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,...

Has Your Business Funding Application Been Approved? If you’ve recently applied for business funding, you might be wondering — what happens now? Congrats to those approved. If your application was declined, you're not alone, and you're not out of options. In this issue, we unpack why some applications fall short, how to improve next time, and where to find the funding insights you need. Why Some Applications Were Not Successful We know a rejection can be discouraging, but it's not the end of...

This Women’s Month, how are women making a difference? In this brief, we look at easy business ideas for women, the common problems they face, the funding and support they can get, and how women are breaking barriers and bringing new ideas to many industries. Guide to Business Ideas for Women Women own only 21.9% of businesses in South Africa, highlighting both a gap and opportunity for growth. Practical, low-cost business ideas include home-based ventures like freelance writing, baking, and...

Thinking of breaking into South Africa’s booming events industry? In this brief, we explore everything you need to know, from launching an events business and becoming a festival vendor to essential planning tips, compliance, digital tools, and opportunities to grow. Guide to Events Management in South Africa Event management in South Africa is a thriving industry with opportunities across weddings, corporate events, festivals, and sporting occasions. Running a successful event business means...

Are you making tax mistakes this season? In this brief, we explore common tax mistakes that small businesses still have time to avoid this tax season. From missed deductions to mixing personal and business finances, staying compliant can save your business from penalties and unnecessary stress. 5 Tax Mistakes Small Businesses Must Avoid 1. Mixing Personal and Business FinancesCombining your personal and business expenses can lead to bookkeeping chaos, missed deductions, and tax trouble....

Struggling with your business finances? You’re not alone, and the good news is, it’s easier to take control than you think. In this brief, we share simple financial tips to help you manage money better and avoid mistakes. We also unpack VAT essentials every SME should know to stay compliant and grow with confidence. Here’s What SARS Expects Small businesses must register for VAT once they exceed the income threshold. They must then issue tax invoices, file returns on time, and keep accurate...

Is your business ready for tax season? In this brief, we explore the essentials of business tax in South Africa. From SARS registration and key tax types, to helpful incentives that ease your tax burden. We also highlight important filing deadlines to help you stay compliant and avoid penalties. Guide to Business Tax in South Africa Business tax is essential for compliance and national development in South Africa. Businesses must register with SARS and may be liable for taxes like CIT, VAT,...

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 like 24/7...

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...