are different things you need to do before you go out and seek funding. Here are some of the things you need to get right:

1. Prepare your business plan and a pitch deck.

2. Make sure you know what's going on in your business. You must know how your business is doing financially, know your unique selling proposition, and have an industry analysis.

3. Have an online presence.

4. Start networking with the right people and ask for referrals. Startwise is a good place to start, many mentors have the knowledge and experience on how to get the right investors.

5. Know which type of investor you are looking for. Understand that there are different types of investors (for example, Angel Investors VC Investors or Government Funding).

6. Be ready to pitch.

New This Week (31 October 2023)

• How to make use of blogging as a marketing tool9 Tips on how to retain customers

• LISTEN TO: Creating Value through Business Model Innovation

How to go about to set up a juice bar

A juice bar business is a good opportunity these days because more and more South Africans are embracing healthier lifestyles. Popular brands like Boost Juice Bar have entered the market, and you can even consider becoming a franchise owner of the brand.

Here are five things if you are considering setting up a juice bar:

1. A business plan: Download a template and start writing out your plan.

2. Location: Consider where your target market hangs out. 

3. Start-up costs: You will need to rent, and get equipment such as juicers and ice machines, a point-of-sale system and so on.

4. Legal and regulatory considerations: By law, your business will need to possess a business licence to operate, as well as a Certificate of Acceptability.

5. Consider a business loan: There are franchise loans available, as well as business loans that are not specifically for franchises.

Learn IE Artificial Intelligence in Business with GetSmarter

 Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way businesses operate, and professionals need to stay ahead of the curve. The IE Artificial Intelligence in Business online program from

GetSmarter can help you do just that. This five-week program will give you a comprehensive overview of AI and its applications in business. You'll learn about the different types of AI, how to identify and solve business problems with AI, and how to implement AI solutions effectively. The program is taught by experts from IE University, one of Europe's leading business schools. You'll also have the opportunity to learn from and network with other professionals from around the world. Here are just a few of the benefits of learning IE Artificial Intelligence in Business with GetSmarter:

• Gain a deep understanding of AI and its applications in business.

• Learn how to identify and solve business problems with AI.

• Develop the skills to implement AI solutions effectively.

• Network with other professionals from around the world.

• Earn a certificate from IE University, a top-ranked business school.

If you're interested in learning more about AI and how it can benefit your business, I encourage you to check out the IE Artificial Intelligence in Business online program from GetSmarter.

How to Network as a Makeup Artist or Beauty Care Professional

Networking is a crucial part of running your makeup artistry business.

It's a good idea to do the following:

• Attend beauty expos, trade shows, and networking events to connect with potential clients and other industry professionals.

• Join online forums and Facebook groups for makeup artists to exchange experiences and gain insights from peers.

• Create a professional website and/ or be active on social media.

• Collaborate with others: Look for ways to partner with makeup artists, hairstylists, or skincare experts.

Read more about tips and tactics you should follow to help you run a makeup artistry business the smart way:

How to better understand your customers' behaviour

Have you downloaded the ebook SME South Africa Cost-effective Digital Strategies For Growing Your Small Business Digital Marketing yet?

Here is an excerpt:

As a business owner, you must understand the psychological and emotional needs surrounding a purchase, you can also learn and understand how consumers spend their leisure time online. For example, you may find that a certain group is focused on saving money, this means discounts on items, coupons and promotions will appeal to them.

However, another group may value quality over cost and are willing to pay more for a product or service which is perceived as better, and therefore you can tailor your messaging accordingly.

4 Ways to Understand Your Customers

• Speak to them.

• Monitor online reviews. This will show you how your customers perceive your brand or product.

• Monitor social media and online trends.

• Pay attention to your analytics (audience by age, active online times and engagement with posts.