Previously considered the growth engine of the South African economy, the manufacturing industry has been in decline – with local manufacturers facing multiple challenges.

The manufacturing sector has been an area of focus for the government as it offers the greatest potential for job creation and economic growth.

In 2016 the government launched the Black Industrialist Scheme (BIS) which has the manufacturing sector as a key focus, to help stimulate the manufacturing industry. While the sector remains under pressure, some local manufacturers in particular niches are doing better than others. This includes the energy sector which holds potential for manufacturers to grow revenues with a green offering. 

Find out how you can launch a business in the manufacturing industry here 👇

New This Week (13 March 2023)  

• Essential Resources for Successfully Starting Your Business

• Business Documents: All You Need To Know 

• How To Set Business Objectives To Achieve Your Goals

Manufacturing Funding Opportunities: Black Industrialist Scheme (BIS)    

Launched in 2015 to fund 100 viable and sustainable projects in need of funding or looking to expand, the Black Industrialist Scheme is an initiative by the Department of Trade and Industry to get more black people involved in the productive sectors of the economy like transport, green industries, agro-processing, biofuels and chemicals.  

Eligible enterprises

• Majority of black-owned enterprises or those with a predominantly black management team;

• A minimum project value of R30 million

• Generate direct employment/jobs.

• Enterprises with a turnover of at least R1 million and not more than R35 million; and

• The enterprise must have been operating and trading for at least one financial year.

Are you looking for an Unsecured Loan?  

Complete our simple and easy-to-use form to compare multiple small business loan options.

Manufacturing Business Opportunities To Explore in 2023

Manufacturing forms an important part of South Africa’s economy. The South African manufacturing sector is large and innovative, with a wide range of opportunities that exist. Budding entrepreneurs should certainly consider entering the manufacturing market, as there is an opportunity for many profitable ventures.  

To start a manufacturing business, it’s important to understand where the most in-demand and profitable opportunities lie.

If you are thinking of launching a business in the manufacturing industry, there are many excellent opportunities available. Here are a few of the best manufacturing business ideas in South Africa right now:

• Glass Manufacturing 

• Earth Wire Manufacturing 

• Clothing Manufacturing 

• Soft Drinks Manufacturing 

• Shoe Manufacturing 

Read more about these business ideas in the article below  👇

Do you need Cash for your growing business? 

Choose Lula, SA’s first online provider of funding for SMEs. Backed by Access Bank, the process is fast, flexible, and secure. Lulalend provides unsecured business funding for an amount ranging between R10 000.00 - R5 000 000.00, over terms of 3, 6, 9, or 12 months.   

The minimum requirements are as follows: 

•  Your business must be actively trading for at least 1 year; 

•  Your business should have a minimum annual turnover of R 500 000; and 

•  Your business should have a minimum monthly turnover of R 40 000. 

•  If a Sole Trader – the business must be VAT registered. 

Unfortunately, Lulalend will not be able to assist if there are any adverse listings/judgements against the directors or company. Take note that the application process is 100% online.