# Business Partners Limited > Business Partners Limited - Business Loan Provider for Viable SMEs --- ## Pages - [Services - Property Management](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-property-management/): Property Management Services Property and Asset Management Services Our Property and Asset Management Services Division delivers specialised property broking and... - [Competition](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/competition/): Business Partners PPRA Rules of Competition Business Partners Limited Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) and Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA)... - [Basadi-Women Growth Fund](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/basadi-women-growth-fund/): Business Partners Limited Basadi-Women Growth Fund We have introduced the Basadi-Women Growth Fund offering finance from R250 000 up to... - [Become a Business Partners Ltd Intermediary - Profile Creation](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/become-a-business-partners-ltd-intermediary-profile-creation/): How to create your Intermediary Profile Four quick steps to set up your profile https://www. businesspartners. co. za/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Step1. svg 1.... - [Asset Finance](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/asset-finance/): SME Finance Solution Asset Finance Business Partners Ltd Asset Finance provides Asset Finance ranging from R250 000 to R5 000... - [Short Term Finance](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/short-term-finance/): SME Finance Solution Short-Term Finance Business Partners Ltd Short-Term Finance provides quick access to finance ranging from R250 000 to... - [Become a Business Partners Ltd Intermediary](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/become-a-business-partners-ltd-intermediary/): Become a Business Partners Ltd Intermediary Help your clients get the finance they need and earn commission (a referral fee)... - [FAQs - Property Tenants](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-property-tenants/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubsribeUnsubsribe Property Tentants All available properties to... - [Office Locations](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/office-locations/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe Office Locations HEAD OFFICE T 011... - [Subscribe](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/subscribe/): Contact UsBilling & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubsribeUnsubsribe Subscribe Welcome to Business Partners Limited. By... - [Unsubscribe](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unsubscribe/): Contact UsBilling & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubsribeUnsubsribe Unubscribe Welcome to Business Partners Limited. Your... - [Info Hub - Growth Centre](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-growth-centre/): Info HubGrowthCentreMedia ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth Centre Goldmine of business insight available to all SA entrepreneurs While South Africans are encouraged... - [Services - Green Buildings Finance](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-green-buildings-finance/): SME Finance Solution Green Buildings Finance You are at the right website, wrong page. Our Green Buildings Finance term concluded... - [Energy Fund for SMEs](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/energy-fund-for-smes/): SME Finance Solution Energy Fund for SMEs You are at the right website, wrong page. Our Energy Fund for SMEs... - [Info Hub - Business Tips](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-business-tips/): Info Hub Business Tips Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth Centre - [Info Hub - Client Stories](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-client-stories/): Info Hub Client Stories Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth Centre - [Info Hub - Careers](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-careers/): Info Hub Careers Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth Centre At Business Partners Ltd, we recognise that our employees’ knowledge, skills and... - [FAQs - Billing & Accounts](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-billing-accounts/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe Billing & Accounts We generate and... - [FAQs - General Enquiries](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-general-enquiries/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe General Enquiries We consider all viable... - [FAQs - HR Enquiries](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-hr-enquiries/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe HR Enquiries We advertise all our... - [FAQs - Media & Public Relations](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-media-public-relations/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe Media & Public Relations You can... - [FAQs - New Finance Enquiries](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-new-finance-enquiries/): Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe New Finance Enquiries We do not... - [FAQs - Subscribe](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-subscribe/): Contact UsBilling & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribe Newsletter Subscription By completing the form available... - [About Us - Corporate Centre](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/about-us-corporate-centre/): Corporate Centre PHYSICAL ADDRESS 37 West Street Houghton Estate Johannesburg, 2198 South Africa POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 7780 Johannesburg, 2000... - [Business Funding](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/business-funding/): Our Application Process Application Steps We aim to be as quick as possible in giving you a response to your... - [Services - Non-Financial Services](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-non-financial-services/): Non-financialServices Our added-value services provide an integrated solution for you, catering for all aspects of your business needs. These include... - [Services - Business Finance](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-business-finance/): SME Finance Solution Business Finance The core of our focus is providing you with finance for your formal business. We... - [Services - Property Finance](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-property-finance/): SME Finance Solution Property Finance The core of our focus is providing you with finance for your formal business. We... - [Services - Property Joint Venture Fund](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-property-joint-venture-fund/): SME Finance Solution Property Joint Venture Fund The core of our focus is providing you with finance for your formal... - [Our Clients](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/our-clients/): Our Clients We pride ourselves on tailoring our finance to offer you a fair deal and meet your unique needs... - [Info Hub - Media Releases](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-media-releases/): Info HubMediaReleasesMedia ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth Centre - [About us - Our Heritage](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/about-us-our-heritage/): Our Heritage Over 41 Years Of Financing Entrepreneurs Our Story Africa and the world, needs more business owners – especially... - [Whistleblower Hotline](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/whistleblower-hotline/): Business Partners International Ethics and Whistleblower hotline One of our company values is integrity, which means that our actions should... - [External Privacy Policy](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/external-privacy-policy/): Business Partners Limited External Privacy Policy 1. 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Since 1981,... --- ## Posts - [How SA SMEs can take control of their cash flow and build financial resilience](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-sa-smes-can-take-control-of-their-cash-flow-and-build-financial-resilience/): Cash flow remains one of the toughest challenges for South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Not only does it... - [How SA SMEs can take control of their cash flow and build financial resilience](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-sa-smes-can-take-control-of-their-cash-flow-and-build-financial-resilience-2/): Cash flow remains one of the toughest challenges for South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Not only does it... - [Proactive succession planning key to leaving a lasting legacy](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/proactive-succession-planning-key-to-leaving-a-lasting-legacy/): When building a business from the ground up, founders are often asked about the legacy they want to leave to... - [Why SA SMEs need to hire smart in this economy, not fast](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/why-sa-smes-need-to-hire-smart-in-this-economy-not-fast/): South Africa’s current labour market presents a paradox that many business owners know all too well. On the one hand,... - [How to beat the odds in your first year of business](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-beat-the-odds-in-your-first-year-of-business/): According to recent data from the Australian . Failure rates in South Africa are nearly double that, with 40% of... - [The SME disconnect – why are SMEs not seeing benefits from economic uptick?](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-sme-disconnect-why-are-smes-not-seeing-benefits-from-economic-uptick/): South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) reported a broad-based decline in confidence during the third quarter of 2025, despite... - [How to protect your business from the cybercrime surge](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-protect-your-business-from-the-cybercrime-surge/): Whether your business is experiencing its busiest period or a slowdown, one constant threat remains, the ongoing surge in cybercrime,... - [Born with the business: entrepreneur building a R100 million family legacy](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/born-with-the-business-entrepreneur-building-a-r100-million-family-legacy/): Khaya Sakawuli is one of the few entrepreneurs who can claim that he is exactly the same age as his... - [Local factory a bulwark against tide of imports](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/local-factory-a-bulwark-against-tide-of-imports/): Having spent his whole life in the hair care and cosmetics industry, Shailesh Bhavanbhai knows how important it is to... - [New fund unlocks finance for women entrepreneurs](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/new-fund-unlocks-finance-for-women-entrepreneurs/): Business Partners Limited has launched a new fund designed to support women-owned businesses that struggle to access finance through traditional... - [Should your business offer Buy Now, Pay Later?](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/should-your-business-offer-buy-now-pay-later/): Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is undoubtedly one of the fastest-growing developments in South Africa’s payment landscape. While card payments... - [Your first hire matters more than you think – here’s how to get it right](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/your-first-hire-matters-more-than-you-think-heres-how-to-get-it-right/): Bringing your first employee on board is a major milestone for any small business, but it’s also one of the... - [Building a values-driven business: Why culture matters even in a small team](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-values-driven-business-why-culture-matters-even-in-a-small-team/): Research indicates that employees who feel a strong connection to their organisation’s culture are four times more likely to be... - [Brainstorming: your hidden weapon for business success](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/brainstorming-your-hidden-weapon-for-business-success/): It’s been a tough year for many South African entrepreneurs. A 2025 study revealed that more than half (52,8%) of... - [How to manage your business online reputation this festive season](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-manage-your-business-online-reputation-this-festive-season/): As we step into the festive season, it is a perfect time to reflect on what truly matters for small... - [Breaking barriers: Business Partners Limited launches new Basadi-Women Growth Fund to close the gender financing gap](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/breaking-barriers-business-partners-limited-launches-new-basadi-women-growth-fund-to-close-the-gender-financing-gap/): The GEM SA Special Report: Women’s Entrepreneurship in South Africa Report (2024) reveals a concerning trend: the rate of women... - [An entrepreneur’s guide to spotting market gaps that matter](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/an-entrepreneurs-guide-to-spotting-market-gaps-that-matter/): Entrepreneurship and passion are somewhat synonymous, but passion alone is not enough to be successful in business. The most successful... - [Africa’s growing demand for South African businesses takes centre stage during Global Entrepreneurship Week](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/africas-growing-demand-for-south-african-businesses-takes-centre-stage-during-global-entrepreneurship-week/): As Global Entrepreneurship Week shines a spotlight on innovation and cross-border opportunities, Africa’s economic momentum is impossible to ignore. With... - [Educational entrepreneur’s success a bulwark against the forces that tried to destroy him](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/educational-entrepreneurs-success-a-bulwark-against-the-forces-that-tried-to-destroy-him/): It’s rare for the story of a single entrepreneur to highlight on one of South Africa’s greatest obstacles to progress... - [Resilience on the short: the inspiring comeback of Crawfords Beach Lodge](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/resilience-on-the-short-the-inspiring-comeback-of-crawfords-beach-lodge/): When Mark Crawford looks out over the buildings of Crawfords Beach Lodge nestled among lush coastal vegetation above the beautiful... - [Why in-person networking still matters for business owners](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/why-in-person-networking-still-matters-for-business-owners/): Essential preparation tips for attending networking events In the words of business magnate, Richard Branson, “Success in business is all... - [The smart entrepreneur’s guide to letting go of a business idea](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-smart-entrepreneurs-guide-to-letting-go-of-a-business-idea/): According to research by the University of the Western Cape, between 70% and 80% of small businesses in South Africa... - [Small businesses urged to treat Black Friday as a visibility moment, not a discount race](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/small-businesses-urged-to-treat-black-friday-as-a-visibility-moment-not-a-discount-race/): As the world prepares for another Black Friday (28 November), South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have a golden... - [How to put your mental health first as a business owner](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-put-your-mental-health-first-as-a-business-owner/): Countless studies confirm the relationship between poor mental health or even a negative mood and lost productivity, but many of... - [Funeral industry innovator named SA’s 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year®](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/funeral-industry-innovator-named-sas-2025-entrepreneur-of-the-year/): South Africa’s funeral industry is valued at over R10 billion yet remains one of the country’s least digitised sectors. In... - [From Funeral Services to Fashion: South Africa’s Most Innovative Entrepreneurs of 2025](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-funeral-services-to-fashion-south-africas-most-innovative-entrepreneurs-of-2025/): Five SMEs are transforming South Africa’s economy through innovation, job creation, and unconventional leadership In a year marked by economic... - [Purpose pays: How young entrepreneurs can build businesses with impact](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/purpose-pays-how-young-entrepreneurs-can-build-businesses-with-impact/): There used to be a common misconception that doing good and doing well were mutually exclusive in business. However, as... - [PR vs Marketing: How can PR elevate your small business](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/pr-vs-marketing-how-can-pr-elevate-your-small-business/): Public relations (PR) and marketing are often terms that are used interchangeably. In business, both functions are critical in building... - [SME confidence lifts amid global pressures as businesses pin hopes on Madlanga Commission](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sme-confidence-lifts-amid-global-pressures-as-businesses-pin-hopes-on-madlanga-commission/): South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are cautiously optimistic that the newly established Madlanga Commission will mark a turning... - [Boss’s Day is due for a rethink – lets celebrate leadership, not just titles](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/bosss-day-is-due-for-a-rethink-lets-celebrate-leadership-not-just-titles/): Every year on 16 October, many business owners and leaders find themselves awkwardly accepting cards or gifts from their teams... - [The weakest link in a business’s computer system is not where you think it is](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-weakest-link-in-a-businesss-computer-system-is-not-where-you-think-it-is/): The number one threat in the online security of businesses in South Africa is not in their computer systems, but... - [In Cape Town’s packed tourism scene, guest house finds its place with golf](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/in-cape-towns-packed-tourism-scene-guest-house-finds-its-place-with-golf/): When Jolyon Proudman and Heike Lührmann started La Roche Guesthouse in a leafy street in the coastal Cape Town suburb... - [Daring to dream big: the engineering small business that has gone global](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/daring-to-dream-big-the-engineering-small-business-that-has-gone-global/): While most entrepreneurs typically start their businesses in their late thirties, after first spending years learning the ins and outs... - [Celebrating SA’s real MVPs](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/celebrating-sas-real-mvps/): Every year on 16 October, Boss’s Day gives employees an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the people who lead them... - [Stronger minds, stronger businesses: Why entrepreneurs need mental mentors](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/stronger-minds-stronger-businesses-why-entrepreneurs-need-mental-mentors/): Running a business is often portrayed as a path to independence and success. But behind the scenes, many entrepreneurs are... - [SA's economic drivers: 15 business owners vie for the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year® title](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sas-economic-drivers-15-business-owners-vie-for-the-2025-entrepreneur-of-the-year-title/): As South Africa grapples with modest growth and high unemployment, entrepreneurs are stepping up as job creators and economic drivers.... - [Infrastructure: the missing link in South Africa’s SME growth story](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/infrastructure-the-missing-link-in-south-africas-sme-growth-story/): As South Africa marks Transport Month, the country’s infrastructure challenges continue to pose serious barriers to the growth and development... - [Saving strategies for SMEs: Cutting costs without cutting corners](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/saving-strategies-for-smes-cutting-costs-without-cutting-corners/): For many South African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), economic conditions in the country have pushed profitability to a critical... - [Common legal mistakes SMEs make and how to avoid them](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/common-legal-mistakes-smes-make-and-how-to-avoid-them/): Legal matters can be confusing within the business landscape and particularly so for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From contract... - [A time for renewal: How SMEs can streamline processes for a more seamless operation](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/a-time-for-renewal-how-smes-can-streamline-processes-for-a-more-seamless-operation/): As a small to medium business (SME) owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and overlook... - [Local is lekker: the business case for going local this Heritage Day](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/local-is-lekker-the-business-case-for-going-local-this-heritage-day/): Entrepreneurs who source and make local products often feel like they are competing against a global stage, even when their... - [Diversification: the best insurance policy against a tourism slump](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/diversification-the-best-insurance-policy-against-a-tourism-slump/): The Covid-19 pandemic was a brutal lesson that travelling, the lifeblood of the tourism industry, can come to an abrupt... - [Playing the long game, entrepreneur fulfils her bright yellow dream](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/playing-the-long-game-entrepreneur-fulfils-her-bright-yellow-dream/): Growing up poor in a small rural village in the Eastern Cape, Tuletu Kobo fixated on the dream of one... - [Entrepreneur builds a thriving guest house - and a big extended family](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/entrepreneur-builds-a-thriving-guest-house-and-a-big-extended-family/): Few businesses are as all-consuming as a guest house. Take JJ Pieterse, who has built up the Ramasi Guest Services... - [Mastering the art of business negotiation for SMEs](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/mastering-the-art-of-business-negotiation-for-smes/): In business, few skills are as universally valuable as the ability to negotiate well. Whether you’re securing better payment terms... - [Using technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/using-technology-to-streamline-operations-and-improve-efficiency/): For local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), there is a constant pressure to do more with less, which means finding... - [From inclusive to profitable: 8 ways to support women at work](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-inclusive-to-profitable-8-ways-to-support-women-at-work/): Women’s Month presents a uniquely South African opportunity for business owners to reflect on one of the most important competitive... - [Turning crisis into capital: how one training business is empowering entrepreneurs](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/turning-crisis-into-capital-how-one-training-business-is-empowering-entrepreneurs/): Sherene Anandham had worked her way up in the corporate world from shop assistant to group financial manager when the... - [Supporting young business owners: The power of intergenerational collaboration in small business innovation](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/supporting-young-business-owners-the-power-of-intergenerational-collaboration-in-small-business-innovation/): Youth unemployment in South Africa is at concerning levels, with the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey by Stats SA revealing... - [Five tips for opening and running a hospitality business in 2025](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/five-tips-for-opening-and-running-a-hospitality-business-in-2025/): As South Africa gears up to host the G20 Leaders Summit in November – the first ever on African soil... - [Women’s Month: celebrating progress, inspiring possibility](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/womens-month-celebrating-progress-inspiring-possibility/): When René Botha, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited, reflects on her career spanning over two decades, she sees... - [Drilling into opportunity and tackling mining one rig at a time](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/drilling-into-opportunity-and-tackling-mining-one-rig-at-a-time/): Zanele Nkosi never imagined she’d one day be running a drilling company, breaking new ground, literally and figuratively in the... - [Bridging the gender finance gap in South African entrepreneurship](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/bridging-the-gender-finance-gap-in-south-african-entrepreneurship/): New research from Mastercard reveals that 57% of South African women identify as entrepreneurs, surpassing the regional average of 51%... - [How to authentically embrace diversity, equity and inclusion in your business operations](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-authentically-embrace-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-your-business-operations-2/): We’ve all seen big businesses attempt to jump on the latest trend or global movement, positioning themselves as ‘the brand... - [How to build strong business networks and partnerships](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-build-strong-business-networks-and-partnerships/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited As a business owner, your network is more than a list... - [Mid-year business check-in: How to reassess goals for the second half of the year](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/mid-year-business-check-in-how-to-reassess-goals-for-the-second-half-of-the-year/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited By the middle of the year, most small business owners are... - [Entrepreneur of the Year® Awards now open for entries](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/entrepreneur-of-the-year-awards-now-open-for-entries/): SA entrepreneurs are rising beyond their roots, but growth demands support SME confidence is climbing in 2025, with more business... - [Missed out on Mandela Day? - tips to make the most of next year](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/missed-out-on-mandela-day-tips-to-make-the-most-of-next-year/): Small business, big heart: here is how you can maximise your impact on Mandela Day and continue to make a... - [New, empowered generation taking parents’ legacy to the next level](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/new-empowered-generation-taking-parents-legacy-to-the-next-level/): Increasingly across South Africa intrepid black entrepreneurs are starting to hand over to their children the businesses that they have... - [Preschool entrepreneurs put passion before profits](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/preschool-entrepreneurs-put-passion-before-profits/): Husband and wife team Cheryl de Freitas and Marnewicke Loubser know that the financial rewards of growing their Tiny Tots... - [Building a resilient and motivated workforce: HR best practices for small businesses](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-resilient-and-motivated-workforce-hr-best-practices-for-small-businesses/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited In a growing business, your people are your greatest strength, but... - [Beyond 67 minutes: SMEs hold the key to lasting community upliftment](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/beyond-67-minutes-smes-hold-the-key-to-lasting-community-upliftment/): Did you know that South Africa has around 3 million small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) collectively employing about 13 million... - [SA entrepreneurs are rising beyond their roots, but growth demands support](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sa-entrepreneurs-are-rising-beyond-their-roots-but-growth-demands-support/): SME confidence is climbing in 2025, with more business owners viewing the economy and government efforts as supportive of growth.... - [Bridging the gap – tips on how business owners can create youth-friendly work environments](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/bridging-the-gap-tips-on-how-business-owners-can-create-youth-friendly-work-environments/): Bridging the gap – tips on how business owners can create youth-friendly work environments It is fair to say that... - [Business plan competition award a boost for the community](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/business-plan-competition-award-a-boost-for-the-community/): A small education company’s already outsized impact on a community in Soweto got a major boost when they won the... - [Seasoned professional builds a thriving law firm, overcomes adversity](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/seasoned-professional-builds-a-thriving-law-firm-overcomes-adversity/): Starting your own business is always harder than you think, even for the highly qualified professions such as lawyers. For... - [How to streamline your business operations and unlock greater profit](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-streamline-your-business-operations-and-unlock-greater-profit/): Running a small business in South Africa particularly these days comes with its own set of challenges. Between rising input... - [The sustainability edge: Beyond Earth Day, why going green is good for business](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-sustainability-edge-beyond-earth-day-why-going-green-is-good-for-business/): Adopting green practices can feel like a drop in the ocean of climate change for small and medium enterprises (SMEs),... - [Calling all aspiring young entrepreneurs: enter the 2025 SME Toolkit Business Plan competition!](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/calling-all-aspiring-young-entrepreneurs-enter-the-2025-sme-toolkit-business-plan-competition/): Are you a young, aspiring entrepreneur? Do you know of a young entrepreneur with big dreams for business? Do you... - [The SME solution to youth unemployment](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-sme-solution-to-youth-unemployment/): With youth unemployment rising to 46,1% in the first quarter of 2025 – a 9,2 percentage increase over the past... - [Three reasons why diversity gives small businesses in SA a competitive edge](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/three-reasons-why-diversity-gives-small-businesses-in-sa-a-competitive-edge/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited There is a strong case for diversity and inclusion in business... - [How South African small businesses can compete with big brands](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-south-african-small-businesses-can-compete-with-big-brands/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Competing with well-known brands can feel like an uphill battle. They... - [Building a legacy: why SA’s youth-led businesses need support to thrive](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-legacy-why-sas-youth-led-businesses-need-support-to-thrive/): South Africa’s youth face one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, but instead of waiting for the right... - [Challenges and opportunities for SMEs for the year ahead](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/challenges-and-opportunities-for-smes-for-the-year-ahead/): South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have had a tumultuous few years, affected by a broad spectrum of political... - [Five tips for managing a remote workforce](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/five-tips-for-managing-a-remote-workforce/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Big corporations like Amazon, Starbucks, and Uber may be pushing employees... - [Unlocking prosperity: How Africa Month offers solutions amid global trade tensions](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unlocking-prosperity-how-africa-month-offers-solutions-amid-global-trade-tensions/): This May, it is entirely understandable for many business owners, especially those who trade internationally, to put things on hold... - [Entrepreneur prepares to pass on the baton to the next generation](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/entrepreneur-prepares-to-pass-on-the-baton-to-the-next-generation/): Building a wealth-generating business from scratch is hard and doing it in such a way that you can pass it... - [Unstoppable entrepreneur takes on a few ‘quiet’ property development projects](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unstoppable-entrepreneur-takes-on-a-few-quiet-property-development-projects/): An unmistakable mark of a true entrepreneur is someone who moves to a quiet coastal town for a “slower pace... - [How to build a strong business credit profile for easier access to funding](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-build-a-strong-business-credit-profile-for-easier-access-to-funding-2/): The National Development Plan (NDP) envisions that by 2030, 90% of South Africa’s 11 million needed jobs will be created... - [Smooth business handovers: A survival guide for SA entrepreneurs](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/smooth-business-handovers-a-survival-guide-for-sa-entrepreneurs/): In today’s dynamic business environment, leadership transitions are inevitable. Whether due to a C-suite reshuffle, a merger, or an acquisition... - [From side hustle to full-time business: 5 Practical tips for small business owners taking the leap](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-side-hustle-to-full-time-business-5-practical-tips-for-small-business-owners-taking-the-leap/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Running a business on the side while holding down a full-time... - [Four ways to prepare your hospitality business for a South African winter](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/four-ways-to-prepare-your-hospitality-business-for-a-south-african-winter/): Tourism is a key economic driver in South Africa with its beaches, nature reserves, and bustling hospitality scene contributing approximately... - [Building a winning brand: How small businesses can stand out in a crowded market](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-winning-brand-how-small-businesses-can-stand-out-in-a-crowded-market/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited In a country like South Africa, where approximately small, micro and... - [Beyond the bottom line: how to motivate, engage, and retain small business employees](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/beyond-the-bottom-line-how-to-motivate-engage-and-retain-small-business-employees/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited There was a time when a gold watch marked the end... - [Five signs that your business plan needs to be revisited in today’s economy](https://www.businesspartners.co.za/five-signs-that-your-business-plan-needs-to-be-revisited-in-todays-economy/): By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited A business plan is never set in stone. 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While these factors are important, sustained... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2026-02-19 - Modified: 2026-02-20 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-property-management/ Property Management Services Property and Asset Management Services Our Property and Asset Management Services Division delivers specialised property broking and management solutions designed specifically for the needs of SMEs. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundProperty and Asset Management Services Our Property and Asset Management Services Division delivers specialised property broking and management solutions designed specifically for the needs of SMEs. We offer: Property broking services: sourcing and securing business premises at market‑related rentals or purchase prices to support your operational growth Integrated property management: comprehensive management services for enterprises that own property, whether for their own use or as income‑generating rental assets Our national property management portfolio spans a diverse range of commercial requirements, with a strong focus on the retail and industrial sectors. Properties under our management include individual retail sites, shopping centres, office spaces, and industrial parks located across all major commercial hubs in South Africa. Our aim is to ensure that SMEs benefit from professionally managed, well‑maintained, and strategically located business premises that support long‑term sustainability and growth. Looking for property to rent or a company to manage your property? If you are looking for property to rent or a company to manage your property, reach out to our Property and Asset Management Services Division. Submit an enquiryWant to FICA for Property Practitioners Act compliance? In accordance with Section 54 of the Property Practitioners Act (the Act), administered by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA), all tenant rental deposits must be held... --- - Published: 2026-02-13 - Modified: 2026-03-05 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/competition/ Business Partners PPRA Rules of Competition Business Partners Limited Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) and Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) Compliance Competition Rules) Terms & Conditions i. Eligibility • The lucky draw is open to all active tenants in good standing with their rental accounts • Tenants must submit complete and valid Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) documentation as listed in the communication from Business Partners Limited • Only submissions received by 23:59 on 16 March 2026 will be considered ii. Entry criteria • One entry per tenant account, regardless of multiple documents submitted • Incomplete or invalid FICA submissions will not qualify for the draw iii. Winner selection • Winners will be chosen via a random draw conducted by the Business Partners Limited management team • The draw will take place within 10 working days after the closing date being 16 March 2026 • Winners will be notified via email and/or telephone. If a winner cannot be reached within 5 working days, a new winner may be selected • Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash or credit iv. General • By entering, tenants consent to their names being announced for winner communication purposes • Selecting Yes to the Lucky Draw constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions --- - Published: 2025-01-22 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/basadi-women-growth-fund/ Business Partners Limited Basadi-Women Growth Fund We have introduced the Basadi-Women Growth Fund offering finance from R250 000 up to R5 million for women-owned SMEs. This initiative stems from our recognition that South African women entrepreneurs continue to face systemic barriers in accessing finance – such as limited collateral, gender bias in lending practices, and restricted networks for capital. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundBasadi-Women Growth Fund By bridging this gap, the Basadi-Women Growth Fund aims to empower women-led businesses and unlock their potential as drivers of inclusive development. The Business Partners Limited Basadi-Women Growth Fund provides business finance ranging from R250 000 to R5 million to women entrepreneurs with a viable formal business. The finance can be used for property acquisition, working capital, asset or equipment finance, acquisitions or takeovers, start-up franchises or as replacement finance. Why You Should Choose Our Business Finance You should choose the Business Partners Limited Basadi-Women Growth Fund because: We are invested in seeing business owners succeed: We have spent over four decades adjusting our products and services to boost the success of the business owners we support We provide more than just money: Because we understand the experiences and challenges business owners face, we take more risk than most financiers We offer a repayment moratorium of up to 6 months We offer interest capitalisation of up to 6 months Loan Amount R250 000 to R5 million Our Financing Criteria To qualify, the legal entity borrowing finance (borrower) needs... --- - Published: 2024-09-11 - Modified: 2024-10-31 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/become-a-business-partners-ltd-intermediary-profile-creation/ How to create your Intermediary Profile Four quick steps to set up your profile 1. Capture details Enter your personal and contact details 2. Verify your email Follow the simple email verification steps 3. Wait for approval We will review and approve your profile within 7 days 4. Start applying Once you profile has been approved you will abe able to submit applications for your clients Get started --- - Published: 2023-10-25 - Modified: 2025-12-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/asset-finance/ SME Finance Solution Asset Finance Business Partners Ltd Asset Finance provides Asset Finance ranging from R250 000 to R5 000 000 to established and viable businesses. The finance can be used to purchase business equipment such as manufacturing or engineering equipment. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundAsset Finance Access equipment finance up to R5 million. About Business Partners Ltd Asset Finance Business Partners Ltd Asset Finance provides asset finance ranging from R250 000 to R5 million to established and viable businesses to acquire the essential equipment they need to grow their business. If needed, we also cover the VAT associated with the equipment acquisition. The finance can be used to purchase business equipment such as manufacturing or engineering equipment. Choose us to unlock your potential today! What type of equipment do we finance? We can only finance new equipment through the Business Partners Ltd Asset Finance. Below is a list of equipment types that can be financed through this financing solution: Manufacturing equipment e. g. CNC and milling machinery Engineering equipment e. g. laser cutting and fabricating machinery Alternative energy equipment e. g. solar panels, inverters Other general equipment Does Your Business Qualify? To qualify, your business needs to meet the following criteria: The business must be a registered entity. The business should have a trading history of no less than 2 years. The business must have a profitable track record. The business must have a clear credit record. The business must be able to... --- - Published: 2023-10-25 - Modified: 2026-01-29 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/short-term-finance/ SME Finance Solution Short-Term Finance Business Partners Ltd Short-Term Finance provides quick access to finance ranging from R250 000 to R750 000 to established and viable businesses. The finance can be used for the working capital needs of your business. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundShort-Term Finance Quick finance for your short term working capital needs. About Business Partners Ltd Short-Term Finance Business Partners Ltd Short-Term Finance provides quick access to finance ranging from R250 000 to R750 000 to established and viable businesses. The finance can be used for the working capital needs of your business. What Can The Short-Term Finance Be Used For? Business Partners Ltd Short-Term Finance solves the short-term cash constraints for the business. Finance can be used to address: (I)Temporary cash constraints due to Change to Growing debtors book. Upfront investment in stock before receiving cash from customers Entering a new growth phase Quiet periods in a cyclical business. (II)Unexpected large cash requirement due to: A new contract Peak demand for specific products A sudden increase in input costs Does Your Business Qualify? To qualify, your business must meet the following criteria: The business must be a registered entity. The business must have a trading history of no less than 2 years. The business must reflect a history of growth in turnover. The business must have a valid tax clearance certificate. The business must have a profitable track record. The business must have a clear credit record. The business must... --- - Published: 2023-09-12 - Modified: 2024-10-31 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/become-a-business-partners-ltd-intermediary/ Become a Business Partners Ltd Intermediary Help your clients get the finance they need and earn commission (a referral fee) for your efforts. Create a new profileLog in with an existing profileWe provide finance ranging from R500 000 to R50 million to established entrepreneurs with a viable formal business. We tailor our finance to meet the business’s unique needs and negotiate pricing and repayment terms with each client. By becoming an intermediary, you can apply for finance on your client’s behalf or simply refer the client to us. You will receive a commission once the transaction has been concluded and the money has been disbursed to the client. Become a Business Partners Ltd Intermediary Help your clients get the finance they need and earn commission (a referral fee) for your business. Step 1 Create a profile on our easy to use online platform. Step 2 You can submit and track one or multiple applications on your client’s behalf. The application will be assigned to an investment professional. Both you and your client will then be kept up to date on the progress of your client’s application. You can make and track multiple applications on behalf of your different clients. Step 3 Receive your commission once the transaction is concluded and the first money disbursement is made to the client. Create new profileGet Intermediary training Whether you are a new or existing Business Partners Ltd Intermediary, join one of our training sessions to learn more about our financing solutions and how... --- - Published: 2023-05-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-property-tenants/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubsribeUnsubsribeProperty Tentants Where Can I Find The List Of Available Properties For Sale Or To Let? All available properties to let or for sale are available in the Info Hub section of our website. Where Can I Log A Fault With The Premises I Am Renting? Please contact your Property Manager as soon as possible or complete the enquiry form available from the link below to report this. I Am Experiencing Challenges With My Billing, Where Can Report This? Please contact your Property Manager as soon as possible or complete the enquiry form available from the link below to report this and we will ensure this is fixed. Still have a question? Submit An EnquiryLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-05-21 - Modified: 2026-01-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/office-locations/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeOffice Locations Branch Contact & Locations HEAD OFFICE T 011 713 6600 F 011 713 6650 enquiries@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL 37 West Street Houghton Estate Johannesburg, 2198 POSTAL PO Box 7780 Johannesburg, 2000 South Africa BLOEMFONTEIN T 051 403 9846 F 051 403 9847 enquiries@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL 19 Reid Street Westdene Bloemfontein, 9300 POSTAL PO Box 25932 Langenhoven Park, 9330 South Africa CAPE TOWN T 021 464 3600 F 021 461 8720 bpmarketingwc@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL 1 Mispel Road Corner of Mispel & Durban Roads Belville, 7530 POSTAL PO Box 4295 Cape Town, 8000 South Africa DURBAN T 031 240 7700 F 031 266 7286 T 031 240 7702 (Property Management Services) enquiries@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL Business Partners Centre 23 Jan Hofmeyr Road Westville, 3630 POSTAL PO Box 636 Westville, 3630 South Africa EAST LONDON T 043 721 1525 F 043 726 0317 enquiries@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL Leadwood House Cedar Square Bonza Bay Road Beacon Bay East London, 5214 POSTAL PO Box 19669 Tecoma East London, 5214 South Africa EAST RAND (BOKSBURG) T 011 395 4150 F 011 395 2565 enquiries@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL Ground Floor, Left Wing Block B, Clearwater Office Park 2 Park Road, Corner of Atlas Road Parkhaven Ext 8 POSTAL Boksburg, 1459 PO Box 17019 Atlasville, 1465 South Africa GEORGE T 044 873 6112 bpmarketingwc@businesspartners. co. za PHYSICAL Office 6D Shamrock Place 97 York Street George, 6529 GQEBERHA T 041 367 1082... --- - Published: 2023-05-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/subscribe/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubsribeUnsubsribeSubscribe Welcome to Business Partners Limited. By completing the form available from the subscribe button below, you will receive our newsletters with business tips and entrepreneur stories, personalised promotions, as well as updates on our products and services on offer to you. The form allows you to select your preferred communication medium. We look forward to staying in touch. SubscribeLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-05-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unsubscribe/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubsribeUnsubsribeUnubscribe Welcome to Business Partners Limited. Your email inbox and other communication platforms are part of your personal space and we want to make sure we always respect your preferences. While we would like to stay connected and do not want to see you go, however, should you wish to unsubscribe, you can click on the button below to complete the unsubscribe form. Should you wish to re-subscribe at a later stage, you are always welcome. UnubscribeLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-05-21 - Modified: 2023-09-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-growth-centre/ Info Hub GrowthCentre Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth CentreGoldmine of business insight available to all SA entrepreneurs While South Africans are encouraged to pursue entrepreneurship as a career choice, many aren’t always equipped with the information and resources to start a business or are very wary of starting their entrepreneurial journey unprepared for the future challenges they may face. To bridge this gap and to supply both budding and experienced entrepreneurs with advice and assistance, Business Partners Limited (BUSINESS/PARTNERS) has the Entrepreneurs Growth Centre. Through financing small and medium enterprises over 40 years, BUSINESS/PARTNERS has built up an immense store of knowledge and skills invaluable to any business. It has now found a way of giving South African entrepreneurs quick and free access to this gold mine of information and insight. Any person, anywhere in South Africa, is able to contact BUSINESS/PARTNERS’ Entrepreneurs Growth Centre to discuss any queries they have about business – “How do I register for VAT? How do I fire a disruptive employee without running into trouble at the CCMA? Is my pricing right? How do I get into exporting? Am I paying too much for my credit card merchant service? Should I buy this building, or go on renting it? Is my business plan any good? ” Assistance from the BUSINESS/PARTNERS’ Entrepreneurs Growth Centre is free of charge and entrepreneurs are able to get in touch via telephone or email. To reach the Entrepreneurs Growth Centre, please call 0861 763 346 (0861 SME FIN), or email... --- - Published: 2023-04-25 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-green-buildings-finance/ SME Finance Solution Green Buildings Finance You are at the right website, wrong page. Our Green Buildings Finance term concluded at the end of March 2025. We are excited to announce that we can finance your property through our Property Finance. Vist our Property Finance Page --- - Published: 2023-04-25 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/energy-fund-for-smes/ SME Finance Solution Energy Fund for SMEs You are at the right website, wrong page. Our Energy Fund for SMEs term concluded at the end in March 2025. We are excited to announce that we now finance your energy supply needs through our Asset Finance. Let us help you power your business! Vist our Asset Finance Page --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-09-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-business-tips/ Info Hub Business Tips Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth CentreFaiz Hartley2025-10-16T10:55:47+02:00The weakest link in a business’s computer system is not where you think it is The number one threat in the online security of businesses in Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-10-16T10:53:15+02:00Boss’s Day is due for a rethink – lets celebrate leadership, not just titles Every year on 16 October, many business owners and leaders find Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-10-15T11:05:45+02:00Celebrating SA’s real MVPs Every year on 16 October, Boss’s Day gives employees an opportunity Read More >Veroshen Naidoo2025-10-06T14:02:43+02:00Infrastructure: the missing link in South Africa’s SME growth story As South Africa marks Transport Month, the country’s infrastructure challenges continue Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-10-01T13:53:39+02:00A time for renewal: How SMEs can streamline processes for a more seamless operation As a small to medium business (SME) owner, it’s easy to Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-10-01T13:52:08+02:00Common legal mistakes SMEs make and how to avoid them Legal matters can be confusing within the business landscape and particularly Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-10-01T13:52:27+02:00Saving strategies for SMEs: Cutting costs without cutting corners For many South African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), economic conditions Read More >Friedrich2025-09-17T09:47:53+02:00Diversification: the best insurance policy against a tourism slump The Covid-19 pandemic was a brutal lesson that travelling, the lifeblood Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-09-09T14:20:32+02:00Mastering the art of business negotiation for SMEs In business, few skills are as universally valuable as the ability Read More >Jeremy Lang2025-09-04T09:59:06+02:00Using technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency For local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), there is a constant Read More >Kgomotso Ramoenyane2025-08-27T19:02:08+02:00From... --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2024-07-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-client-stories/ Info Hub Client Stories Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth CentreBPL Admin2025-10-16T10:59:01+02:00Daring to dream big: the engineering small business that has gone global While most entrepreneurs typically start their businesses in their late thirties, after first spending years learning the ins and outs of an industry by working for someone else, especially Read More >BPL Admin2025-10-16T10:57:28+02:00In Cape Town’s packed tourism scene, guest house finds its place with golf When Jolyon Proudman and Heike Lührmann started La Roche Guesthouse in a leafy street in the coastal Cape Town suburb of Milnerton twenty years ago, there was only one Read More >BPL Admin2025-09-17T09:52:19+02:00Entrepreneur builds a thriving guest house – and a big extended family Few businesses are as all-consuming as a guest house. Take JJ Pieterse, who has built up the Ramasi Guest Services CC in Panorama, Cape Town, from scratch over two Read More >BPL Admin2025-09-17T09:50:05+02:00Playing the long game, entrepreneur fulfils her bright yellow dream Growing up poor in a small rural village in the Eastern Cape, Tuletu Kobo fixated on the dream of one day owning her own hotel. She can’t quite pinpoint Read More >BPL Admin2025-08-26T13:13:17+02:00Turning crisis into capital: how one training business is empowering entrepreneurs Sherene Anandham had worked her way up in the corporate world from shop assistant to group financial manager when the blatant structural unfairness still facing female executives in South Read More >BPL Admin2025-08-26T13:09:18+02:00Drilling into opportunity and tackling mining one rig at a time Zanele Nkosi never imagined she’d one day be running a drilling company,... --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-12-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-careers/ Info Hub Careers Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth CentreAt Business Partners Ltd, we recognise that our employees’ knowledge, skills and competencies are essential in the achievement of our goal to be a world-class, added-value investor in small and medium enterprises. Our main objective is to recruit the best people who experience job satisfaction, are able to grow and develop in their working environment and above all the pride of working at a world-respected organisation. OUR RECRUITMENT PROCESS Our recruitment process starts off with a short list being compiled for the job opportunity based on candidates meeting the minimum requirements for the role. The shortlisted candidates will be invited for a maximum of three interviews. Candidates that are seriously being considered will further be invited to complete a psychometric assessment (to see what this is about, please visit our service provider’s website: www. shl. com. Reference and qualification checks are also conducted. Once there is a match between the prospective employee and Business Partners Ltd, a job offer will be extended to the successful candidate (if any). Please understand that correspondence will only be with short-listed candidates, and if you do not receive a reply from us within four weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful. Your profile will be kept on our database for any other suitable positions. To view the current positions available at Business Partners Ltd, please feel free to browse our search facility on the Apply for a position page. Business Partners Ltd offers market-related remuneration plus compelling benefits.... --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-billing-accounts/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeBilling & Accounts When do you send out statements of invoices? We generate and send out statements and invoices from the 26th to 28th day of the month and you should expect to have received your account information by the last day of the month. I am not going to be able to meet my repayment obligations this month, who do I contact? Please contact your Investment Officer/ Manager as soon as possible or send an email to the relevant details listed at the bottom of the page to update us. My contact information has changed, how do I ensure the information is updated on your records? Please update your information on the Client Portal or complete the enquiry form available from the link below to provide us with updated contact information. I have not been receiving my statements, how do I fix this? Please complete the enquiry form available from the link below and provide us with updated contact information; we will ensure you receive your statements. Still have a question? Submit an EnquiryLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-general-enquiries/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeGeneral Enquiries Does Business Partners Ltd have specific entrepreneur groups that it finances? We consider all viable small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for business finance. Does Business Partners Ltd finance women entrepreneurs? Yes, we finance established entrepreneurs of all genders and to address some of the societal challenges, we put in efforts to support businesses run by female entrepreneurs. Do you finance start-ups? We finance start-ups in very exceptional cases; usually this would be a start-up started by a serial entrepreneur or by an individual with years of experience working in the industry in which they are starting the business. Does Business Partners Ltd Finance Black Entrepreneurs? Yes, we finance established entrepreneurs of all races and to address some of the societal challenges, we put in efforts to support businesses run by females and black entrepreneurs. Does Business Partners Ltd Finance White Entrepreneurs? Yes, we finance established entrepreneurs of all races. What makes Business Partners Ltd different from banks and financial institutions offering business finance? Entrepreneurs are our exclusive focus and, as such, we offer products and services specifically tailored to meet their unique needs. We have been investing in entrepreneurs since 2006 and offer both business finance and added-value solutions, catering for every step of the business journey. Our staff have in-depth knowledge of the SME sector, as well as insight into the opportunities available to and challenges facing businesses. We are a viability-based financier and... --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-hr-enquiries/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeHR Enquiries Where do you advertise available positions? We advertise all our available positions on the Career Junction website. Occasionally, we work with recruitment agencies or run recruitment drives at institutions of higher learning. Can I send you my CV for any future positions? No. We would advise you to register your CV on the Career Junction website – and continuously check the website for available positions. Where can I view available positions? To view the current positions available at Business Partners Limited, please visit: https://www. careerjunction. co. za What can I expect from your recruitment process? Our recruitment process starts off with a short list being compiled for the job opportunity based on candidates meeting the minimum requirements for the role. The shortlisted candidates are invited for a maximum of three interviews. After the interviews, candidates that are being considered are then invited to complete a psychometric assessment (to see what this is about, please visit our service provider’s website: (www. shl. com). Reference and qualification checks are also conducted. Once there is a match between the prospective employee and Business Partners Ltd, a job offer is extended to the successful candidate (if any). Please understand that we communicate only be with short-listed candidates, and if you do not receive a reply from us within four weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful. Still have a question? Submit An EnquiryLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2024-06-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-media-public-relations/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeMedia & Public Relations How Do I Add My Name Or Media Platform On Your Media Mailing List? You can complete the enquiry form available from the link below and provide your key contact information and we will add you to the media mailing list. Where Can I Find Your Latest Media Statements? Our media statements available in the Info Hub section of our website. Who Can I Contact To Schedule An Interview? You can contact: Mandisa Masondo Senior Public Relations Officer w: +27 11 713 6600 | m: +27 71 272 8142 mmasondo@businesspartners. co. za Devon van der Venter Senior Public Relations Account Manager m: +27 82 529 8067 devon. vanderventer@mslgroup. comStill have a question? Submit An EnquiryLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-new-finance-enquiries/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeNew Finance Enquiries Do You Provide Grants Or Loans? We do not provide grants; we only offer business loans ranging from R500 000 to R50 million. Do You Offer Covid-19 Relief Finance? Our business finance can be used for Covid-19 relief. We offer specific Covid-19 relief finance to our existing clients. How Much Do You Offer In Business Finance? We offer business finance ranging from R500 000 to R50 million to viable small and medium enterprises. We consider property transactions up to R30 million and joint venture multi tenanted properties of up to R75 million. The finance offered is tailor made to suit the circumstances of each applicant. How Much Interest Do You Charge? There is no set interest charge in place; each transaction is priced to offer a fair deal. We tailor our finance to meet your business’s unique needs and negotiate pricing and repayment terms with you. Ready to Apply? Apply NowStill have a question? Submit An EnquiryLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-09-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/faqs-subscribe/ Contact Us Billing & AccountsGeneral EnquiriesHR EnquiriesMedia & Public RelationsNew Finance EnquiriesProperty TenantsOffice LocationsSubscribeUnsubscribeNewsletter Subscription By completing the form available from the subscribe button below, you will receive our monthly newsletter with articles on the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector eco-system and entrepreneur stories. We look forward to staying in touch. SubscribeLet us help grow your business. --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2025-11-24 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/about-us-corporate-centre/ Corporate Centre Corporate Services and Registered Office PHYSICAL ADDRESS 37 West Street Houghton Estate Johannesburg, 2198 South Africa POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 7780 Johannesburg, 2000 South Africa T +27 11 713 6600 F +27 11 713 6650 COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER 1981/000918/06 Our Leadership Team OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS N Martin (Chairperson) J Lang (Managing Director) CW Ceasar RA Dolphin (Executive Director) O Kotze M Lubbe N Makanda NS Mbatha L Mdluli SST Ngcobo HE Tshivhase A van Sittert NJ Williams HONORARY PATRON JP Rupert OUR EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM Jeremy Lang (Managing Director) David Morobe (Executive General Manager) Gugu Mjadu (Executive General Manager: Marketing) Kgomotso Ramoenyane (Executive General Manager: Human Resources) Marjan Gerbrands (Company Secretary and Corporate Legal Counsel) Rayna Dolphin (Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer) Stanton Naidoo (Executive General Manager: Property Management Services) Veroshen Naidoo (Chief Investment Officer) B-BBEE Rating Business Partners Limited has been verified by Empowerdex, an accredited verified B-BBEE rating agency, in order to obtain our B-BBEE score based on our March 2025 financial and operational results. Given Business Partners Limited’s B-BBEE score, a Level 1 Contributor status conferring a score of 99,42 percent and the classification as a Value-Adding Enterprise; any enterprise can claim 135% as B-BBEE Procurement of the value procured from Business Partners Limited. Please click here to find a copy of the B-BBEE certificate. The Business Partners Limited Client Service Charter We always strive to delight our clients with exceptional service. Our Charter is our promise to you, our client, that we... --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2025-03-04 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/business-funding/ Our Application Process Application Steps We aim to be as quick as possible in giving you a response to your application. You can expect to undergo the following steps in your application process: Continue to applicationStep 1 You complete our application assessment online. Step 2 We conduct an initial assessment and provide you with an in-principle response. Step 3 If your application meets the minimum requirements, we invite you to complete our finance application. Step 4 We conduct due diligence. This process may involve you submitting additional documents e. g. business permits or municipal rates clearance certificate. Step 5 We structure the financing terms including pricing and negotiate with you. Once we reach an agreement, we obtain approval from internal approval committees. Step 6 We provide you with feedback regarding your approval. If your application has our investment committee’s approval, we prepare legal documentation for signature. Step 7 We disburse funds to you according to agreed terms. Step 8 You repay the loan according to agreed terms. --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-non-financial-services/ Non-financialServices Our added-value services provide an integrated solution for you, catering for all aspects of your business needs. These include consulting and mentorship services, offered through a database of highly skilled business and industry specialists, as well as property broking and management services offered through our Property Management Services Division. Technical Assistance Programme Many business failures can be attributed to financial, management and reporting factors that can ordinarily be addressed through mentorship and technical assistance support throughout a business’s life cycle. It is for this reason we provide technical assistance through expert consultants to help business owners navigate the many challenges they face in their business journey and close the skills gap that may exist within a business. Through this Technical Assistance Programme, implemented with the support of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), we provide access to the skills and support a business owner needs, when they need it. Criteria The Technical Assistance Programme is only available to existing and new Business Partners Ltd clients and the cost of the services offered is charged at a zero-interest rate. Technical assistance is coupled to the finance deal, repayable over the term of the said finance deal. The Technical assistance funding may not exceed 30% of the original finance received from Business Partners Ltd. Note: If you are not a Business Partners Ltd client, please consider our Mentorship Support Service for support. Key Areas of Support General business technical assistance and consulting This covers advice and assistance with basic... --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2025-12-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-business-finance/ SME Finance Solution Business Finance The core of our focus is providing you with finance for your formal business. We structure unique, individualised financing solutions using shareholder loans, equity, royalties and term loans – or any combination of these. We pride ourselves on having developed a range of finance products offering maximum flexibility to suit your specific needs. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundBusiness Finance We provide business finance ranging from R500 000 to R50 million to established entrepreneurs with a viable formal business. Finance can be used for expansion, working capital, equipment, takeovers, property, franchises, property finance for owner occupied businesses, revamps, or management buy-outs. Our Financing Criteria We only finance viable formally registered small and medium enterprises. We only provide finance between R500 000 and R50 million. Each application is considered on its merits and on the potential profitability of the business. See below for a list of businesses we do not finance. What We Assess For Our first assessment is based on the cash flow viability and potential of the business, the product/service and its market acceptability, market size, the gearing of the business – debt to capital ratio of the business which influences its ability to exist and grow, the business’ track record, the stage of its development and medium to long-term profit potential, technical aspects, location of the business. This makes us different from most traditional financiers, particularly banks, who focus on security (the extent of the owner’s equity and... --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2025-12-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-property-finance/ SME Finance Solution Property Finance The core of our focus is providing you with finance for your formal business. We structure unique, individualised financing solutions using shareholder loans, equity, royalties and term loans – or any combination of these. We pride ourselves on having developed a range of finance products offering maximum flexibility to suit your specific needs. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundProperty Finance Video on why you should own your business premisesUp To 100% Commercial Property Finance Our Property Fund caters to established entrepreneurs with a viable business who want to refinance or purchase their own premises, but may have limited capital or security to contribute, or may not want to compromise the business’ cash resources for the deposit. We also finance Residential property developments, Properties for student accommodation and Commercial property developments. You should choose our commercial property finance because: In most cases, conventional financiers require a cash deposit before considering financing a property deal. The deposit amount depends on the risk appetite of the financier and deposits of up to 50% may be required. We allow the business owner a choice of different financing options and can structure the deal by advancing up to 110% of the financing required, subject to terms and conditions. Our Financing Criteria The underlying business must be proven to be viable and been in existence for no less than two years. The business should have a sound financial track record. The business must occupy at least... --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2025-12-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/services-property-joint-venture-fund/ SME Finance Solution Property Joint Venture Fund The core of our focus is providing you with finance for your formal business. We structure unique, individualised financing solutions using shareholder loans, equity, royalties and term loans – or any combination of these. We pride ourselves on having developed a range of finance products offering maximum flexibility to suit your specific needs. Business FinanceProperty FinanceProperty Joint Venture FundAsset FinanceShort Term FinanceBasadi-Women Growth FundProperty Joint Venture Fund Video on why you should own your business premisesUp To 100% Commercial Property Finance Our Property Joint Venture Fund provides finance to established entrepreneurs looking to add multi- tenanted properties to their investment portfolio. We do this because we understand that multi-tenanted properties provide both capital appreciation and a rental income. We co-invest in multi-tenanted property projects mainly in two instances: When a potential investor (established entrepreneur) is unable or unwilling to invest the full deposit (equity) required by a commercial lending institution. Where a viable property investment has been over-geared and needs a restructuring of the existing debt, converting debt finance to equity finance. Our Property Joint Venture Fund Criteria Property investments in sustainable areas offering good growth and/or return on investment, preferably in metropolitan areas. Retail, industrial, and commercial multi-tenanted properties with a value of between R2 million and R120 million. Properties that require reconfiguration or upgrades. Cut-up-and-sell properties and industrial leasebacks. The prospective property investor may choose to either have an active role or be a passive investor. Property Types We Do Not... --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2025-09-15 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/our-clients/ Our Clients We pride ourselves on tailoring our finance to offer you a fair deal and meet your unique needs as a business owner. It’s not surprising that over 40% of our business per year is with existing clients. Click here to read more about our clients. MARNEWICKE LOUBSER (Co-owner) Tiny Tots Academy Industry: Education “We went from bank to bank, literally all the major banks... . and eventually we heard about Business Partners, we got in contact with them, the meeting was set up literally within a week. The support and services we received from Business Partners is mainly obviously the financing of the properties, then we also got further financing of the expansion, development, and the creation of our playgrounds. ” Watch VideoSIBUSISWE ZETHU BUTHELEZI (Co-director) Scale Printers Industry: Printing & Packaging “Through Business Partners, we secured asset financing which allowed us to acquire key machinery essential for the expansion into the packaging sector. What we value most about working with Business Partners Limited is that they were eager to partner with us and took time to understand our unique business requirements needs that we have. ” Watch VideoERIKA & SAKKIE THEUNISSEN Fundamental Faculty Industry: Education "The support that we received from Business Partners Limited was property finance that enabled us to expand our preschool facilities. What truly set them apart was their honesty, integrity, and personal approach. They offered fair and realistic repayment terms, making the process manageable. It’s been a truly rewarding partnership. " Watch VideoERIC... --- - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2023-09-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/info-hub-media-releases/ Info Hub MediaReleases Media ReleasesBusiness TipsClient StoriesCareersGrowth CentreFaiz Hartley2025-10-16T10:55:47+02:00The weakest link in a business’s computer system is not where you think it is The number one threat in the online security of businesses in Read More >BPL Admin2025-10-13T16:01:13+02:00SA’s economic drivers: 15 business owners vie for the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year® title As South Africa grapples with modest growth and high unemployment, entrepreneurs Read More >Amogelang Montane2025-10-13T13:57:19+02:00Stronger minds, stronger businesses: Why entrepreneurs need mental mentors Running a business is often portrayed as a path to independence Read More >Veroshen Naidoo2025-10-06T14:02:43+02:00Infrastructure: the missing link in South Africa’s SME growth story As South Africa marks Transport Month, the country’s infrastructure challenges continue Read More >BPL Admin2025-09-17T11:00:26+02:00Local is lekker: the business case for going local this Heritage Day Entrepreneurs who source and make local products often feel like they Read More >BPL Admin2025-08-22T10:29:47+02:00Women’s Month: celebrating progress, inspiring possibility When René Botha, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited, reflects Read More >Gugu Mjadu2025-08-08T11:38:24+02:00Bridging the gender finance gap in South African entrepreneurship New research from Mastercard reveals that 57% of South African women Read More >David Morobe2025-07-28T09:32:26+02:00Entrepreneur of the Year® Awards now open for entries SA entrepreneurs are rising beyond their roots, but growth demands support Read More >David Morobe2025-07-11T10:21:48+02:00Beyond 67 minutes: SMEs hold the key to lasting community upliftment Did you know that South Africa has around 3 million small Read More >BPL Admin2025-07-08T14:16:24+02:00SA entrepreneurs are rising beyond their roots, but growth demands support SME confidence is climbing in 2025, with more business... --- - Published: 2023-02-14 - Modified: 2023-09-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/about-us-our-heritage/ Our Heritage Over 41 Years Of Financing Entrepreneurs Our Story Africa and the world, needs more business owners – especially those who start-up, establish and grow SMEs. Research has proven that entrepreneurial SMEs are very effective at stimulating economic growth, generating wealth and creating jobs – all of which are required for us to successfully combat unemployment and poverty which afflicts much of the world. To encourage more people to pursue entrepreneurship as a noble career, we must honour and celebrate entrepreneurs as role models – the true heroes of economic society who, often against all odds, generate wealth for themselves and their families and create jobs for many – and we must champion their cause. This is what we strive to do at BUSINESS/PARTNERS in South Africa and other selected African countries where we operate, namely Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda and Uganda. Our History Our story started in 1979 at a business conference in downtown Johannesburg. The late Dr Anton Rupert – egged on by his son, Johann – proposed the idea for a joint venture between the public and private sectors to finance and support SMEs. In 1981 the Small Business Development Corporation Ltd (SBDC) was established, with both the public and private sectors having equal shareholding. The main role of the SBDC was to provide investment capital and business support to small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). These beneficiary businesses could be a start-up, in the process of expansion, or one without access to capital markets. In... --- - Published: 2021-10-11 - Modified: 2022-06-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/whistleblower-hotline/ Business Partners International Ethics and Whistleblower hotline One of our company values is integrity, which means that our actions should always be consistent and reflect ethical, honest and transparent behaviour. Furthermore, we should respect all individuals regardless of race, gender or religion. To ensure and track adherence to the integrity value, Business Partners International has an Ethics and Whistleblower Hotline that serves as a mechanism for employees, clients, shareholders and the public to bring any unethical practices to the attention of management. To protect the whistle-blower, the Business Partners International Ethics and Whistleblower Hotline acts as an independent conduit between management, employees and stakeholders. It is independently operated by the audit firm, Deloitte. All information is treated confidentially and the anonymity of the whistle-blower is always protected. To allow us to address the complaints reported, we receive a re gular analysis of the call and email complaints and independent investigations are launched where necessary. Please use this opportunity to report any unethical behaviour, theft, fraud or related activity within our company. How to use the Ethics and Whistleblowing Hotline Step 1 Dial the number listed below under you country, or email the information through to the Business Partners Ethics and Whistleblowing Hotline at bpl@tip-offs. com. Step 2 You may choose to remain anonymous. Step 3 Provide full details in respect of the fraudulent, corrupt or unethical practice to the call operator/in your email: Who was involved doing what? What has happened? How was it done and how often was it... --- - Published: 2021-08-17 - Modified: 2021-09-14 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/external-privacy-policy/ Business Partners Limited External Privacy Policy 1. THE PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT 1. 1. BUSINESS/PARTNERS is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information. 1. 2. This privacy policy describes how we collect and use personal information about you during and after your relationship with us, in accordance with the requirements of section 18 of the Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013 (“POPIA”) (also commonly known as a section 18 notice). 1. 3. BUSINESS/PARTNERS is a “responsible party”. This means that we are responsible for deciding how we hold and use personal information about you. We are required under data protection legislation to notify you of the information contained in this privacy notice. 1. 4. This notice applies to current and former clients, directors, stakeholders, applicants for employment and independent contractors of BUSINESS/PARTNERS (“Data Subjects”), including interested clients and interested stakeholders. 1. 5. Not all of the sections in the notice will be relevant to everyone. The notice is intended to provide details of all the processing activities that we undertake and therefore the mere listing of an activity does not mean that we are processing your personal information in this manner and for these purposes. 1. 5. Changes to this Privacy Policy We reserve the right to update this privacy notice at any time, and we will provide you with a notice when we make any substantial updates. We will post the updated version on our website and provide the date of the latest version, which... --- - Published: 2021-07-22 - Modified: 2021-09-14 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/cookie-policy/ Business Partners Limited Cookie Policy We value your privacy and use cookies to improve your experience. 1. Purpose of the policy The purpose of this policy is to describe the cookies we use on our website, what we use them for, and how you can manage them during your visit to our website. 2. What are cookies? Cookies are small text files stored on your device by the website you are visiting. The cookies assist the website to recall information about your device and usage of the website. We use this information to make your visit to our site efficient and pleasant. 3. When do we use cookies? We use cookies which identify the user of a device for lawful purposes only including where the law permits or requires it and if the user has consented to it. 4. Which cookies can be found on our website? We make use of the following types of cookies: i. Strictly necessary cookies which are necessary for the site to function, these cookies are always active and you cannot opt-out of these cookies. ii. Performance cookies allow us to analyse site usage to evaluate and improve its performance. iii. Functional cookies to provide a better user experience on the site, such as by assessing connections with specific content e. g. Business Tips to allow us to continue offering you more relevant content. iv. 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INFORMATION WE COLLECT AND RECEIVE We collect and receive information about you in the following ways: 2. 1 Information you give us This includes any information that you provide to us directly: when you sign-up to obtain information about our products or to utilise our services; by filling in forms on our websites, or those provided to you; when you enter a competition, promotion or complete a survey; by posting comments or content on our social media pages; or when you contact us or we contact you... --- - Published: 2021-03-11 - Modified: 2023-09-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/email-disclaimer/ Business Partners Limited Email Disclaimer The full text of the disclaimers and warnings appearing below are legally incorporated into all electronic mail messages in terms of the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act, 25 of 2002, and is binding on the recipient and any other persons or entities that have sight of the email. Set out below are terms and conditions applicable to any e-mail message or attachment which Business Partners Limited (BUSINESS/PARTNERS), or its affiliates and subsidiaries, may send you (referred to as “the communication” or “the message”). 1. Any electronic mail and attachments transmitted with it that you receive from BUSINESS/PARTNERS employees is subject to this e-mail disclaimer. 2. The e-mail and any attachment transmitted with it may contain information which is confidential and intended solely for the use of the intended recipient or entity of the e-mail. If you are not the intended recipient of the e-mail (or such authorised representative): 2. 1 Please notify the intended recipient of the e-mail immediately by return e-mail, fax or telephone and delete the mail from your system. 2. 2 Furthermore, you may not print, store, forward or copy this message or any part thereof or disclose or cause information in this message to be disclosed to any other person. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action upon the contents of such information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. 3. The information contained in any message is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the... --- - Published: 2021-01-25 - Modified: 2023-11-03 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/about-us-who-we-are/ Who We Are We’re one of the leading business loan providers for viable small to medium businesses in the world. We provide loan finance ranging from R500 000 to R50 million to all business owners who have a viable formal business and require finance for expansion, working capital, equipment, takeovers, property, franchises or management buy-outs. We operate from South Africa, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda and Uganda. Who is Business Partners Ltd? Watch this video and learn more about us Watch VideoWhy Do we call ourselves Business Partners Ltd? For the simple reason that we are invested in seeing business owners succeed. That’s why we have been the business financier of choice for many business owners for over three decades. Our name expresses our commitment to the relationship with the business owners we serve. Not only are we committed to providing loan finance solely for viable small to medium businesses, we also bind ourselves to support business owners with our knowledge and value-added services every step of the way. Because your success is our success. Isn’t that what you’d expect from a business financier? Watch video to get a better understanding of why we call ourselves Business Partners Ltd Watch VideoBusiness Owners Are Our Exclusive Focus Our core focus is you, the business owner. We have spent over three decades adjusting our products and services to boost the success of the business owners we support. We know that by investing in you, we’re also fuelling the growth of our economy and... --- - Published: 2020-12-15 - Modified: 2025-07-14 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/ Short Term FinanceQuick finance for your short-term working capital needsGet Short-Term Finance from R250 000 - R750 000 and repay us over 18 months. Apply NowAsset FinanceFinance your business equipment with us. Get Asset Finance from R250 000 to R5 million to buy business equipment ranging from engineering to manufacturing equipment. Apply NowBEE RatingWe are a Level 1 BBBEE contributorRead More Who We Are We are one of the leading loan providers for viable SMEs in the world. Since 1981, business owners have trusted us to unlock business value in over 71 000 business finance transactions. We’ve approved finance to the tune of R20 billion+ to established entrepreneurs. The Global SME Finance Awards named us the 2019 Gold winner in the SME Bank of the Year – Africa. More About UsWhat We Do 2. Property Finance We’re one of a handful of financiers who provide business owners with up to 100% in commercial property finance. Our property finance caters to established entrepreneurs with a viable business who want to refinance or purchase their own premises, as well as established entrepreneurs looking to add a property component to their investment portfolio. Read MoreWhat We Do 4. Mentorship and Technical Assistance Our Mentorship Support Services and Technical Assistance harness the business expertise, skills and wisdom of senior business and professional people – often retired executives, making their services available to entrepreneurs in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), at a fee commensurate with the complexity of the entrepreneur’s business development needs. Read MoreWatch... --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2026-03-03 - Modified: 2026-03-03 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-sa-smes-can-take-control-of-their-cash-flow-and-build-financial-resilience/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Cash flow remains one of the toughest challenges for South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Not only does it consistently rank as a top concern in the Business Partners Limited SME Confidence Index, but a global Xero survey also found that 72% of local SMEs were forced to draw on personal savings to survive in the past year. While some factors are beyond the control of business owners, Megan Dedekind, area manager at Business Partners Limited, says proactive financial management can go a long way towards alleviating cash flow pressures. “Rising input costs, late customer payments, and broader economic uncertainty are realities that entrepreneurs cannot easily change. However, many of the most damaging cash flow crises stem from issues that are within their control. ” Among these issues are poor budgeting practices, inadequate planning for seasonal fluctuations, or simply not keeping a close enough eye on the numbers. To ensure these don’t catch you off-guard, Dedekind outlines six best practices for strengthening financial oversight and ensuring long-term sustainability. Budget with discipline A robust budget is the foundation of good financial management. Dedekind advises business owners to set realistic budgets that account not only for day-to-day operating expenses, but also for less predictable costs such as equipment breakdowns or regulatory changes. “Your budget should serve as a roadmap, giving you visibility into both fixed and variable costs,” she says. “This makes it easier to spot when spending is creeping higher than planned allowing SMEs to take corrective action quickly. ”... --- - Published: 2026-03-03 - Modified: 2026-03-03 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-sa-smes-can-take-control-of-their-cash-flow-and-build-financial-resilience-2/ - Categories: Business Tips Cash flow remains one of the toughest challenges for South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Not only does it consistently rank as a top concern in the Business Partners Limited SME Confidence Index, but a global Xero survey also found that 72% of local SMEs were forced to draw on personal savings to survive in the past year. While some factors are beyond the control of business owners, Megan Dedekind, area manager at Business Partners Limited, says proactive financial management can go a long way towards alleviating cash flow pressures. “Rising input costs, late customer payments, and broader economic uncertainty are realities that entrepreneurs cannot easily change. However, many of the most damaging cash flow crises stem from issues that are within their control. ” Among these issues are poor budgeting practices, inadequate planning for seasonal fluctuations, or simply not keeping a close enough eye on the numbers. To ensure these don’t catch you off-guard, Dedekind outlines six best practices for strengthening financial oversight and ensuring long-term sustainability. Budget with discipline A robust budget is the foundation of good financial management. Dedekind advises business owners to set realistic budgets that account not only for day-to-day operating expenses, but also for less predictable costs such as equipment breakdowns or regulatory changes. “Your budget should serve as a roadmap, giving you visibility into both fixed and variable costs,” she says. “This makes it easier to spot when spending is creeping higher than planned allowing SMEs to take corrective action quickly. ”... --- - Published: 2026-02-19 - Modified: 2026-02-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/proactive-succession-planning-key-to-leaving-a-lasting-legacy/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases When building a business from the ground up, founders are often asked about the legacy they want to leave to future generations. The reality, however, is that the average lifespan of a public company is just 15 years – roughly one generation. This is why Sudir Sahadeo, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited, believes succession planning is about so much more than just naming a replacement. “It’s about grooming future leaders, formalising governance, and ensuring that financial and ownership structures support a smooth transition. Even successful businesses with competent new leaders can falter when their founder steps away. ” In this sense, a well-structured succession plan protects more than just the owner’s investment; it safeguards the entire ecosystem around the business. Employees rely on the company for their livelihoods, clients depend on its services, suppliers need its stability and local communities often depend and benefit from the business. Without a clear plan, companies can face leadership vacuums, internal conflict or even collapse when a key decision-maker retires, passes away or exits unexpectedly. Sahadeo adds that proactive planning can also help unlock growth. “When ownership transitions are planned well, it gives the next generation the confidence and structure to innovate. It also reassures lenders and investors that the business is stable and sustainable. ” From legacy to leadership A compelling example of successful succession planning can be seen in the story of Human Scale Printers (HSP), a Durban-based printing and packaging private business founded in 1986 by Geoffrey Bongani Buthelezi.... --- - Published: 2026-02-19 - Modified: 2026-02-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/why-sa-smes-need-to-hire-smart-in-this-economy-not-fast/ - Categories: Business Tips South Africa’s current labour market presents a paradox that many business owners know all too well. On the one hand, the country’s official unemployment rate remains above 30% - one of the highest in the world. Yet on the other hand, employers consistently report difficulty in finding candidates with the right skills, experience and cultural fit. Theoretically, high unemployment should make hiring easier. CVs flood in, interview slots fill up, and vacancies can be filled relatively quickly. In practice, however, this can increase the risk of a poor hire, as businesses struggle to distinguish genuine capability from desperation, inflated CVs or misaligned expectations. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the cost of getting it wrong is significant. This is because, unlike larger corporates, SMEs rarely have surplus capacity to absorb underperformance. One bad hire doesn’t just mean the job doesn’t get done; it can drain management time, disrupt team dynamics, and stifle growth. In a tough economic climate, these risks are amplified. This is why hiring smart, not fast, is so critical. Do the groundwork Importantly, a smart hiring process begins well before the first CV is reviewed. The most common mistake we see among SMEs is hiring for an immediate gap rather than a defined role and business function. Before advertising a position, business owners should be clear on what problem the hire is meant to solve, how success will be measured, and how the role fits into the business’s medium-to-long-term plan. This clarity helps avoid over-hiring or hiring... --- - Published: 2026-02-19 - Modified: 2026-02-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-beat-the-odds-in-your-first-year-of-business/ - Categories: Business Tips According to recent data from the Australian . Failure rates in South Africa are nearly double that, with 40% of new ventures failing within the first year. The truth is that South Africa’s business landscape magnifies many first-year risks. The operating environment is more volatile, resource-constrained, and structurally complex than most developed markets. Those first twelve months of running a business are also typically the most unforgiving, as you make decisions with imperfect information, test assumptions in real time, and constantly question what you thought you knew. Often, cash flow strain is the biggest early pressure point. Many entrepreneurs underestimate how long it takes for revenue to reach targeted levels. In South Africa, payment delays tend to be longer, consumer spending is more cautious, and suppliers often require upfront or early payment from new businesses. Even with a strong offering, it can take time for customers’ trust to translate into recurring revenue. Customer acquisition can also be an uphill battle. Many first-time entrepreneurs assume that customers will immediately understand what they offer, but the market rarely behaves that neatly. What you think you are selling and what customers value are often two different things. Listening carefully to customers is key to refining your value proposition before you build expensive campaigns or processes around the wrong assumptions. Another reality is operational disruption. While load shedding has eased, there are still countless external factors that impact service delivery, manufacturing schedules, stock management, and turnaround times. These issues tend to reveal themselves quickly... --- - Published: 2026-02-19 - Modified: 2026-02-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-sme-disconnect-why-are-smes-not-seeing-benefits-from-economic-uptick/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) reported a broad-based decline in confidence during the third quarter of 2025, despite a series of positive macroeconomic developments and strong optimism around the G20 Summit. This is according to the latest Business Partners Limited SME Confidence Index, which shows weakening sentiment across almost all performance indicators compared to both the previous quarter (Q2 2025) and the same period last year (Q3 2024). “Several encouraging economic signals emerged during the quarter: South Africa recorded 0,5% GDP growth, inflation expectations settled to a record low, and interest rates hit their lowest levels since 2022. Yet these improvements have not translated into stronger business sentiment,” says Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited. SMEs’ confidence levels that their businesses will grow over the next 12 months declined to 79%, down 2 percentage points (pp) quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year. Similarly, confidence that the South African economy will be conducive to business growth dropped to 64%, down 2pp from Q2 and 4pp compared to Q3 2024. Confidence in the ease of access to finance saw one of the sharper declines, falling to 61% - 6pp lower than the previous quarter and 2pp down year-on-year. Confidence in labour laws being conducive to business growth decreased to 58% (down 2pp quarter-on-quarter and 3pp year-on-year), while confidence in finding suitably skilled staff fell to 69% (down 2pp quarter-on-quarter and 1pp year-on-year). Confidence in private sector support also weakened to 54%, down 2pp both quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year. The only indicator to... --- - Published: 2026-02-17 - Modified: 2026-02-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-protect-your-business-from-the-cybercrime-surge/ - Categories: Business Tips Whether your business is experiencing its busiest period or a slowdown, one constant threat remains, the ongoing surge in cybercrime, warns Luyolo Ndinisa, IT security specialist at Business Partners Limited. Cybercriminals don’t just target your IT systems, they target people. They strike when human defenses are at their weakest. Employees may be overworked and distracted, teams may be operating with reduced supervision and enticing “too-good-to-be-true” special offers are everywhere. Luyolo says by far the most attempts at hacking a company’s IT system is by tricking a staff member to click on a link that begins a process of downloading malicious software, or by persuading staff members to divulge login details. From there, the consequences can be severe. Here are some common scams: Ransomware attacks: hackers encrypt your company’s data and demand payment, often in cryptocurrency to restore access. Most recently, hackers have been demanding an extra payment to stop them from publishing your data online, says Luyolo. Email interception scams: criminals hijack your invoicing emails and replace your banking details with theirs, diverting payments. Impersonation scams: hackers pose as your senior manager and instruct a financial manager in your business to make a fraudulent payment into their account. Account takeovers: hackers successfully convince you or your staff members to divulge your login details, often by pretending to be your bank, they can clean out your bank accounts. With the rapid rise of AI‑powered tools, this type of scam has become far more convincing and far easier for unsuspecting individuals to... --- - Published: 2026-02-17 - Modified: 2026-02-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/born-with-the-business-entrepreneur-building-a-r100-million-family-legacy/ - Categories: Client Stories Khaya Sakawuli is one of the few entrepreneurs who can claim that he is exactly the same age as his business. In the year he was born, his mother Nothusile started selling vetkoeks to the school that he would later attend in the small village close to Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape. What started as a modest vetkoek venture has grown into a thriving property business based in Pretoria and Gqeberha with assets worth nearly R60 million. Khaya’s vision is to expand the business to R100 million in assets and hand it over to the third generation of Sakawuli’s. Today, he runs Sakawuli’s Properties CC and Msinyane Investments together with his son Viwe. “We come from a very entrepreneurial family. My mother never worked for anyone else,” says Khaya, recalling how Nothusile’s vetkoek business grew into a village shop. His father Alfred, left his migrant-labour job to join the business, helping it grow further. Later Khaya’s older brother Sicelo, armed with a BCom degree transformed the shop into a supermarket. Khaya followed in Sicelo’s footsteps by studying for a BCom degree but carved his own path while Sicelo managed the family business. After completing his honours degree, Khaya gained valuable experience working in the finance division of Truworths and the operations division of Transnet, building a strong foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. Khaya then started building his own quarry business in Umtata in the early 2000s while still assisting Sicelo in growing the family business further by buying and letting... --- - Published: 2026-02-17 - Modified: 2026-02-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/local-factory-a-bulwark-against-tide-of-imports/ - Categories: Client Stories Having spent his whole life in the hair care and cosmetics industry, Shailesh Bhavanbhai knows how important it is to follow the latest fashion trends. Yet, as an entrepreneur, he also knows the power of bucking the trend. While few South African entrepreneurs dare to compete with cheap imports from the East by establishing local manufacturing, Shailesh decided to do just that. Two years ago, Shailesh invested all he had, including his almost four decades of experience and knowledge, into starting up his own small factory in Crown Mines, Johannesburg. There, with a team of 16 employees, he produces hairstyling products for his four own brands, Top Notch, Belleza, Ayur and Sage. Ironically, it was competition from China that pushed him back into manufacturing, Shailesh explains. Since 2010, he had been importing hair accessories and salon equipment for the local market. But over the years competition in the trade became increasingly fierce as Chinese traders started importing directly into South Africa. Shailesh saw that the only way to grow was to diversify into a segment less vulnerable to cheap imports. Hairstyling chemicals are mass produced in the East, but they typically follow American formulas that are not as suited to local hair types. Drawing on his lifelong knowledge of South African local hair care since he was a child, Shailesh saw an opportunity and seized it. Shailesh’s journey in the hair-care business began at his parents’ barber shop and hair-care business. Straight after school, he went to work in the... --- - Published: 2026-02-17 - Modified: 2026-02-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/new-fund-unlocks-finance-for-women-entrepreneurs/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Business Partners Limited has launched a new fund designed to support women-owned businesses that struggle to access finance through traditional finance institutions. The fund launches at the right time as a recent survey revealed that South Africa’s pool of female entrepreneurs is shrinking as they contend with a hostile business environment. The Basadi-Women Growth Fund, valued at R90 million, targets formal small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) with at least 50 percent female ownership and with an annual turnover of less than R20 million. Eligible women entrepreneurs can apply for loans ranging from R250 000 to R5 million. The finance can be used for property acquisition, working capital, equipment or asset finance, acquisitions or takeovers, as replacement finance or to buy a viable start-up franchise. René Botha, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited, says the fund aims to bridge major gaps in the support for female entrepreneurs in South Africa. Research from Women Entrepreneurship in SA Report shows that only 4,1 percent of women start businesses compared to 7,9 percent of men, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions. Women entrepreneurs who do start their own businesses face stronger headwinds than their male counterparts. Research shows that more women cite lack of access to finance as a major hurdle than male entrepreneurs. In addition, family responsibilities and lower profitability also hit women entrepreneurs harder than men. As a result, women-led businesses grow at a significantly slower pace. According to René, only 4,9 percent of women-owned ventures reach a headcount... --- - Published: 2026-02-05 - Modified: 2026-02-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/should-your-business-offer-buy-now-pay-later/ - Categories: Business Tips Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is undoubtedly one of the fastest-growing developments in South Africa’s payment landscape. While card payments remain the preferred option for online purchases, the use of BNPL products reportedly doubled between 2024 and 2025. According to the same report, BNPL is the most requested new payment method, with 34% of consumers asking merchants to implement it. At a practical level, BNPL allows customers to purchase goods by paying a small amount upfront and settling the balance in instalments over a short payment cycle – usually weeks – without interest if payments are made on time. Providers such as Payflex, PayJustNow and Happy Pay generally pay the merchant in full upfront, while taking on the responsibility of collecting instalments from the customer. This is a key distinction from traditional credit models and one of the main reasons BNPL has gained traction so quickly. To understand its appeal, it is useful to look at what came before. Until relatively recently, retailers – particularly in sectors such as electronics and furniture – relied on 12-, 24- or even 36-month instalment options to make higher-ticket items more accessible. While effective, these longer-term credit arrangements often involved lengthy approval processes and higher barriers to entry for consumers. BNPL, by contrast, is designed for simplicity and short-term affordability. For small businesses, offering BNPL could potentially reduce cart abandonment, increase average order values and open access to new customers. In a tough economic environment, consumers are increasingly cautious with cash flow, and spreading... --- - Published: 2026-02-05 - Modified: 2026-02-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/your-first-hire-matters-more-than-you-think-heres-how-to-get-it-right/ - Categories: Business Tips Bringing your first employee on board is a major milestone for any small business, but it’s also one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make. In South Africa, the cost of a bad hire can be surprisingly steep. When you factor in job advertising, hours spent screening and interviewing, onboarding and training, wasted salary, and the expense of finding a replacement, a single unsuccessful hire can easily cost tens of thousands of rands. With tight budgets and little margin for error, small business owners have a lot riding on their first hire. Get it right, and you create capacity, expertise and momentum. Get it wrong, and you risk wasted resources, eroded morale and a costly restart. Here’s how to manage your first hire thoughtfully and practically. Clearly define the role before advertising The foundation of any successful hire is a well-defined role. Too often, small business owners post vague job ads because they’re unsure exactly what they need. Before you list a position, write a job description that spells out the core responsibilities, required skills and expected outcomes. Consider the tasks you need help with and how success will be measured. This clarity not only helps candidates understand the job but also guides you during interviews and onboarding. A clear role definition also makes it easier to assess cultural fit and expectations. Plan for the real cost of hiring Hiring costs extend way beyond salary. In South Africa, the cost to onboard a new employee can start around R30 000... --- - Published: 2026-01-19 - Modified: 2026-01-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-values-driven-business-why-culture-matters-even-in-a-small-team/ - Categories: Business Tips Research indicates that employees who feel a strong connection to their organisation’s culture are four times more likely to be engaged at work and almost six times more likely to recommend their workplace to others. For a small business hoping to scale, this matters even more. In the early stages, every employee has a significant impact on performance, morale and reputation. Culture is not something that emerges later once the business is bigger; it is shaped from the very first hire and becomes harder to change as the size of the team grows. Simply put, culture is how work gets done when no one is watching. It’s how decisions are made, how customers are treated, how mistakes are handled and how pressure is dealt with. In a small team, these behaviours are highly visible and quickly reinforced. A value-driven culture can become a competitive advantage, while a weak or inconsistent one can quietly undermine growth. The foundation of a value-driven business is clarity. As a business owner, you need to be explicit about what you stand for and what you will not tolerate. Values should go beyond generic statements like integrity or excellence and be translated into practical behaviours. For example, if transparency is a core value, what does that mean in day-to-day operations? Does it involve sharing financial realities with staff, being open about challenges, or explaining the reasoning behind decisions? When values are clearly defined and lived, employees understand what is expected and how they can contribute meaningfully.... --- - Published: 2025-12-19 - Modified: 2026-01-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/brainstorming-your-hidden-weapon-for-business-success/ - Categories: Business Tips It’s been a tough year for many South African entrepreneurs. A 2025 study revealed that more than half (52,8%) of the country’s small businesses are contracting, trading with difficulty, or at risk of closure. If you find yourself in a difficult trading position or staring down the possibility of liquidation, it can feel as if you’re stuck and unable to shift direction. But recovery is possible. One of the most underrated tools to turn things around is collaborative, structured brainstorming – a process that helps uncover practical and innovative turnaround solutions to reposition your business. At its core, brainstorming is a disciplined method for unlocking innovation by using the collective intelligence of a group to generate and test ideas. There are even experts in the market which assist with this process as we have with the Business Partners Limited technical assistance programme. Research consistently shows that collaboration drives innovation, but brainstorming goes one step further by challenging assumptions and creating the conditions that spark practical, workable solutions that individuals would not produce on their own. This matters even more when a business is struggling. Business decline often results from a combination of issues rather than a single event: slipping sales, cash flow pressure, operational bottlenecks, weak customer communication or outdated processes. No single person sees the full picture, but different people see different parts of it. Brainstorming brings those fragments together and helps to identify the root causes. To be effective, the session must be anchored in facts – tangible... --- - Published: 2025-12-19 - Modified: 2026-01-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-manage-your-business-online-reputation-this-festive-season/ - Categories: Business Tips As we step into the festive season, it is a perfect time to reflect on what truly matters for small businesses. A strong business’ reputation has always mattered, but in today’s digital environment it can determine whether a potential customer commits or moves on to a competitor. Research consistently shows that consumers rely heavily on online information before committing to a purchase, and for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), this creates both opportunity and risk. A strong digital reputation can amplify your credibility far beyond your physical footprint, while a neglected one can quietly undermine years of hard work. For South African entrepreneurs, this matters even more. Local consumers are price-conscious, cautious and selective, especially in tougher economic conditions. Many rely on online reviews, social media comments and search results to validate trust before spending their money. If what they find online is inaccurate, outdated, inconsistent or unflattering, it directly affects your ability to win business, even if you offer excellent products or services offline. The starting point is understanding that your online reputation extends far beyond your own website or social media pages. It includes what customers say about you on platforms like Google, HelloPeter and Facebook, any articles or mentions in the media, the visibility of your business on search engines, and even the personal online behaviour of founders or staff linked to the brand. Managing this deliberately is not optional; it is a core part of modern business hygiene and the festive season is the best time... --- - Published: 2025-12-02 - Modified: 2025-12-05 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/breaking-barriers-business-partners-limited-launches-new-basadi-women-growth-fund-to-close-the-gender-financing-gap/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases The GEM SA Special Report: Women’s Entrepreneurship in South Africa Report (2024) reveals a concerning trend: the rate of women entrepreneurs exiting their businesses is higher than those starting and running businesses. The key driver of this attrition is access to finance - 21,5 percent of women entrepreneurs cite difficulty securing funding as the primary reason for business failure, compared to 17,2 percent of their male counterparts. This widening gender gap, particularly as businesses mature, points to an urgent need for targeted support to help South African women-owned SMEs to scale up and achieve sustained success. To address this challenge, Business Partners Limited has today launched a R90 million Basadi-Women Growth Fund. The Fund provides tailored business finance ranging from R250 000 to R5 million, specifically designed to support women with viable formal small and medium businesses, who may not qualify for finance through traditional channels. René Botha, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited, says South African women experience higher rates of unemployment and lower education levels than their male counterparts. “This inequality is mirrored in entrepreneurial activity where the percentage of men who own established businesses in the country – 7,9 percent – is nearly double that of women at 4,1 percent according to the Women Entrepreneurship in SA Report. ” Implications of limited access The Women Entrepreneurship in SA Report further highlights that the leading reason entrepreneurs exit their businesses is lack of profitability – impacting both men and women, though more severely for women (34,4 percent... --- - Published: 2025-11-26 - Modified: 2025-11-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/an-entrepreneurs-guide-to-spotting-market-gaps-that-matter/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Entrepreneurship and passion are somewhat synonymous, but passion alone is not enough to be successful in business. The most successful business owners are those who align their passion with a genuine market need – finding the sweet spot between what you love to do and what others are willing to pay for. Friedrich Meisenholl regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited says this alignment is what separates sustainable businesses from fleeting fly by night operations. “Entrepreneurs who build around something they genuinely care about tend to be more motivated, innovative, and resilient, even when faced with economic uncertainty or fierce competition. This passion, however, needs to resonate with an audience. If it doesn’t, you’ve got a hobby, not a business. ” Find the gaps that matter Whether you are starting a new business or adding a new product line to your existing business, instead of chasing trends, Meisenholl encourages business owners to look for gaps. “Rather than hopping on a trend that will likely die down, find a problem that needs solving. The key here is to look for pain points or inefficiencies others have overlooked and then apply your unique skills and enthusiasm to address them. ” One way to start is by looking at your own frustrations as a consumer. If something feels inefficient or inconvenient to you, chances are others feel the same. Entrepreneurs who can turn that frustration into a practical solution often gain first-mover advantage in niche markets. Prove your own point Before diving in,... --- - Published: 2025-11-24 - Modified: 2025-11-24 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/africas-growing-demand-for-south-african-businesses-takes-centre-stage-during-global-entrepreneurship-week/ - Categories: Business Tips As Global Entrepreneurship Week shines a spotlight on innovation and cross-border opportunities, Africa’s economic momentum is impossible to ignore. With the growth of the overall African economy continuing to outpace South Africa with a solid two percentage points higher, the demand from across the continent for local goods and services will only grow significantly. Even businesses who have given little thought about trading beyond South Africa’s borders will soon find queries and orders from neighbouring countries, particularly via online platforms. According to a recent report, logistics companies have seen a 14 percent year-on-year increase in cross-border e-commerce volumes. Joel Andrews, regional investment manager for Business Partners International, notes that major infrastructure developments are not only opening up large parts of the continent to economic growth, however the construction of roads, railroads, telecommunications towers and power lines is not only driving growth but creating an unprecedented demand for goods, services and engineering expertise. Materials and technical skills are in great demand, as are goods and services to the flourishing and growing tourism and hospitality sector across Africa. Joel says food and drinks are to a large degree produced locally, but other consumables of the tourism sector, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning products, linen and uniforms will continue to be in high demand. Across Africa, businesses and government institution are embracing digital transformation, creating significant opportunities for South African companies in IT, electronics and related services. The relative scarcity of IT skilled professionals on the continent makes this an especially... --- - Published: 2025-11-24 - Modified: 2025-11-24 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/educational-entrepreneurs-success-a-bulwark-against-the-forces-that-tried-to-destroy-him/ - Categories: Client Stories It’s rare for the story of a single entrepreneur to highlight on one of South Africa’s greatest obstacles to progress and at the same time embody the ultimate solution to the problem. Nyangani Tshabalala was still a student in applied mathematics and physics at the Nelson Mandela University when he started a programme to help struggling learners who failed their matric exams with a second chance. The need was so great and the tutoring that he offered so effective that the programme blossomed into a sustainable and thriving business in the Izinyoka Township in Gqeberha, until the local mafia destroyed it. What began as gangsters posing as protectors soon escalated into three break-ins in short succession, followed by a devastating tragedy, the fatal shooting of Nyangani’s younger brother. The loss shattered the Tshabalala family and destroyed the project. A lesser entrepreneur, especially someone with a maths and physics degree, would have given up and pursued a safe corporate career, but the tragedy forged Nyangani’s passion for teaching into a steely determination to fight the forces of destruction in South Africa. Nyangani closed operation in Gqeberha and returned home to the Vaal, Gauteng where he was born and raised by his mother, who was a single parent and a domestic worker. This time, Nyangani forged an alliance with the Vaal University of Technology, and later set up a branch for his business, called the Institute for Applied Science and Commerce (Ifasco) in Vanderbijlpark and Braamfontein, selecting the locations carefully for safety... --- - Published: 2025-11-24 - Modified: 2025-11-24 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/resilience-on-the-short-the-inspiring-comeback-of-crawfords-beach-lodge/ - Categories: Client Stories When Mark Crawford looks out over the buildings of Crawfords Beach Lodge nestled among lush coastal vegetation above the beautiful Cintsa beach near East London, he sees more than a resort, he sees his family’s remarkable legacy. He remembers where the labourer’s cottages stood that his grandfather converted into self-catering units after buying a derelict chicken farm in the 1970s. He remembers the Wild Coast-style thatched houses that his parents built, as well as all the modern facilities that he has added since he joined the family business in 2010. “This place has always reflected the personality of each generation that ran it. It is not just another beach resort, it has a personality and history,” says Mark. One of the most remarkable aspects of that history is that the business was started twice, roughly ten years apart, in almost the same way. The first time was when Mark’s grandfather sold his farm on land that would later become Sandton and purchased the derelict chicken farm overlooking what he thought was the most beautiful beach in South Africa in the late 70s. Back in those days guests had to travel over dirt tracks to reach the resort, opening and closing farm gates as they went. While Mark’s grandfather had to transition from farmer to hotelier, the second generation entered hospitality from the start. Mark’s parents worked at various Wild Coast hotels and sent money to the family business for new cabins to be built one at a time. By the... --- - Published: 2025-11-12 - Modified: 2025-11-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/why-in-person-networking-still-matters-for-business-owners/ - Categories: Business Tips Essential preparation tips for attending networking events In the words of business magnate, Richard Branson, “Success in business is all about making connections”. While this remains inherently true, networking behaviours – like what draws people to in-person events, how they prefer to connect, and which formats foster the strongest engagement – continue to evolve. Today, business owners are networking with purpose – not just for handshakes, but for insights and innovation. This is according to the 2025 trends report by Freeman, a global leader in events, which reveals 61% of respondents network primarily to learn something new, while 58% do so to exchange ideas and 54%, to identify collaboration opportunities. Preparation is your secret weapon Walking into a networking event without preparation is a bit like pitching to an investor without a business plan – you might get lucky, but the odds aren’t in your favour. The entrepreneurs who consistently gain value from networking are the ones who take a strategic approach. They do their research, set objectives, and approach every conversation with intent. Here are five practical steps drawn from the Freeman report’s findings to help you prepare and network with purpose: Step one: Do your homework Before a networking event, research who’s attending, which experts will be there, and what topics will be discussed. In the report, 43% of respondents said knowing which industry leaders would be present helped them connect more effectively, while 40% value being able to connect with targeted attendees in advance. Step two: Arrive... --- - Published: 2025-11-12 - Modified: 2025-11-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-smart-entrepreneurs-guide-to-letting-go-of-a-business-idea/ - Categories: Business Tips According to research by the University of the Western Cape, between 70% and 80% of small businesses in South Africa fail within the first five years. And that’s for real, established businesses. The failure rate for business ideas – before they even get off the ground – is likely much higher. That’s why knowing whether your idea has genuine potential, and recognising the point at which it doesn’t, is critical for any aspiring entrepreneur. Continuing to invest time, money, and energy into an idea that isn’t viable can be costly, both financially and emotionally. That said, not every business idea is destined for failure. Here are five ways to determine whether an idea has the potential to succeed and when it’s time to let go. Test market demand early One of the most common reasons businesses fail is simply because there isn’t enough demand for their product or service. Before investing heavily, test the market. This can be done through surveys, pilot programmes, pre-orders, or small-scale launches. Honest feedback from potential customers can reveal whether your idea meets a genuine need. If there is little interest or engagement despite your best efforts, it may be a strong signal that the idea isn’t viable in its current form. Recognising this early saves resources and allows you to rework your idea or redirect your energy toward more promising opportunities. Evaluate the financial reality Passion alone doesn’t pay the bills. A sound business idea must also make financial sense. Create detailed projections, including... --- - Published: 2025-11-12 - Modified: 2025-11-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/small-businesses-urged-to-treat-black-friday-as-a-visibility-moment-not-a-discount-race/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases As the world prepares for another Black Friday (28 November), South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have a golden opportunity to stand out from the big brand noise by offering more value-driven, authentic alternatives. This is according to Sudir Sahadeo, Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited, who says that while big retailers may win on price, small businesses can win on connection. “Black Friday has long favoured large retailers with big advertising budgets and the ability to absorb heavy discounts. But entrepreneurs can run their own race by using this time to build relationships, boost visibility, and remind communities why supporting local matters. ” Competing on value, not price An increasingly constrained economic environment has bred a more cautious consumer, reinforcing expectations for aggressive Black Friday discounting. But Sahadeo warns that SMEs who try to compete purely on price risk eroding already-tight margins and damaging long-term sustainability. “Instead of slashing prices, focus on providing more value-added offers such as bundles, loyalty benefits, free delivery, or extended services. These reinforce customer experience and deliver tangible benefits without compromising profitability. They also showcase the agility of small businesses to exceed customer expectations,” he says. Sharing the local story Research shows that South Africans are keen to support local businesses, particularly those that create jobs and foster community development. SMEs can benefit by aligning themselves with efforts to strengthen and inclusively grow the local economy. “The competitive advantage of a small business often lies in its story,” says Sahadeo. “People want... --- - Published: 2025-11-12 - Modified: 2025-11-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-put-your-mental-health-first-as-a-business-owner/ - Categories: Business Tips Countless studies confirm the relationship between poor mental health or even a negative mood and lost productivity, but many of these focus on employees' productivity. What happens if you, as a business owner, are struggling with your own mental wellbeing? If this is the case, the impact on your business can be profound. Mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health. Just as no one should continue running a business with an untreated injury, ignoring your mental wellbeing shouldn’t be an option either. A healthy entrepreneur is generally more resilient and better equipped to navigate the challenges they will inevitably face. Here are five ways to put your wellbeing first and help your business in the process: Recognise that burnout is a business risk Entrepreneurs are known for their determination and willingness to push through obstacles, but this “always on” mindset can quickly lead to burnout. Unfortunately, burnout doesn’t just affect your health, it can impact creativity, productivity, and long-term sustainability. Recognising early warning signs such as constant fatigue, irritability, or difficulty focusing can help you prevent burnout before it hits. Prioritise rest like you would a weekly meeting Stop seeing rest as a luxury or reward. Just as athletes schedule recovery into their training, business owners need downtime to perform at their best. Simple steps like maintaining regular sleep, switching off emails after hours, and taking short breaks during the workday can make a significant difference. Periodic longer breaks, such as a weekend away or... --- - Published: 2025-11-05 - Modified: 2025-11-24 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/funeral-industry-innovator-named-sas-2025-entrepreneur-of-the-year/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases South Africa’s funeral industry is valued at over R10 billion yet remains one of the country’s least digitised sectors. In this landscape, Aphiwe Khambule is proving that even the most established industries can be transformed from within. Before joining her family business, 21st Century Funerals, Khambule worked as a fashion and beauty editor, in digital media, and in travel. Watching her father, Mduduzi, support families during vulnerable moments inspired her. “I saw the compassion, the late nights, the quiet strength it takes to bring comfort when people need it most,” she reflects. Today, as the winner of the 2025 Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year® award, Khambule is redefining what funeral cover means for families. She has injected the business with the vibrancy and creativity she gained from her years in fashion, bringing a fresh perspective to the industry.  A modern funeral service exists not only to provide support, emotionally, socially, and financially, but to help families celebrate a life well lived,” she explains. Under her leadership, the company launched MYPrestige Rewards, a loyalty programme providing healthcare discounts, education support, airtime, and grocery vouchers. Khambule is also tackling systemic issues, running learnerships that address unemployment and leading projects to mitigate South Africa’s cemetery shortage. For her, innovation isn’t about abandoning tradition, it’s about honouring it while meeting modern needs. David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited, says: “Aphiwe Khambule personifies the future of South African business, where leaders see their companies not just as commercial... --- - Published: 2025-11-05 - Modified: 2025-11-05 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-funeral-services-to-fashion-south-africas-most-innovative-entrepreneurs-of-2025/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Five SMEs are transforming South Africa’s economy through innovation, job creation, and unconventional leadership In a year marked by economic uncertainty, with growth projected between 0. 9% and 1. 6%, inflation rising to 3. 5%, and unemployment stubbornly high at 33. 2%, South Africa’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are proving to be a beacon of resilience, innovation, and job creation. Five trailblazing entrepreneurs are demonstrating how ingenuity and unconventional leadership can drive success against the odds. Honoured at the 37th annual Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year® Awards, these innovators are transforming the nation’s economy one breakthrough at a time. Aphiwe Khambule’s path to becoming South Africa’s 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year® didn’t follow a traditional route. Before becoming Chief Operating Officer of 21st Century Funeral Services, she worked in fashion, digital media, and travel operations. But it was witnessing her father, Mduduzi, serve families during their most vulnerable moments that shaped her purpose. “I saw the compassion, the late nights, the quiet strength it takes to bring comfort when people need it most,” she reflects. Now leading the second generation of a family business disrupting a R10 billion industry, Khambule has introduced the MYPrestige Rewards programme, offering policyholders benefits like airtime, grocery vouchers, and free career, legal, and medical support. She has also expanded into financial services, recognising that families need more than just a casket; they need options, breathing space, and support. Khambule shares the spotlight with four other entrepreneurs who are reshaping South Africa’s business... --- - Published: 2025-11-04 - Modified: 2025-11-04 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/purpose-pays-how-young-entrepreneurs-can-build-businesses-with-impact/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases There used to be a common misconception that doing good and doing well were mutually exclusive in business. However, as an impact investor, Business Partners Limited has long embraced the dual mandate of driving financial performance while creating meaningful social impact. Now a report by Deloitte puts that to rest once and for all, proving that companies who are leading with purpose consistently outperform their peers across key financial and operational indicators. Deloitte’s research found that purpose-driven firms achieve what it calls a “purpose premium” – a measurable advantage across six drivers of long-term value: brand and reputation, sales and innovation, capital access, operational efficiency, talent, and risk mitigation. High-purpose brands, for instance, recorded nearly a 20-percentage point premium in annualised shareholder returns compared to those with low purpose scores, and achieved faster market-value growth – sometimes up to four times faster. But while the world’s biggest corporations are formalising purpose strategies, the real opportunity may lie with smaller, more agile businesses. For SMEs still defining their identity and long-term vision, integrating purpose from the start can help differentiate in crowded markets, attract customers and capital, and build resilience through economic uncertainty. The business case for purpose Deloitte’s analysis is unequivocal: purpose drives performance. Nearly 80% of consumers are more likely to remember and trust brands that exhibit a strong sense of purpose, while brands with a clear social or environmental mission are six times more likely to be protected in the face of negative publicity. Purpose also directly influences... --- - Published: 2025-11-04 - Modified: 2025-11-04 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/pr-vs-marketing-how-can-pr-elevate-your-small-business/ - Categories: Business Tips Public relations (PR) and marketing are often terms that are used interchangeably. In business, both functions are critical in building a successful brand. This makes understanding the difference between them difficult, especially for small business owners. However, these functions serve different purposes and understanding the difference can be a game-changer for growth for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The rising implementation of PR by businesses is becoming more evident across Africa. Recent research by the African Public Relations Association (APRA) and the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) found that 38% of business leaders now rely more heavily on PR counsel, a 31% increase from 2024. Although sometimes the objectives, goals, and even some tactics used in PR and marketing may be closely related, marketing is all about promoting products and driving sales, while PR focuses on shaping your business’ reputation and building trust with your targeted audience. For SMEs, this is particularly important as a strong reputation can open doors, attract partners, and create long-term customer loyalty. Here’s how PR can elevate your small business and why it should complement your marketing efforts: Build credibility and trust Marketing messages and campaigns can tell people why they should buy your products or use your services, but PR shows them why they can trust you. PR efforts such as positive media coverage and thought leadership pieces help position your business as a credible player in your sector. If people see you as reliable, knowledgeable, and ethical, that could turn hesitant prospects... --- - Published: 2025-11-04 - Modified: 2025-11-04 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sme-confidence-lifts-amid-global-pressures-as-businesses-pin-hopes-on-madlanga-commission/ - Categories: Business Tips South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are cautiously optimistic that the newly established Madlanga Commission will mark a turning point in the fight against corruption and crime – long seen as one of the greatest barriers to doing business in the country. This is according to Quarter 2 2025 SME Confidence Index by Business Partners Limited, which shows a slight improvement in overall confidence across most indicators compared to the previous quarter. When asked specifically about the Madlanga Commission, 56. 82% of SMEs said they believe it will help dismantle entrenched crime syndicates and lead to a meaningful reduction in crime across the country. “Crime continues to drain resources, disrupt operations, and raise the cost of doing business for small businesses,” says Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited. “SMEs lose out on procurement opportunities because they may not have the 'right connections’, which directly impacts their profitability and sustainability. Similar to business owners, our hope is that this commission will expose the networks behind criminal activities and lead to stronger enforcement. ” President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to establish the commission in response to General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s revelations has been interpreted by many SMEs as a renewed commitment to transparency and reform. Lang says this signal of political will is encouraging for business owners who have long called for more decisive action to improve law and order. Hopeful confidence amid GNU uncertainty While disagreements within the Government of National Unity (GNU) raised questions about its stability, most SMEs... --- - Published: 2025-10-16 - Modified: 2025-10-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/bosss-day-is-due-for-a-rethink-lets-celebrate-leadership-not-just-titles/ - Categories: Business Tips Every year on 16 October, many business owners and leaders find themselves awkwardly accepting cards or gifts from their teams in celebrating Boss’s Day, which is a tradition that started in the United States in 1958 and has since quickly spread to many countries, including South Africa. While the gesture is often rooted in goodwill and an effort to build and foster a positive workplace culture, the concept is in need of a serious revamp, says Jeremy Lang, managing director of Business Partners Limited. Boss’s Day reflects an era when organisations were far more hierarchical and regimented, says Jeremy. In today’s world of work, organisations are more collaborative and less defined by rigid power structures. Employees are much more autonomous, empowered with decision-making responsibility and encouraged to contribute meaningfully to team outcomes. The emphasis in modern work environments has shifted from command-and-control leadership to mutual respect, teamwork and shared responsibility. Celebrating leadership should reflect these values, the role of leaders in enabling and supporting their teams rather than on following of orders. In today’s workplace culture, the notion of Boss’s Day seems outdated. Much more appropriate would be to foster appreciation throughout all levels of the organisation - from managers recognising their teams, employees acknowledging their leaders and colleagues celebrating each other. The focus should shift from hierarchical authority to honouring collaboration, mutual respect and shared leadership. “Today’s workplaces thrive in organisations with an ethos of inclusion and equity, where recognition is shared fairly and generously. Singling out the boss... --- - Published: 2025-10-16 - Modified: 2025-10-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-weakest-link-in-a-businesss-computer-system-is-not-where-you-think-it-is/ - Categories: Business Tips, Media Centre, Media Releases The number one threat in the online security of businesses in South Africa is not in their computer systems, but in the mind of the business owner, says Faiez Hartley, head of IT at Business Partners Limited. The good news is that with a relatively minor mind shift and the implementation of a few basic cybersecurity measures, South African businesses can dramatically decrease the threat they face from cyber criminals. The problem, says Faiez, is that business owners tend to think mistakenly that their business is too small to be the target of a cyberattack. In fact, almost half of all incidents of ransomware attacks, cyberfraud, and cybertheft of money and information are aimed at small businesses. With the advent of artificial intelligence tools, cybercrime aimed at small businesses is set to rise, says Faiez. While AI helps to automate many legitimate business processes, cybercriminals are leveraging the same technology to automate and amplify their attacks, broadening the range of the businesses they target. The first and most important step towards a safer business on the internet is awareness. Business owners must understand just how vulnerable their own business can be in the digital space. This does not require extensive research or sleepless nights, it simply calls for the knowledge and recognition that cybercrime is a real and growing threat, and that any business with an internet connection is a potential target. Think of it like the vehicles of a business. Business owners don’t send their cars on the road... --- - Published: 2025-10-16 - Modified: 2025-10-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/in-cape-towns-packed-tourism-scene-guest-house-finds-its-place-with-golf/ - Categories: Client Stories When Jolyon Proudman and Heike Lührmann started La Roche Guesthouse in a leafy street in the coastal Cape Town suburb of Milnerton twenty years ago, there was only one nearby guest house. Today, there are no fewer than 14 guest houses in Milnerton, and a whopping 25 000 rooms throughout Cape Town listed on Airbnb that did not even exist at that time. The tourism sector in South Africa has seen steady growth over the past two decades, with 2 million overseas visitors in 2005 versus 2,4 million in 2019 (excluding mainland visitors from Africa). Despite this growth, it is clear that competition within the tourism industry has intensified significantly. Apart from the basic principles of maintaining a high standard of service, one important way to thrive in such a cut-throat environment is to specialise, as Jolyon and Heike’s business clearly illustrates. At La Roche Guest House’s the primary clientele during the summer months, are German golfers seeking to escape the northern hemisphere’s winter and enjoy South Africa’s world-class golf courses. Both these specialities are deeply rooted in the personal journey of its founders, and of how Jolyon and Heike started La Roche Guesthouse. Jolyon, who grew up on a farm in the Eastern Cape, developed a passion for golf early on and eventually became a professional golfer. His career took him to Europe, especially Germany, where he worked as a golf instructor during the European summer and led golf tours to South Africa for the rest of the year.... --- - Published: 2025-10-16 - Modified: 2025-10-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/daring-to-dream-big-the-engineering-small-business-that-has-gone-global/ - Categories: Client Stories While most entrepreneurs typically start their businesses in their late thirties, after first spending years learning the ins and outs of an industry by working for someone else, especially before venturing out into a world as difficult as mining. But not Les-Lee Thompson, who after just four years of working as a chemical engineer started Chimerical Technology. The Somerset-West-based entrepreneur’s first client was a uranium mine in Kazakhstan, where she introduced an innovative new method of recovering chemicals from water used to process uranium ore. In certain ways Chimerical Technology’s birth was charmed. Les-Lee started the Kazakhstan project while she worked, “at the feet of the masters,” she says, for the engineering giant Aveng. As part of a major restructuring of the company, the plug was pulled on the Kazakhstan project. “I was heart-broken,” says Les-Lee, who had been tremendously excited at the prospect of seeing some of her first engineering solutions implemented. Fortunately, the client was keen on having the project continue, and Aveng gave Les-Lee the green light to take it over independently. Just like that, Chimerical Technology was born overnight, with its employees, premises and first international client already set up. But looking back on that moment a decade later, Les-Lee can see what a bold leap of faith it was, one that set the stage for a remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Devising a chemical engineering solution in the lab is one thing, implementing it in an operational mine is enormously risky, and that is just the engineering... --- - Published: 2025-10-15 - Modified: 2025-10-15 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/celebrating-sas-real-mvps/ - Categories: Business Tips Every year on 16 October, Boss’s Day gives employees an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the people who lead them for their support. But in South Africa, there’s a category of bosses who deserve more than just a thank-you card from their teams – the small and medium enterprise (SME) owners. These are the leaders who collectively contribute a third of the country’s GDP and employ over 60% of the workforce. While large corporate CEOs may make more headlines, there is a lot we can also learn from the small business bosses. Here’s why: They often prioritise purpose over profit For most SME owners, the motivation to start a business goes beyond financial gain. Many are driven by a desire to solve a problem, support their community, or build something lasting. This sense of purpose gives their leadership authenticity – a quality that inspires employees and earns customer loyalty. Purpose-led leadership is increasingly recognised as a competitive advantage. In uncertain times, it anchors teams and keeps them focused on long-term goals. Small business bosses, who often have a direct and personal connection to their mission, exemplify this naturally. They are masters of adaptability If the last few years have taught local business owners anything, it’s that adaptability is the ultimate survival skill. From navigating load shedding and rising costs to tariffs and macroeconomic volatility, small business leaders have had to pivot constantly – and fast. Fortunately, unlike large corporations bogged down by internal bureaucracy, SMEs are nimble by nature. A... --- - Published: 2025-10-13 - Modified: 2025-10-13 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/stronger-minds-stronger-businesses-why-entrepreneurs-need-mental-mentors/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Running a business is often portrayed as a path to independence and success. But behind the scenes, many entrepreneurs are quietly battling overwhelming levels of stress. In a survey of more than 400 early-stage startup founders, 72% reported that entrepreneurship has impacted their mental health, with 37% suffering from anxiety. “Long working hours, the isolation of leadership, and the constant pressure to keep a business afloat can take a heavy toll,” says Amogelang Montane, Human Resources Business Partner at Business Partners Limited. “And when stress levels rise unchecked, the ability to think clearly, make sound decisions, and lead effectively can become compromised, threatening the survival of the business itself, which is why we would advocate for a mental mentor in your business success toolkit. ” Coping mechanisms matter Entrepreneurship demands grit and resilience, but even the most seasoned business leaders rely on practical strategies to manage pressure. Montane notes that while there is no one-size-fits-all solution, several approaches can make a meaningful difference. These include setting clear boundaries to avoid overwork, prioritising rest and physical activity, and building strong support networks to reduce isolation. Alongside these strategies, one approach is emerging as particularly effective: mental mentorship. “We are increasingly recognising the role of mental mentors – individuals who provide guidance, perspective and emotional support beyond traditional business advice. Just as entrepreneurs turn to financial mentors for help with capital or growth strategies, they can lean on mental mentors to strengthen their psychological wellbeing,” Montane explains. What is a mental mentor?... --- - Published: 2025-10-13 - Modified: 2025-10-13 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sas-economic-drivers-15-business-owners-vie-for-the-2025-entrepreneur-of-the-year-title/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases As South Africa grapples with modest growth and high unemployment, entrepreneurs are stepping up as job creators and economic drivers. The easing of inflation to three-year lows, combined with steady recovery in key sectors like manufacturing and trade, is providing entrepreneurs with a more stable foundation for growth, as demonstrated by the 15 finalists in the 37th annual Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year® competition. “These entrepreneurs represent the forward momentum of South Africa's economy,” says David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited. “They're not just building successful businesses; they're creating jobs, driving innovation, and positioning South Africa as a hub for entrepreneurial excellence. ” This year’s cohort is defined by several key trends: women entrepreneurs are in the clear majority (10 of 15), many of them succeeding in male-dominated industries like mining and construction. While entrepreneurial success is concentrated in the economic hubs of Gauteng (8) and the Western Cape (4), there is also representation from KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. Tech and ICT have emerged as dominant growth sectors, balanced by a strong showing from industries as diverse as biotech, professional services, hospitality, and apparel. The finalists in the competition’s three categories are: Emerging Entrepreneur - awarded to an entrepreneur who has operated their business for one to five years: Lebohang Madubanya - Future Nurses Nursing School, a private nursing higher education institution. Prof Monique Zaahl - GENEdiagnostics, a genetic testing, research, and training business. Thandiwe Shema - Jalusi Corporation, an enterprise co-developing solutions... --- - Published: 2025-10-06 - Modified: 2025-10-06 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/infrastructure-the-missing-link-in-south-africas-sme-growth-story/ - Categories: Business Tips, Media Centre, Media Releases As South Africa marks Transport Month, the country’s infrastructure challenges continue to pose serious barriers to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). For years, frequent load shedding and poor internet access have disrupted operations and reduced productivity, while inadequate transport and logistics infrastructure delay supply chains and increase costs. Veroshen Naidoo, chief investment officer at Business Partners Limited, notes that although Eskom has made significant progress in addressing load shedding this year, the other constraints continue to not only hinder day-to-day business activities; they also contribute to high failure rates and stifle much-needed broader economic development. “Poor or inadequate infrastructure steadily increases the cost of doing business and erodes competitiveness to the point of closure for some businesses,” he says. “The knock-on effects of this are significant, especially in a low-growth economy where margins are already under severe strain. ” A recent Small Business Growth Index revealed that more than half of South Africa’s SMEs (55. 3%) may not survive the next year without urgent support. Rising expenses are a major factor: transport costs are up by 60. 9%, utilities by 56. 9%, and raw materials by 52. 9%. Much of this price volatility stems from infrastructure inefficiencies – from congested and hazardous roads with potholes and sinkholes, to unreliable water supply, particularly in Gauteng, inflating utility bills and logistics bottlenecks affecting material costs. Fortunately, the government has acknowledged the magnitude of this issue. In his 2025 budget speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana allocated R1 trillion... --- - Published: 2025-10-01 - Modified: 2025-10-01 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/saving-strategies-for-smes-cutting-costs-without-cutting-corners/ - Categories: Business Tips For many South African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), economic conditions in the country have pushed profitability to a critical point. Under these challenging conditions, a recent Small Business Growth Index reveals that more than half of local SMEs are at risk of closure within the next year. The pressure to cut costs has never been greater, but this doesn’t have to mean cutting corners. In fact, some of the most effective cost-saving strategies are those that improve efficiency, allowing you to do more with less while maintaining quality and productivity. Here are five practical strategies to consider: Embrace technology and automation Technology is one of the most powerful levers for cost-efficient growth. Automating routine tasks like invoicing, payroll, and inventory management can save hours of manual work each week. This enables employees to focus on higher-value activities that directly drive revenue. Cloud-based tools also reduce the need for expensive hardware and maintenance. From affordable accounting software to project management platforms, there are solutions tailored to businesses of every size. The upfront investment may feel significant, but with the right tools, the long-term savings and productivity gains are worth it. Optimise your workforce structure With labour often being the largest expense for SMEs, it is critical to structure your workforce efficiently. Start by mapping the skills you need to meet current and future goals. Are you carrying roles that are no longer essential, or could certain functions be outsourced more cost-effectively? Outsourcing non-core functions like IT support and HR administration... --- - Published: 2025-10-01 - Modified: 2025-10-01 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/common-legal-mistakes-smes-make-and-how-to-avoid-them/ - Categories: Business Tips Legal matters can be confusing within the business landscape and particularly so for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From contract drafting to intellectual property protection, doing business in accordance with the law can be complex. Mistakes can be costly and can even lead to more serious consequences, such as significant financial loss or business closure. For example, in 2019, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) revealed that 80% of its cases were from small businesses. This statistic highlights the significant legal and compliance challenges faced by SMEs – challenges that can lead to costly financial setbacks for businesses. Too often, SMEs fall outside of compliance not due to negligence but simply because they are unaware of essential legal requirements involved in running a formal business. This lack of awareness can expose them to unnecessary risks and hinder their growth potential. While large companies have the advantage of access to specialist in-house counsel, most SMEs scrape by with minimal resources, seeking advice from unverified online sources, or well-meaning friends or family. This approach can lead to difficulties that impact profit, spark internal disputes, or even threaten the business’s survival. It is necessary to be aware of these traps and to steer clear of them to succeed in the long run. These are five common legal mistakes SMEs make and what they should do instead to avoid running into any legal issues: Forgetting about formal contracts Most small entrepreneurs think that an email, text or word-of-mouth agreement is sufficient. Without... --- - Published: 2025-10-01 - Modified: 2025-10-01 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/a-time-for-renewal-how-smes-can-streamline-processes-for-a-more-seamless-operation/ - Categories: Business Tips As a small to medium business (SME) owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and overlook the little operational inefficiencies that can ultimately stifle your long-term growth. With Spring officially underway here in South Africa, it’s the perfect opportunity for renewal – not just on a personal level, but professionally too. Just like the ritual of spring cleaning your home, why not commit to streamlining your processes – decluttering the various operational inefficiencies that slow you down, drain resources, and keep your business from reaching its full potential? Here’s where to start: Conduct a business process audit Take a hard look at your operations. Which tasks take too long? Where do bottlenecks occur? The best way to do this is to gather input from employees, as those on the ground often know exactly where inefficiencies lie. Prioritise the areas that impact customers directly, such as invoicing, delivery, or customer service. Once identified, set measurable goals to improve these processes – whether that’s reducing turnaround times, cutting redundant steps, or leveraging automation. Streamline communication channels Communication is the backbone of any business, but too many tools or unclear processes can create confusion. Decide on a central platform for internal communication and encourage consistent use across your teams. For external communication, standardise customer touchpoints so clients know exactly how and where to reach you. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of missed messages and duplicated work. Incorporate predictive, rather than proactive, maintenance Whether you... --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-09-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/local-is-lekker-the-business-case-for-going-local-this-heritage-day/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Entrepreneurs who source and make local products often feel like they are competing against a global stage, even when their business only serves the local market. It is not uncommon for them to find imported products priced lower than the cost of their own raw materials. And if it isn’t the challenge of unsustainably low prices that they have to compete against, it’s the widespread perception among South Africans that many international products are better quality. Faced with these pressures many business owners may wonder if they should abandon local sourcing and production in favour of importing cheaper products or raw materials? Absolutely not, says Buntu Mjindi, senior investment officer at Business Partners Limited. Producing and buying locally is too important for our economic development, and besides, there are clear business advantages in developing a local supply chain for your business, he says. The build up to Heritage Day presents a good opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase the value and benefits of sourcing locally produced goods. Heritage Month is worthy of reflecting on the economic and social benefits of supporting local supply chains. When products are made locally it strengthens local jobs in factories and retailers, stimulates consumer spending within communities and fosters a sense of pride and community cohesion that strengthen the broader economy. However, for many business owners, patriotic sentiment alone means very little, especially to the harsh reality of competing with half-priced imports. Fortunately, says Buntu, there are compelling business arguments in favour of investing in local... --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-09-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/diversification-the-best-insurance-policy-against-a-tourism-slump/ - Categories: Business Tips The Covid-19 pandemic was a brutal lesson that travelling, the lifeblood of the tourism industry, can come to an abrupt halt due to a range of unforeseen disruptions, including natural disasters such as droughts and floods, political unrest or international squabbles. Today, five years after the Covid-19 pandemic, thousands of tourism businesses that managed to survive are still struggling to make up the revenue they lost. The best insurance policy for tourism accommodation owners against disruptions such as these is diversification, says Friedrich Meisenholl, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited. Diversifying income streams can be advantageous for tourism accommodation businesses. For guest houses in particular, it presents an opportunity to break through the hard ceiling of profitability set by the number of rooms. Tapping into alternative revenue sources can help owners safeguard their bottom line against the huge increase in competition in the tourism accommodation market, a trend that has accelerated because of platforms like Airbnb. Offering a broader range of services can make a guest house more attractive, boosting occupancy rates. The key lies in reimagining the potential of your existing facilities and thinking creatively about how to utilise the environment around your establishment, says Friedrich. He lists the following practical ways guest house owners can transform their establishments into more resilient, profitable and diverse businesses: Maximise your kitchen facilities: Most guest houses have kitchen facilities that are underutilised for most of the day, especially when limited to bed-and-breakfast services. Think about how your kitchen can serve a... --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-09-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/playing-the-long-game-entrepreneur-fulfils-her-bright-yellow-dream/ - Categories: Client Stories Growing up poor in a small rural village in the Eastern Cape, Tuletu Kobo fixated on the dream of one day owning her own hotel. She can’t quite pinpoint what sparked it, perhaps it was the afternoons spent in the family-run businesses of her more privileged friends, or the special linen that her mother took out whenever guest visited their humble home. Whatever the source, the dream remained a burning desire early on and never stopped. Like many of her generation, Tuletu became a teacher as a way out of poverty. She taught home economics, the closest subject to hospitality, spending nearly three decades in the classroom. But her dream never faded. Alongside her teaching career, she ran countless side-hustles for extra income, each one a stepping stone towards moving closer to her dream. Today, Tuletu is a testament to what it means playing the long game in business. She is the proud owner of a chain of six guest houses in East London, all painted in the signature bright yellow of her Thule Guest House brand, offering a total of 50 rooms to guests from near and far. Her journey began with a commitment to educate herself as much as she could about the tourism industry, despite having limited resources. While still working as a teacher, she explored a variety of side-hustles, selling food, second-hand clothes and braiding hair. Each venture taught her valuable lessons about trade, customer service and financial management. But more importantly, each revealed where her... --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-09-17 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/entrepreneur-builds-a-thriving-guest-house-and-a-big-extended-family/ - Categories: Client Stories Few businesses are as all-consuming as a guest house. Take JJ Pieterse, who has built up the Ramasi Guest Services CC in Panorama, Cape Town, from scratch over two decades. Over those twenty years, JJ stayed on the property with his guests, serving them day and night, spending many days with them on tour, and seeing their children grow up as they return every year on holiday. Such a lifestyle might be too much for even the most dedicated business owner, but JJ says he loves it. Firstly, his vast network of guests is like one big extended family. “When a long-standing guest returns, it’s like welcoming a family member back home,” he says warmly. His enthusiasm for the Cape never fades, no matter how many times he takes guests on a guided tour through Cape Point or spotting whales in Hermanus, he never grows tired of it. “Each visit reveals a fresh bloom, a different bird or a new moment to treasure. From the penguins in Betty’s Bay to the vineyards of the winelands, how could anyone tire of such a wonderful province? ” says the 73-year-old entrepreneur. JJ started his career as a computer pioneer, learning to program for mainframes in the 1970s and eventually founding his own tech agency specialising in computer hardware and storage solutions. Even before entering the tourism industry, he was already playing the role of host and guide, inviting his corporate clients and their spouses on overseas trips to his computer suppliers, and... --- - Published: 2025-09-09 - Modified: 2025-09-09 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/mastering-the-art-of-business-negotiation-for-smes/ - Categories: Business Tips In business, few skills are as universally valuable as the ability to negotiate well. Whether you’re securing better payment terms from a supplier, finalising a contract with a new client, or discussing equity with an investor, strong negotiation skills can directly affect your bottom line. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), where margins are often tighter and resources more limited, every negotiation counts. Yet many business owners approach these discussions with hesitation, unsure of how to balance firmness with flexibility, or how to push for favourable terms without jeopardising relationships. The good news is that negotiation is not an innate talent; it’s a skill that can be learned, practised, and refined over time. By understanding the core principles and applying them consistently, SME owners can secure outcomes that strengthen their businesses while fostering trust and long-term partnerships. Here are five strategies to help you master the art of negotiation: Prepare like a professional Successful negotiations begin long before you sit down at the table. This means researching the other party’s needs, challenges, and priorities, as well as having a clear understanding of your own position. If you’re negotiating with a supplier, know their pricing structures, market trends, and offers from their competitors. If you’re dealing with a potential client, it’s important to understand their industry pressures and what value you bring that others might not. Preparation also means anticipating objections and having persuasive responses ready. Focus on mutual value, not just winning A common mistake in negotiation is treating it... --- - Published: 2025-09-04 - Modified: 2025-09-04 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/using-technology-to-streamline-operations-and-improve-efficiency/ - Categories: Business Tips For local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), there is a constant pressure to do more with less, which means finding smart ways to cut costs, save time and boost productivity. In this context, technology is one of the most powerful levers available to business owners. When used effectively, digital tools can automate manual or repetitive tasks, enhance customer service, and free up valuable capacity to focus on growth. Despite this fact, less than 30% of South African SMEs have adopted digital tools. Whether this is due to cost concerns or uncertainty about which solutions will deliver the most impact, the slow uptake could severely undermine local competitiveness in the long run. The good news is that many affordable, practical options are available to help SMEs begin their digital journey. Here are a few starting points: Automate administrative and repetitive tasks Time spent on manual paperwork, invoicing, data entry or stocktaking is time not spent on growing the business. Cloud-based accounting software like Xero and Sage can automate invoicing, track expenses and generate real-time financial reports, while inventory management tools can help monitor stock levels and optimise ordering cycles. Even small tweaks – like using scheduling tools to plan meetings or free email automation software to confirm appointments – can save hours each week. Embrace cloud storage and collaboration tools Moving operations to the cloud allows business owners and teams to access files, documents and systems from anywhere. Tools like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 allow for real-time collaboration, document sharing... --- - Published: 2025-08-26 - Modified: 2025-08-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-inclusive-to-profitable-8-ways-to-support-women-at-work/ - Categories: Business Tips Women’s Month presents a uniquely South African opportunity for business owners to reflect on one of the most important competitive advantages discovered in recent years. There is strong scientific consensus that businesses with diverse workplaces are more innovative and profitable than those with homogenous teams, says Kgomotso Ramoenyane, executive general manager: human resources at Business Partners Limited. A key feature of diversity in the workplace is a balance between the number of male and female workers. Research shows that the introduction of just a few women in traditionally male dominated work teams can have a positive effect on the flow of ideas, decision making and customer service of a business. Changing the composition of a team can be a slow and frustrating process for business owners navigating recruitment in a country where skills are scarce. The key is to set it as a strategic goal, says Kgomotso. By doing so, business owners can explore a variety of targeted tactics to attract and retain excellent female talent, including: Foster a culture of work-life balance: research shows that in most parts of the world, and certainly in South Africa, women often shoulder the majority of household work and childcare responsibilities. This imbalance is unfair and has real implications; many women are under immense pressure to leave work promptly in order to manage duties at home. Creating a supportive workplace that recognizes and respects this reality, will make your business more attractive to female talent but also foster stability and high productivity. Offer... --- - Published: 2025-08-26 - Modified: 2025-08-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/turning-crisis-into-capital-how-one-training-business-is-empowering-entrepreneurs/ - Categories: Client Stories Sherene Anandham had worked her way up in the corporate world from shop assistant to group financial manager when the blatant structural unfairness still facing female executives in South Africa’s corporate sector finally became intolerable. At the end of 2019, she made a decision to resign from her corporate position without any preparation of what lies ahead. Her decision came from experiencing overwhelming constraints between work, family and her commitment to ad-hoc clients she attended to after hours. She knew that her valuable knowledge, skills and experience will support her decision to drive her entrepreneurial passion. Today Sherene runs a consultancy, Empower You SA, aimed at training and supporting emerging entrepreneurs, and The Good Accountant, an accounting practice, from her own premises in Randburg recently bought with the help of commercial property finance from Business Partners Limited. Apart from her deep financial and management skills, Sherene’s ability to support small growing businesses was enriched by her own start-up experience. Like so many entrepreneurs, Sherene’s business formed out of her side-hustle: a handful of clients whose books she kept over weekends while she climbed the corporate ladder. It was the constant requests from businesses for her to take on their books that gave her the confidence that she could build a successful accounting practice if she focused on it full-time. At first her confidence was deeply shaken by a massive unexpected blow; she had resigned no less than three months before the countries first Covid-19 lockdown. “I thought, ‘oh my goodness,... --- - Published: 2025-08-22 - Modified: 2025-08-22 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/supporting-young-business-owners-the-power-of-intergenerational-collaboration-in-small-business-innovation/ - Categories: Business Tips Youth unemployment in South Africa is at concerning levels, with the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey by Stats SA revealing that the youth unemployment rate has risen to 46,1% in 2025. That’s about 4,8 million young people without work, similiar to the previous quarter. But in this bleak environment, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) remain a beacon of hope, not only as potential employers, but as launchpads for the country’s next generation of entrepreneurs. As we look for solutions to this, it’s worth considering how small businesses can support young business owners, and how intergenerational collaboration can drive both innovation and resilience. Small businesses that intentionally create space for younger voices and ideas are often the ones that remain most adaptable in the face of change. When younger and older generations work together, they can combine the best of both worlds: deep operational experience and fresh thinking. In my years at Business Partners Limited, I have witnessed the value of these partnerships first-hand. Older entrepreneurs often bring business acumen, customer insights, financial discipline and a long-term perspective. Younger entrepreneurs bring innovation, agility, and the ability to quickly test and scale new ideas – particularly in areas like ecommerce, social media, technology and green business. This type of collaboration doesn’t require a formal partnership. It could be as simple as a business owner inviting a younger team member to contribute to strategy sessions, or providing informal mentoring to an emerging founder in their network. The point is to build bridges between... --- - Published: 2025-08-22 - Modified: 2025-08-22 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/five-tips-for-opening-and-running-a-hospitality-business-in-2025/ - Categories: Business Tips As South Africa gears up to host the G20 Leaders Summit in November – the first ever on African soil – the spotlight on our hospitality sector has never been brighter. The event is expected to generate over R1,2 billion in direct tourism revenue, putting local hotels, guesthouses and restaurants to the test on a global stage. The stakes are high, but so is the potential. For entrepreneurs ready to seize the opportunity, here are five practical tips for launching or running a hospitality business in South Africa - guidance that will serve you well in 2025 and beyond. Invest in your digital presence With 66% of hotel bookings now made online, having a compelling, visible digital profile should be at the top of your priorities. You can strengthen your online presence by showcasing seasonal offerings and unique experiences, encouraging guests to share reviews, and running targeted promotions, such as G20-themed packages or weekend escape deals. In today’s digitally driven world, strong online visibility not only boosts discovery but also keeps your business top of mind for both local and international travellers. Prepare for surges and seasonality An international forum like the G20 will drive a significant spike in accommodation and restaurant demand, but maintaining high standards through quieter months is what builds long-term guest loyalty. In Cape Town, for example, hotel occupancy was around 53% in June 2023, climbing to a full house by December. Plan ahead by improving infrastructure during quiet periods and use downtime to stay on... --- - Published: 2025-08-22 - Modified: 2025-08-22 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/womens-month-celebrating-progress-inspiring-possibility/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases When René Botha, regional investment manager at Business Partners Limited, reflects on her career spanning over two decades, she sees remarkable transformation in the role and recognition of women, not only in the company, but across South Africa’s broader business landscape. For one thing, there were no female operational senior managers at Business Partners Limited back in 2005, until René broke new ground by becoming the first. Two decades later, the company has made notable progress, with more women in senior and middle management positions. This upward trend is also mirrored in Business Partners Limited’s lending activity to entrepreneurs. In 2010, 31,5 percent of the total value of transactions disbursed were to female entrepreneurs. Fast forward to 2025 and the figure has risen to 43,6 percent. René believes that the same improvement in empowering women is not only limited to Business Partners Limited but taking place across many sectors in South Africa. But does this mean the hurdles to women’s entry into the mainstream economy have disappeared? Not quite, says René. Many challenges persist. Women have always carried the brunt of majority of the childcare and housekeeping responsibilities, even as full-time workers. Deep rooted gender stereotypes still influence perceptions of certain jobs, roles like doctors are often seen as male, while nurses are viewed as female. In entrepreneurship women traditionally focused on generating income to support their families, while men sought wealth creation. When it comes to accessing business finance, women entrepreneurs always face disadvantages due to having fewer assets... --- - Published: 2025-08-22 - Modified: 2025-08-26 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/drilling-into-opportunity-and-tackling-mining-one-rig-at-a-time/ - Categories: Client Stories Zanele Nkosi never imagined she’d one day be running a drilling company, breaking new ground, literally and figuratively in the male dominated South African mining industry. Yet in just five years, the 33 year old founder of Wellex Drilling, the only known women-owned drilling company in South Africa has built a reputation as one of the country’s most determined junior mining contractors, recently securing a landmark exploration contract in Namibia. After matriculating in Ulundi, where she was born and raised, Zanele studied human resources with the aim of joining the corporate world. But during her internship in KwaZulu-Natal, she came across a farming operation that sparked a deep interest in agriculture. Inspired by what she saw she enrolled in an agriculture degree through UNISA and vowed that she would become a farmer one day. While working in HR at a hospital group, Zanele made the decision to move to Johannesburg to join her life partner, a young entrepreneur hustling and trying to make a name for himself in the mining industry. At first Zanele tried to look for a job, but the move, her partner’s involvement in mining, and her growing interest in agriculture began to shift her perspective on her career path. Among other things, she purchased coal mining rights to a farm in KwaZulu-Natal with the hope of raising additional finance. Her breakthrough came unexpectedly while visiting her partner’s childhood village in Limpopo when she saw a contractor try to drill a borehole but failed to find water,... --- - Published: 2025-08-08 - Modified: 2025-08-08 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/bridging-the-gender-finance-gap-in-south-african-entrepreneurship/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases New research from Mastercard reveals that 57% of South African women identify as entrepreneurs, surpassing the regional average of 51% across Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EEMEA). These women entrepreneurs are a vital part of South Africa’s economic engine, and yet, many face funding barriers that limit their potential. This is according to Gugu Mjadu, Executive General Manager: Marketing at Business Partners Limited, who believes that targeted support for women-led businesses is essential to close the country’s gender finance gap. “Too many women-led businesses are underfunded and underserved, often because traditional financiers have not adapted their models to meet the unique realities that women entrepreneurs face,” she says. “This includes that many women bootstrap their businesses in initial stages and delay applying for finance making it sometimes challenging for financiers to assess their applications accurately. Some are navigating male-dominated industries, or working to expand legacy businesses started under extremely difficult socio-economic conditions. ” Financiers like Business Partners Limited play an important role in shifting this landscape. The company’s steadfast commitment to inclusive access to finance is clearly demonstrated by the significant growth in its support to women entrepreneurs. In the 2025 financial year, disbursements to women-owned businesses accounted for an impressive 43,6 percent of the total disbursements - up from 31,2 percent in the 2024 financial year - highlighting the company’s ongoing efforts to empower women and foster equitable economic participation. “Through funding solutions and non-financial support tailored to women-owned businesses, we’re committed to unlocking untapped entrepreneurial potential,”... --- - Published: 2025-08-07 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-authentically-embrace-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-your-business-operations-2/ - Categories: Business Tips We’ve all seen big businesses attempt to jump on the latest trend or global movement, positioning themselves as ‘the brand that cares’. But when these efforts are purely performative, consumers notice and they don’t forget. Today’s customers can quickly distinguish between genuine commitment and mere lip service, and when they sense the latter, it can permanently shift their perception of a brand. Building on the momentum of public holidays like International Women’s Day (IWD) and National Women’s Day, many companies will use the occasion to highlight their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. However, the real challenge is ensuring that these efforts extend beyond a single day. True DEI isn’t about once-off campaigns, it’s about embedding inclusive values into a company’s culture, policies, and daily operations. The business case for DEI Imagine working for a company that makes children’s toys, yet no one on the team has children. Or selling insurance designed for women, while your entire company is staffed by men. How can you truly understand the needs of a target audience that isn’t represented within your own workforce? While these examples may seem reductive, they reflect a fundamental truth: businesses that embrace DEI are better equipped to serve a diverse customer base. More than just a social good, diverse teams foster innovation, drive better decision-making, and improve employee engagement. Some South African businesses have already embedded DEI as a core business strategy. Satrix, for instance, introduced South Africa’s first Inclusion and Diversity Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) in 2021, which... --- - Published: 2025-08-07 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-build-strong-business-networks-and-partnerships/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited As a business owner, your network is more than a list of contacts - it’s a growth engine. This is especially true for startups, with one study revealing a direct correlation between the number of networking activities an entrepreneur engages in and their likelihood of achieving profitability, revenue growth, innovation, access to funding, and strong talent. The value of collaborations or partnerships is equally compelling. A McKinsey study found that organisations combining multiple collaboration mechanisms – including partnerships – are more likely to outperform peers, launching nearly twice as many successful business initiatives and growing market share at significantly higher rates. Whether it’s a distribution alliance, a referral agreement, or a strategic collaboration, building the right business relationships can open doors to new markets, shared resources and greater resilience. Here are five ways to build strong business networks and partnerships: Shift your mindset: it’s about relationships, not transactions Effective networking is not about short-term gain; it’s about building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. This means showing genuine interest in others, listening actively, and offering help where you can. People are more likely to support your business if they feel that you are also invested in theirs. Approach networking with a mindset of collaboration rather than self-interest or competition. Join industry bodies and business associations Membership in a professional or industry body gives you instant access to a community of like-minded business owners and professionals. Organisations like the Small Business Institute or National... --- - Published: 2025-07-28 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/mid-year-business-check-in-how-to-reassess-goals-for-the-second-half-of-the-year/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited By the middle of the year, most small business owners are so busy managing day-to-day operations that any medium- to long-term strategy goes out the window. But doing a mid-year business check-in can be one of the most powerful ways to keep your business on track towards achieving your goals. The economic climate in South Africa remains challenging: consumers are cash-strapped, and many businesses are operating in low-growth sectors. At the same time, we’ve seen positive signs: interest rates have stabilised, fuel prices have dipped even though there’s a threat of a diesel price hike in August, and some SMEs are reporting stronger cash flow compared to this time last year. Whether your business is struggling or thriving, now is the right time to take stock. Here’s how to approach your mid-year business check-in: Review your original goals Start by revisiting the goals you set at the beginning of the year. These might include revenue targets, customer growth, product launches or geographic expansion. Ask yourself: Are you on track? Have any goals become irrelevant or unrealistic due to market changes? Have new priorities emerged that weren’t on your radar six months ago? Be honest. This is not an exercise in self-criticism – it’s about clarity. If a goal no longer serves the business or isn’t achievable under current conditions, change it. Sticking to a goal that no longer fits can be more damaging than adjusting it mid-year. Reassess your financial position... --- - Published: 2025-07-28 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/entrepreneur-of-the-year-awards-now-open-for-entries/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases SA entrepreneurs are rising beyond their roots, but growth demands support SME confidence is climbing in 2025, with more business owners viewing the economy and government efforts as supportive of growth. But the pressure isn’t off. The latest Business Partners SME Confidence Index shows cash flow, economic conditions, and limited funding remain the top barriers. To overcome these, 86% of SMEs say access to finance is critical, 85% need targeted business resources, and 83% highlight the importance of mentorship. Policy changes are underway, but private sector support remains crucial The government has introduced the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, which aims to simplify access to both financial and non-financial support by reducing bureaucratic hurdles. “This legislation is a step in the right direction,” says David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited. “However, policy on its own won’t be enough. The private sector must play a role in providing the capital, mentorship, networks, and exposure that entrepreneurs need to succeed. ” Supporting SMEs to build stronger local and global footprints The 37th annual Entrepreneur of the Year® Awards, opened for entries on 1 July 2025. This Business Partners Limited one platform that seeks to identify and celebrateSouth African individuals running successful SMEs. The Awards are open to owners of SMEs across three categories: Emerging Business Entrepreneur, Small Business Entrepreneur, and Medium Business Entrepreneur. Five finalists will be selected in each category, with the finalist who makes the most contribution to employment and skills development in the... --- - Published: 2025-07-28 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/missed-out-on-mandela-day-tips-to-make-the-most-of-next-year/ - Categories: Business Tips Small business, big heart: here is how you can maximise your impact on Mandela Day and continue to make a difference beyond the celebration, whether you took part in this year’s activities or not. Your involvement can inspire change and uplift your community. Starting the weekend of 18 July, millions of South Africans join hands for Mandela Day, the country’s unique celebration of community building and solidarity. For business owners, Mandela Day presents a golden opportunity to connect with their communities and make meaningful impact, says James Mentor, investment manager at Business Partners Limited based in Gqeberha. James acknowledges that business owners have to be mindful about how they allocate their limited resources, especially time and money. However he argues that Mandela Day has gained such a powerful momentum that every contribution, no matter how modest, carries real value. The scale of the collective effort by so many South Africans amplifies the impact of each contribution, no matter how small. And if a business decides to commit in a big way to Mandela Day, they stand to gain so much more than just a nominal contribution to a good cause. First and foremost, Mandela Day is an opportunity for businesses to assert themselves as part of the community which they serve and in which they operate. “It is an invaluable chance for you to stand up and be seen,” says James. In the past, a business would advertise or try to make the news so that the local community newspaper... --- - Published: 2025-07-28 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/new-empowered-generation-taking-parents-legacy-to-the-next-level/ - Categories: Client Stories Increasingly across South Africa intrepid black entrepreneurs are starting to hand over to their children the businesses that they have built against all odds. One such pioneer is Geoffrey Bongani Buthelezi, who founded Human Scale Printers, in the late 1980s in the townships around Durban, where few had ventured before. Today, the business operates from the Prospecton industrial area and is proudly run by Geoffrey’s daughters, Sibusisiwe and Sithokozile Buthelezi. At 70, Geoffrey emphasizes that he is not simply handing over a completed business to Sibusisiwe and Sithokozile to run as he had. Rather, he is empowering them with an opportunity to elevate the business to new heights and leave their own imprint on the printing and packaging industry. Sibusisiwe, has officially been at the helm of Human Scale Printers for less than a year, and already the business has made impressive strides, just as Geoffrey had envisioned. Operating with a team of 20 employees and a 1 700 m² factory equipped with a range of advanced printing machines, Human Scale Printers has recently achieved its International Organization for Standardization (ISO) accreditation, and has expanded into the packaging sector, with brand new state of the art machinery financed through the support from Business Partners Limited. It has come a long way from Geoffrey’s tiny operation in Durban’s townships of KwaMashu and Umlazi that printed funeral notices and wedding invitations for the local community. Geoffrey and his business faced huge challenges throughout its tumultuous years of growth. As a determined student... --- - Published: 2025-07-28 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/preschool-entrepreneurs-put-passion-before-profits/ - Categories: Client Stories Husband and wife team Cheryl de Freitas and Marnewicke Loubser know that the financial rewards of growing their Tiny Tots Academy preschool network is still decades away. But when it comes to lifestyle, they find themselves in the pound seats. “We sleep at home, and live at our schools,” says Marnewicke. There is no greater reward for him and Cheryl than seeing over 300 children flourish and thrive across their three Tiny Tots Academy playgrounds in Roodepoort. Their team of 58 dedicated staff members are far exceeding the required staff-to-child ratios, but it reflects their commitment to prioritising purpose over profits. The Tiny Tots Academy was started eight years ago when Cheryl and Marnewicke bought an existing playschool in Strubens Valley, Roodepoort. Cheryl, a qualified early childhood educator, had previously successfully built and sold a preschool with the help of bank financing. Given her proven track record, she expected securing funding would be easy. But the reality was far more challenging. “It was extremely frustrating and genuinely very hard to just find bankers who understood business finance,” says Marnewicke. “I know they advertise it everywhere, but you go from branch to branch, and because there is equity in the business involved as well as the property, they either revert back to ‘Oh, so you want property finance,” or ‘You want a personal loan’. No one understood and grasped the full picture and it was an absolute nightmare. Their experience with Business Partners Limited marked a turning point. Unlike traditional lenders,... --- - Published: 2025-07-11 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-resilient-and-motivated-workforce-hr-best-practices-for-small-businesses/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited In a growing business, your people are your greatest strength, but they can also be your biggest vulnerability if not managed properly. While more established companies have dedicated human resources (HR) departments, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often don’t have the same resources, which can lead to reactive decisions, high staff turnover and inconsistent performance. Fortunately, building a resilient and motivated workforce doesn’t require a big budget. It requires intention, consistency and a willingness to invest in your people in ways that make sense for the scale and culture of your business. Here are five best practices for small business owners looking to build a strong, stable and engaged team. Start with clarity and consistency One of the biggest mistakes small business owners make is hiring people without clear roles or expectations. This often leads to confusion and frustration, both for employees and business owners. Every team member should have a clear job description, defined deliverables, and a structured onboarding process. Don’t assume people will just “figure it out”. Structure creates accountability and helps everyone work toward the same goals. Consistency also matters in how you apply rules. If you enforce punctuality for some and not others, or change expectations frequently without communication, you undermine trust across the business. Invest in development, no matter how small You don’t need a formal training budget to grow your team’s skills. Development can take the form of job shadowing, peer mentoring, online courses, lunch-and-learn... --- - Published: 2025-07-11 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/beyond-67-minutes-smes-hold-the-key-to-lasting-community-upliftment/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Did you know that South Africa has around 3 million small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) collectively employing about 13 million people? As the country celebrates another Mandela Month, there’s an opportunity to reflect on the vital role these businesses play, not just as job creators, but as powerful agents for social change and community upliftment. A famous African proverb says, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, but David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited says the same applies to building a strong SMME ecosystem and country. “Yes, we need government to create enabling environments, but the private sector, formal small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in particular, have the unique ability to foster meaningful grassroots impact. ” With SMEs contributing significantly to South Africa’s employment, their influence is far-reaching, not only economically but socially as well. These enterprises form the backbone of local communities, often operating in close proximity to the people they serve. However, Morobe believes too many entrepreneurs underestimate the power they hold to drive social change. “Community upliftment should drive business. It’s not a corporate responsibility; it’s a shared one. And when SMEs lead by example, their impact is often more targeted, personal, and sustainable. ” From charity to community investment Historically, Mandela Month has inspired a surge of one-off acts of kindness, ranging from soup kitchens to clean-up drives, but Morobe argues that resources permitting, the legacy of Madiba calls for more. “Small businesses should start thinking of CSI not... --- - Published: 2025-07-08 - Modified: 2025-07-08 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sa-entrepreneurs-are-rising-beyond-their-roots-but-growth-demands-support/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases SME confidence is climbing in 2025, with more business owners viewing the economy and government efforts as supportive of growth. But the pressure isn’t off. The latest Business Partners SME Confidence Index shows cash flow, economic conditions, and limited funding remain the top barriers. To overcome these, 86% of SMEs say access to finance is critical, 85% need targeted business resources, and 83% highlight the importance of mentorship. Policy changes are underway, but private sector support remains crucial The government has introduced the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, which aims to simplify access to both financial and non-financial support by reducing bureaucratic hurdles. “This legislation is a step in the right direction,” says David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited. “However, policy on its own won’t be enough. The private sector must play a role in providing the capital, mentorship, networks, and exposure that entrepreneurs need to succeed. ” Supporting SMEs to build stronger local and global footprints The 37th annual Entrepreneur of the Year® Awards, open from 1 July 2025, is one platform that seeks to identify and support South African individuals running successful SMEs. The Awards are open to owners of SMEs across three categories: Emerging Entrepreneur, Small Business Entrepreneur, and Medium Business Entrepreneur. Five finalists will be selected in each category, with the finalist who makes the most contribution to employment and skills development in the country being awarded the Job Creator award. Depending on entries received, an Innovator of the Year... --- - Published: 2025-06-27 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/bridging-the-gap-tips-on-how-business-owners-can-create-youth-friendly-work-environments/ - Categories: Business Tips Bridging the gap – tips on how business owners can create youth-friendly work environments It is fair to say that any entrepreneur who has been in business for even five years has felt a overwhelming sense that the world is changing at an alarming speed. It is a challenging experience, given that owner-managers try to build stable, long-lasting systems in their business. All the while, however, technology and markets are changing relentlessly around them, says Amogelang Montane, human resources business partner at Business Partners Limited. One of the best ways for an owner-manager to ensure that their business adapts to these rapid changes is to employ young people. They are digital natives and can help streamline processes, improve online presence, and introduce automation tools, says Amogelang. A business that ages with the same employees runs a real risk of stagnating, while new, young employees often challenge the status quo and bring fresh ideas that can spark innovation. Hiring and nurturing young employees is therefore a crucial long-term investment for any business, but how do you make your business more attractive for young talent? There is plenty you can do, says Amogelang: Express the values of your business: Unlike previous generations, today’s young professionals are drawn to organisations that stand for more than just efficiency or profit. They seek out purpose-driven companies that have a positive impact in the world, whether through sustainability, inclusivity, or social responsibility. While most businesses have a set of moral values that guide its decision making,... --- - Published: 2025-06-27 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/business-plan-competition-award-a-boost-for-the-community/ - Categories: Client Stories A small education company’s already outsized impact on a community in Soweto got a major boost when they won the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Toolkit Business Plan competition by Business Partners Limited. RSF Tutorials Combined Pty (Ltd) beat 11 finalists in the annual competition to win R50 000 in cash and mentorship worth a further R50 000. With the cash prize, RSF Tutorials has been able to buy much-needed computer equipment. But one of the company’s co-founders, Mpiyakhe Mlangeni, says much more important than the formal prize was the exposure that the competition gave the business, which provides weekend lessons to hundreds of children in Soweto. “The publicity caught the attention of the regional education authorities, who reached out to collaborate and expand RSF’s impact in the wider community,” says Mpiyakhe. His co-director, Murendeni Mpfuni, adds that another major benefit of the competition was how it strengthened their team. “It was a lot of hard work and we had to put in long hours, because after our regular weekend lessons, we had to work on our business plan,” she says. They called on their staff and their wide network in the community including parents to bring in diverse expertise. As a result RSF Tutorials is more entrenched in the community than ever before. Founded in 2015 and based at Nghunghunyani Comprehensive School in Protea Glen in Soweto, they offer Saturday lessons to learners from various local schools. While they cover a wide range of subjects, their core focus remains... --- - Published: 2025-06-27 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/seasoned-professional-builds-a-thriving-law-firm-overcomes-adversity/ - Categories: Client Stories Starting your own business is always harder than you think, even for the highly qualified professions such as lawyers. For Yanga Giyose, the managing director of the emerging corporate and commercial law firm Giyose Incorporated Attorneys (GIA) situated in Morningside, Sandton, it was the inaccessibility of the corporate sector that turned out to be much harder than he had anticipated. “I expected at least some interest from corporates and medium-sized companies, so the lack of reception and response was surprising. There was a general reluctance to entertain even the most minimal opportunities for young lawyers,” he says Many of his peers would have turned back to the easier career path of aiming to become a partner in an already established law firm. But Yanga found himself motivated by thoughts of how far he had already come. He was raised by his single-parent mom in the small and quiet town of Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape in a home where they often had to make do with candles instead of electricity. After discovering a passion debating and presenting arguments in school, Yanga pursued his law degree at the University of Johannesburg and was admitted to the Gauteng bar in 2015. Two years into his legal career, Yanga decided to step out and start his own practice with a colleague. His main motivation was a desire for independence, at the time his employers were too reliant on Road Accident Fund cases, a stream of work he saw as uncertain. Yanga wanted to... --- - Published: 2025-06-27 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-streamline-your-business-operations-and-unlock-greater-profit/ - Categories: Business Tips Running a small business in South Africa particularly these days comes with its own set of challenges. Between rising input costs and increasingly price-sensitive customers, you can quickly find yourself between a rock and a hard place. If you feel like your bottom line is under more pressure than it can take, it might be time to streamline your business. At its core, operational efficiency is about removing unnecessary friction in your business and ensuring that every rand and every resource is working as hard as possible. Here’s how to go about it: Audit your current operations Before you can improve anything, you need to understand what’s actually going on. This means taking a hard look at all aspects of your business. Where are the bottlenecks and which processes are taking up the most time? It’s also useful to get feedback from employees and customers here as they often spot inefficiencies that business owners miss. A good operational audit will give you a clear picture of where your business stands and where the biggest opportunities for improvement lie. Simplify and standardise processes Complexity is the enemy of efficiency. The more steps it takes to get something done, the more time and resources it consumes. Streamlining means finding ways to reduce or eliminate unnecessary steps in your core processes. Start by documenting key workflows, such as onboarding a new client, fulfilling an order, or resolving a complaint. Once you have a clear process map, look for steps that can be simplified,... --- - Published: 2025-06-27 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-sustainability-edge-beyond-earth-day-why-going-green-is-good-for-business/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Adopting green practices can feel like a drop in the ocean of climate change for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), but as South Africa reportedly warms at twice the global average, every drop counts. The effects of climate change range from prolonged droughts and heatwaves to devastating floods and are already disrupting communities, infrastructure, and the economy. For SMEs, Shawn Charlie, Area Manager at Business Partners Limited, says these disruptions pose serious risks – from the breakdown of supply chains and energy insecurity to increased operating costs and lower customer confidence. “Yet, amid these challenges lies opportunity. Beyond Earth Day initiatives, SMEs are uniquely agile and well-positioned to implement sustainable changes that reduce risk, increase efficiency, and enhance brand loyalty. ” Locally, trends indicate that consumers increasingly prefer brands that take a stand on environmental issues, especially younger generations who now make up a growing share of the buying population. “If we’re serious about building a resilient economy, we must empower small businesses to contribute to the green transition,” Charlie says, offering five actionable, affordable strategies that SMEs can implement today: Cut energy usage Switch to LED lighting, invest in motion sensors, and use energy-efficient equipment. Where feasible, small-scale solar installations can provide long-term relief from rising energy costs and load shedding. Reduce waste Go paperless by digitising invoices, payroll, and other admin tasks. Encourage recycling at work and minimise packaging materials. Reconsider supply chains Partner with local or sustainably-minded suppliers to reduce transport emissions and increase traceability. Green your... --- - Published: 2025-06-13 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/calling-all-aspiring-young-entrepreneurs-enter-the-2025-sme-toolkit-business-plan-competition/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases Are you a young, aspiring entrepreneur? Do you know of a young entrepreneur with big dreams for business? Do you have a brilliant business idea that’s waiting to take off? Is your emerging business venture struggling to turn a profit? Or maybe you just need expert guidance to help develop your business plan? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the 2025 Business Partners SME Toolkit SA Business Plan competition for aspiring young entrepreneurs is for you! This competition is designed to empower and support young innovators like you, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level. At Business Partners Limited, we believe it is very important to lay a strong foundation when starting and running your own business. That is why we host the SME Toolkit SA Business Plan competition every year, in order to support and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. Launched in 2009, the competition opens for entries annually on Youth Day, aligning with our mission to empower young and aspiring business owners between the ages of 18 and 35. This year marks the 16th anniversary of the SME Toolkit SA competition, a milestone that brings with it a fresh opportunity for you to finally turn your business vision into reality and to realise your entrepreneurial dreams. The competition is divided into three phases: Phase 1: All participants who enter the competition will be invited to attend a workshop in one of the following key locations:... --- - Published: 2025-06-12 - Modified: 2025-06-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/the-sme-solution-to-youth-unemployment/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases With youth unemployment rising to 46,1% in the first quarter of 2025 – a 9,2 percentage increase over the past decade – South Africa faces a critical challenge. Traditional employment avenues are failing to absorb the country’s young jobseekers. While policy solutions remain important, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are playing an increasingly vital role in bridging the gap. SMEs, often described as the lifeblood of the economy, account for over 60% of employment in South Africa’s private sector. But beyond their economic footprint, these businesses are stepping up to shape the next generation of South African entrepreneurs – creating jobs, transferring skills, offering mentorship, and enabling access to funding and markets. This is according to Lawrance Ramotala, Area Manager at Business Partners Limited, who believes the contribution of small businesses to youth development is not only practical but deeply transformational. “In many cases, SMEs are the first to take a chance on young people, whether by hiring them as first-time employees, helping them launch their first business, or partnering with them as suppliers. What we’re seeing is a groundswell of youth entrepreneurship that’s rooted in community enterprise,” says Ramotala. This is particularly evident in township settings, where formal employment is often out of reach. In these areas, youth-led micro and small businesses are not only becoming viable alternatives to traditional work but also creating employment for others in their communities. The ripple effect is significant: one young entrepreneur launching a business can result in multiple new jobs, greater local... --- - Published: 2025-06-12 - Modified: 2025-06-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/three-reasons-why-diversity-gives-small-businesses-in-sa-a-competitive-edge/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited There is a strong case for diversity and inclusion in business – and not just among large corporates. Given the vital role that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in the South African economy, their potential to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse economic landscape should not be overlooked. Research shows that building diverse teams is so much more than a moral or ethical imperative. In an increasingly interconnected working world, diversity can translate into tangible business metrics. For example, in a study conducted by LinkedIn, 60% of respondents said that diversity within their sales team contributed to greater levels of success. In this particular study, ‘success’ was benchmarked across a number of different metrics. The study reveals that teams with more diversity were tied to higher sales conversion rates, higher revenue, better deal-making ability and better customer satisfaction. More diverse teams have also been found to outperform their peers in terms of non-revenue related metrics, such as better decision-making, higher levels of innovation, better talent retention and more effective problem-solving. Diversity in the workplace can also be a powerful way to expand and scale a business. To this point, research by the Harvard Business Review found that employees at diverse companies were 45% more likely to report that their company’s market share had grown and 70% reported that their company was able to expand into a new market. Within a small business, having a diverse team can be a... --- - Published: 2025-06-12 - Modified: 2025-06-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-south-african-small-businesses-can-compete-with-big-brands/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Competing with well-known brands can feel like an uphill battle. They have bigger budgets, broader reach, and stronger brand recognition. However, small businesses shouldn’t be discouraged – local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), especially, have unique advantages that can set them apart from larger, more established players. Here’s how to position your small business to compete and come out on top. Own your niche Big brands tend to go broad. As a small business, you can go deep. Find a focused niche that solves a specific need in a better, faster or more personalised way than your larger competitors. That might be offering tailored products, local insights, or a level of service that corporates simply can’t match. Instead of trying to be all things to all people, define who your ideal customer is and serve them with precision. The narrower your niche, the stronger your value proposition becomes. Personalise your service One of the most powerful tools small businesses can use is their ability to build real relationships with customers. Where big brands rely on customer relationship management (CRM) systems, small businesses can offer personal touchpoints, direct access to decision-makers and the kind of flexibility customers remember. This isn’t just a feel-good idea; it has financial implications. A loyal customer base that feels valued, even for business-to-business relationships, is more likely to refer others and less likely to switch, even if a cheaper alternative exists. Leverage your local knowledge In South... --- - Published: 2025-06-12 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-legacy-why-sas-youth-led-businesses-need-support-to-thrive/ - Categories: Client Stories, Media Centre, Media Releases South Africa’s youth face one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, but instead of waiting for the right opportunities to arise, some are creating their own. For Yanga Giyose, the reward lies not only in building a successful law firm from the ground up, but in inspiring others to do the same. Born in the small quiet town of Cofimvaba in Eastern Cape, Giyose’s story began like many others driven by bold ambition and limited resources. After completing his LLB at the University of Johannesburg, he faced the all-too-common struggle of securing articles. It took perseverance and multiple rejections before he could gain practical experience and eventually qualify as an attorney. The turning point came in 2017, when he registered his own firm, Giyose Incorporated Attorneys, following the closure of a previous partnership. The decision to go it alone was driven by a desire to reclaim control of his career and redefine what it meant to practise law. “I envisioned building a boutique firm with our own offices and a strong team, but more than that, I wanted to be in charge of how I worked, how I practised law, and to create an environment where legal work could be meaningful, empowering and enjoyable again,” says Giyose. It was about setting his own standards, shaping his own path, and building a practice that reflected his values and vision. But launching a business, particularly in the legal field, is not without its hurdles. Youth was not always an advantage... --- - Published: 2025-05-28 - Modified: 2025-05-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/challenges-and-opportunities-for-smes-for-the-year-ahead/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have had a tumultuous few years, affected by a broad spectrum of political and economic issues. Despite these challenges, many business owners managed to keep their businesses afloat, and some have even found opportunities for growth and development. A crucial factor in the success of many of these businesses was having a proactive plan to address the challenges they encountered. This is according to Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited, who unpacks the four major challenges SMEs continue to face and must find ways to navigate this year: Supply chain disruptions The 2024 national general election results were painted as a democratic milestone but brought, and continue to bring, uncertainty and fears of political instability. Geopolitical conflict also continues to affect supply chains, impacting global sentiment and lowering confidence levels among local SMEs. According to the PwC 2023 Global Risk Survey, supply chain disruptions were identified as the primary external contributor to company risk, a trend that persisted in 2024. The backlog at the Port of Durban, a key logistics hub, serves as a notable example of the significant delays affecting local rail and port operations. The recent increase in tariffs on South African exports to the United States will affect many South African SMEs in that value chain. Loadshedding While South Africa has enjoyed a prolonged period of (mostly) uninterrupted power supply, power outages were an ongoing issue up until the second quarter of 2024 with a daily average of... --- - Published: 2025-05-28 - Modified: 2025-05-28 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/five-tips-for-managing-a-remote-workforce/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Big corporations like Amazon, Starbucks, and Uber may be pushing employees back to the office, but that doesn’t mean the same approach works for all companies. Within the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) community, not all businesses can benefit from remote work. However, for those SMEs where remote work continues to offer significant advantages such as lower overheads, access to a broader talent pool, and greater flexibility for staff, there needs to be clear guidelines in place. Making remote work effective takes more than a solid internet connection. If you're considering a flexible work model, here are five practical tips to help you get the most out of your remote team. Set clear expectations from the outset Remote work doesn’t mean working without structure. If anything, structure becomes more important. That starts with setting clear expectations for working hours and accessibility, communication norms, deadlines and outputs. Everyone in your team should understand what’s expected of them – not only in terms of tasks, but also how and when to deliver them. This doesn’t mean micromanaging. It’s about giving your team the clarity they need to take ownership of their work. Make sure team members understand how their individual work contributes to broader business goals. A sense of purpose drives accountability and results. Use the right tools for communication and collaboration Working remotely shouldn’t feel like working in isolation. To stay connected, you need tools that suit your business’s size, style and... --- - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unlocking-prosperity-how-africa-month-offers-solutions-amid-global-trade-tensions/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases This May, it is entirely understandable for many business owners, especially those who trade internationally, to put things on hold as they anxiously wait for the effects of revisions in America’s trade policies on the world economy. But Joel Andrews, Regional Investment Manager for Business Partners International, proposes a different approach. Rather than simply hunker down, take some time during Africa Month to look . “The population of Africa is young, there is a thirst for advancement, knowledge, services, goods, capital and ideas,” says Joel. “It is a very exciting, high-energy space. ” Joel believes that the concept of Africa Month, which culminates in the anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (now known as the African Union (AU)) on 25 May 1963, has never been more relevant for business owners. As a period dedicated to focus, showcasing and collaboration, it comes at an opportune moment when countries are looking to strengthen regional trade ties in response to the tariff walls put up by the US. For Joel, the growth of Africa’s economy is symbolised by the sight of the expanding rail network spreading ever wider from Mombasa port as he flies into Kenya. “You can see it from the sky, railway lines on a massive scale, just huge numbers of containers. It’s happening,” he says. Business Partners International (BPI) finances business owners from regional offices in Kampala in Uganda, Kigali in Rwanda, Blantyre in Malawi and Windhoek in Namibia. Since its launch in 2006, BPI has... --- - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/entrepreneur-prepares-to-pass-on-the-baton-to-the-next-generation/ - Categories: Client Stories Building a wealth-generating business from scratch is hard and doing it in such a way that you can pass it on to your children is even harder. Many entrepreneurs aspire to this, but few achieve it. Children often have their own aspirations, which usually don’t involve taking over the business where they witnessed their parent’s prolonged struggles. Nocwaka Mazaleni, owner of the luxury Kwantu Guesthouses in Milnerton Ridge, Cape Town, is set to become one of those few entrepreneurs who can crown her entrepreneurial achievement with the act of handing over a thriving business to the next generation. After spending her whole career toiling in her businesses, Nocwaka is in the process of handing over the running of her guesthouses to her two sons. “I have been blessed,” she says, “They are so much better educated than I ever was. They are professional, and they are ready to take the business to the next level. ” One of her sons is already running the day-to-day operations of Nokwantu, a 34-bed complex of luxury guesthouses that Nocwaka has steadily built, room by room, over the past 20 years. And her other son works part-time in the business while finishing his articles in one of Cape Town’s law firms. It is an astounding achievement given Nocwaka’s childhood in the poverty-stricken Gugulethu township under the oppressive heel of apartheid. She started her first business sewing dresses in a single room, scarcely 15 km from where her Kwantu Guesthouses now stand. She soon became... --- - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unstoppable-entrepreneur-takes-on-a-few-quiet-property-development-projects/ - Categories: Client Stories An unmistakable mark of a true entrepreneur is someone who moves to a quiet coastal town for a “slower pace of life” and soon finds himself developing a 100-flat apartment block and an estate with 50 houses. The remarkable thing is that it truly is a slower pace for Eric Schultz, who built up a sizable civil engineering business in KwaZulu-Natal over 20 years before moving to Langebaan in the Western Cape’s west coast with his family. Eric says his pace back in KwaZulu-Natal was really frenetic, working on six or seven sites at any one time as a civils contractor for the construction giants such as Grinaker-LTA. He finished school at the age of 17 and immediately started his apprenticeship as a civil engineer. Within a few years on the job he had risen to the position of project manager and started contemplating the idea of starting his own company. When he won his first contract in his mid-20s, he resigned and never looked back. Eric says he built his business on a few core principles and good habits - deploying good teams and leaders on site, delegating, “and making sure you show your face on every site at least once a day”. A major breakthrough came when he secured a contract with the construction giant Grinaker-LTA, which led to a steady stream of additional contracts. In the beginning Eric rented all of his machinery, but after winning a significant earth-moving project, he began purchasing his own equipment. Eric’s... --- - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-build-a-strong-business-credit-profile-for-easier-access-to-funding-2/ - Categories: Business Tips The National Development Plan (NDP) envisions that by 2030, 90% of South Africa’s 11 million needed jobs will be created through SMEs. And yet, according to a report by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), only 12% of South African SMEs have access to formal funding channels. This limited access to finance remains one of the country’s leading causes of business failure. Capable entrepreneurs with promising businesses are often held back simply because their credit profile doesn’t do them justice. So, whether you're just starting or have been operating for years, here are six ways to strengthen your business credit profile and improve your chances of securing funding. Formalise your business Around 1,79 million South African SMEs are currently operating informally . Even for emerging small businesses, failing to formally register your business not only limits access to funding, it also prevents you from building a credible financial track record. The newly launched Spaza Shop Support Fund illustrates that formalising your business is crucial, as it restricts funding for unregistered enterprises to below R80,000. If you haven’t already, it is critical to register your business with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), open a business bank account, and ensure you are fully compliant with SARS. Don’t forget to keep your personal and business finances separate. Not only does this make it easier to track performance, but it also helps establish your business as a standalone entity in the eyes of credit providers. Build a consistent financial record Financiers assess... --- - Published: 2025-05-20 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/smooth-business-handovers-a-survival-guide-for-sa-entrepreneurs/ - Categories: Business Tips, Media Centre, Media Releases In today’s dynamic business environment, leadership transitions are inevitable. Whether due to a C-suite reshuffle, a merger, or an acquisition by a larger group, periods of transition can be destabilising for businesses of any size. In fact, research based on over 40 000 corporate acquisitions spanning over four decades has shown that 70% of mergers and acquisitions fail to fulfil their expectations. Amogelang Montane, Human Resources Business Partner at Business Partners Limited, believes that effective leadership is at the heart of any successful business transition. “Any big change, when not managed properly, can result in operational inefficiencies, employee uncertainty, and even a knock to revenue. However, many of these results are often avoidable, and with a well-planned handover strategy, it’s possible for your business to make it through these times of uncertainty. ” While any change in leadership can be challenging to manage, Montane notes that mergers and acquisitions require particularly careful consideration – especially when a smaller business is being acquired by a larger company or corporation. “When a business merges with another or is acquired by a larger group, the shift in company culture, operational processes, and management structures can cause significant disruption to the ‘norm’ employees have become used to. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), in particular, may struggle to integrate into a larger corporate framework without a clear roadmap. ” Montane lists four key considerations for entrepreneurs to ensure business continuity during these types of transitionary periods. Clear communication Transparent communication with employees, customers, and other... --- - Published: 2025-05-20 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-side-hustle-to-full-time-business-5-practical-tips-for-small-business-owners-taking-the-leap/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Running a business on the side while holding down a full-time job has become increasingly common in South Africa. For many, it starts as a way to supplement income or pursue a passion project. But for some, the side hustle gathers enough momentum to raise a serious question: could this become my full-time livelihood? Taking the leap from part-time to full-time entrepreneur is a big decision. Done right, it can unlock new levels of growth and freedom. But it also carries significant risk - particularly in today’s unpredictable economy. If you’re thinking about taking the plunge, here are five practical tips to make the transition smoother and more sustainable. Get clear on your finances Before you resign from your day job, take a hard look at the numbers. Is your business currently generating enough profit to cover your personal and operational expenses? If not, how long will it take to reach that point — and do you have savings to carry you in the meantime? Aim to build at least three to six months’ worth of personal and business expenses in cash reserves. This buffer gives you time to adjust, test new strategies, and survive any early setbacks without panic. Also, think ahead about tax. When you become a full-time entrepreneur, you’ll need to manage your own PAYE and provisional tax. Speak to a professional to set up a process that works from day one. Formalise your operations Side hustles often... --- - Published: 2025-05-12 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/four-ways-to-prepare-your-hospitality-business-for-a-south-african-winter/ - Categories: Business Tips, Media Centre, Media Releases Tourism is a key economic driver in South Africa with its beaches, nature reserves, and bustling hospitality scene contributing approximately 8. 8% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as of 2024. But as winter approaches, ill-prepared businesses struggle to keep the lights on. In June 2023, hotel occupancy rates in Cape Town reached 53%, while most hotel accommodations across South Africa were sold out in December of that same year. “Summer, especially in coastal areas, may be peak hospitality season but winter can also hold opportunities for the astute and well-prepared business owner,” says Kevan Govender, Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited, who shares key strategies to help hospitality businesses thrive during the winter slow-down. Understand seasonal trends Like weather patterns, consumer behaviour can also inform trends forecasts. Winter historically sees more interest in warm indoor spaces, comfort food, warm beverages, and winter getaways in the countryside. It also raises interest in health-related goods as the rate of colds and flu increases. “If you know what’s coming, you know how to prepare,” says Govender. “Kauai is a brand that adjusts its offering seasonally and has found phenomenal success with its winter menus that feature warm bowls, soups, and a signature ‘floo juice’. Look at the data and make informed adjustments in your business. ” Invest in maintenance Winter is the ideal time to deep clean, repair general wear and tear, and upgrade rooms or appliances. Business owners should prioritise preventive maintenance on heating systems, plumbing, and backup power... --- - Published: 2025-05-12 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/building-a-winning-brand-how-small-businesses-can-stand-out-in-a-crowded-market/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited In a country like South Africa, where approximately small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) are competing for the attention of the same pool of cash-strapped customers, building a memorable brand is critical for success. Without it, you risk blending into the noise and being chosen based on price alone – a race to the bottom that no business can afford. The good news is that building a winning brand isn’t necessarily about big budgets or expensive ad campaigns. It’s about clarity, consistency and connection. Here’s how small businesses can create a standout brand in a crowded and competitive market: Start with what makes you different Every successful brand is built on a clear value proposition - a compelling answer to the question: Why should a customer choose you over someone else? Maybe you offer faster turnaround times, personalised service, or a unique product range. Perhaps you have a deep understanding of your local community, or a founder story that resonates with your audience. Whatever your differentiator is, you need to clearly define it and build your brand around it. Don’t try to be everything to everyone. The most powerful brands are focused, specific, and unapologetically clear about who they serve and what they stand for. Be consistent across all touchpoints Your brand isn’t just a pretty logo or a catchy slogan, it’s the sum of every interaction a customer has with your business. That includes your website, packaging, invoices, signage, social... --- - Published: 2025-05-04 - Modified: 2025-05-04 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/beyond-the-bottom-line-how-to-motivate-engage-and-retain-small-business-employees/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited There was a time when a gold watch marked the end of a successful career. You joined a company, stayed loyal for decades, and were rewarded for your time – but not necessarily your impact. However, as leadership expert Simon Sinek pointed out back in 2023, that era is long gone. Today’s workforce, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are not motivated by long-term promises or end-of-career rewards. Instead, they crave purpose, recognition, and work that reflects their personal values and ethics. As we mark Worker’s Day on 1 May, it is essential for small business owners to rethink what truly drives employee loyalty, productivity and motivation, especially if they want to retain top talent in 2025. In today’s landscape, financial metrics are no longer the primary focus. Purpose over pay Gen Z and Millennials are redefining what success looks like in the workplace. Career growth is no longer tied to tenure or job titles, but to a sense of purpose and personal fulfilment. A recent HR Future article notes that 63% of Gen Z professionals consider growth opportunities as a key workplace factor – but this growth needs to be transparent, merit-based, and aligned with their values. These generations want to work for companies that do more than just generate profit. They’re drawn to businesses that stand for something – whether that’s sustainability, mental health advocacy, community upliftment, or ethical leadership. According to Human8, over 70% of Gen Z employees in... --- - Published: 2025-04-24 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/five-signs-that-your-business-plan-needs-to-be-revisited-in-todays-economy/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited A business plan is never set in stone. It should reflect the realities of your operating environment, especially considering how quickly economic conditions seem to be shifting in 2025. While some economists remain optimistic, predicting growth of up to 2. 1% this year, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) recently trimmed its 2025 forecast down to 1. 7%, citing ongoing supply constraints and weak demand. With the effects of global trade tensions, rising costs and looming tax increases already being felt across the small to medium enterprise (SME) sector, it may be necessary to revisit your business plan. Here are five signs that your plan may no longer be fit for purpose in today’s economic environment: Your revenue assumptions haven’t changed If your plan still assumes consistent or growing customer demand based on pre-2025 expectations, it may be out of step with reality. As of now, VAT is set to increase to 15. 5% from 1 May and again to 16% in 2026. This will erode consumer buying power and place added pressure on input costs - particularly for SMEs that are not VAT-registered or that supply end-consumers directly. At the same time, electricity tariffs are increasing by 12. 7% for Eskom direct customers, and at least 11. 32% for municipal customers from July. This, combined with the potential return of load-shedding, is likely to impact both costs and productivity. If your projections don’t reflect these pressures, your forecasts could be... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-side-hustle-to-passion-project-the-mahuza-journey-in-student-accommodation/ - Categories: Client Stories When Candice and Basil Mahuza first opened their home to six students, they were simply looking for a bit of extra income. Little did they know that their side hustle would ignite into a passion project that would transform their lives. Nine years later, their side hustle has blossomed into a thriving business, housing 50 students across several multi-million-rand properties. Candice never set out to be a business owner. In fact, both she and Basil have always worked for others and are currently both employed, Candice at a large insurance company and Basil as a project manager in a government department. But there was something about the presence of those first six students in their house in Parkdene, George, that sparked an entrepreneurial spirit in them. Driven by the growing demand for student accommodation from the expanding Nelson Mandela University campus, the Mahuza’s saw an opportunity. But for Candice, it became about much more than just revenue. “I can’t describe how fulfilling it is to get to know these young people,” she says. “For many of them, it’s their first time away from home. We tell them they have the responsibilities of young adults now, but we also care deeply about their safety and success. ” The Nelson Mandela University has strict accreditation requirements for student accommodation, requiring properties to be fully furnished, equipped with 24-hour internet access, hot water and much more. However, Candice and Basil’s dedication goes far beyond these requirements. They are so committed to enriching the... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/freedom-day-a-beacon-of-hope-for-south-africas-entrepreneurs/ - Categories: Media Centre While Freedom Day, which is commemorated annually on 27 April, is arguably the most universally and fondly celebrated of all the South African public holidays, there is one community for whom the day has an especially profound resonance - South Africa’s entrepreneurs. There are several reasons why many business owners feel a deep connection with Freedom Day, says Kevan Govender, Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited. The first Freedom Day in 1994 marked the moment when whole industries, business districts, markets and opportunities opened up for all South African citizens. For the first time in the history of South Africa a wave of peace and optimism swept over the nation, creating an environment where all businesses could flourish. But more important than that, says Kevan, is the fact that the career of almost all business owners is a reflection of the story of South Africa and its struggle for freedom. Building a business is a very hard, slow struggle, and someone who chooses that path can identify with the generation who fought against apartheid and colonialism. They recognise the kind of resilience shown by the struggle generation when the odds were stacked against them. Much like South Africa’s journey up to 1994, every entrepreneur strives for freedom, autonomy, and for choosing their own destiny. Throughout his years at Business Partners Limited and even today, Kevan has witnessed the relentless struggle of countless South Africans who bravely chose the path of entrepreneurship. Many would have launched their businesses much earlier,... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/egg-cellent-business-tips-for-making-the-most-of-easter-holidays/ - Categories: Business Tips The key to a business’s success over the Easter holiday is planning and preparation, says Shawn Charlie, Area Manager at Business Partners Limited, not only for businesses whose sales boom over the period, but also for businesses that see a decrease a decrease in trading activities or shut down completely. During Easter many retail and service businesses see a surge in sales, while construction and manufacturing sectors often pause operations. One factor all industries have in common is that the March-April sales pattern differ significantly from other months. Understanding those differences and being able to predict them more accurately are what allow businesses to maximise their Easter opportunities. 6 tips for business owners to make the most of the Easter period: Understand cultural landscape: The Easter period remains one of the most important family holidays in South Africa, thanks to its key dates having the status of official public holidays. Its importance as a consumer event will therefore always remain part of the business landscape. While 80% of South Africans identify as Christian, many communities have shifted from the religious aspects of Easter to a more general family holiday. These trends can subtly influence spending patterns. Business owners who stay attuned to such cultural currents are best positioned to capitalise on the Easter consumer boom. Start preparing early: Unlike Christmas, the dates of the Easter holiday change each year. Generally, Easter falls in March instead of April once every four years. Its proximity to other significant dates such as Human... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-ruin-to-rebirth-a-familys-business-revival/ - Categories: Client Stories It is rare to find a family business story that vividly demonstrates how the actions of a financier can either save a business or lead to its downfall. Jermaine Dennison was happily working in the water infrastructure supplies business of his father, Ronnie Dennison, when calamity struck. In 2015, an order to supply irrigation equipment to Zambia had gone wrong and a farmer sued the Dennisons for the loss of his harvest. A court case followed and the business, based in Olifantsfontein, was placed in business rescue. Just as they were trading themselves out of trouble according to the well-prepared rescue plan, their bank abruptly decided to pull the plug. “On the Friday afternoon there was a substantial amount of money in their bank account and on the Monday morning less than a third of the amount was left. The bank just waited for the money to flow back into the business before cancelling all our lines of credit,” says Jermaine. The result was liquidation. Instead of seeking a new job, Jermaine chose to rebuild from the remnants of his father's company. Teaming up with his father, Ronnie, and a dedicated coworker, Cerbert Selowa, they launched Sekunjalo Piping Projects. With Ronnie's seed capital, they purchased the remaining stock from the liquidator, setting the stage for a remarkable comeback. The key to the success of their new venture, however, was to find a way to buy the warehouse from the liquidator. It would allow the new venture to trade almost seamlessly... --- - Published: 2025-04-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-sa-smes-can-prepare-for-the-easter-weekend-madness/ - Categories: Business Tips, Media Centre, Media Releases Consumer spending and card transaction data consistently show a spike in economic activity over the Easter long weekend, especially in the tourism, retail and hospitality sectors. For many South African entrepreneurs and small businesses, this presents a golden opportunity to expand reach and boost revenue amid increasingly challenging trading conditions. This year, SMEs are presented with an additional opportunity to boost sales with a second long weekend in April, courtesy of the Freedom Day holiday. However, a surge in demand can just as easily overwhelm unprepared businesses, resulting in long queues, stock shortages, and disgruntled staff and consumers. This is according to Friedrich Meisenholl, Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited, who urges local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to plan for this high-traffic weekend. “Too many businesses approach peak periods reactively,” says Meisenholl. “The better approach is to analyse historical sales data and use that to forecast demand. If Easter was a particularly busy time last year, assume the same - or more - this year, and make sure you’re adequately stocked and staffed for it. ” He adds that retailers and hospitality businesses should begin stocking up on popular or seasonal items well in advance, considering any potential supply chain delays around public holidays. “For restaurants or cafes, streamlining the menu to feature high-margin, easy-to-prepare items can help reduce pressure on kitchen staff without sacrificing customer satisfaction. ” High customer volumes can also mean longer trading hours and greater staff demands. To manage this, Meisenholl says business owners... --- - Published: 2025-04-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-to-build-a-strong-business-credit-profile-for-easier-access-to-funding/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited The National Development Plan (NDP) envisions that by 2030, 90% of South Africa’s 11 million needed jobs will be created through small to medium enterprises (SMEs). This month, government launched a new Spaza Shop Support Fund to add to the many funds available in South Africa. And yet, according to a report by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), only 12% of South African SMEs have access to formal funding channels. This limited access to finance remains one of the country’s leading causes of business failure. Capable entrepreneurs with promising businesses are often held back simply because their credit profile doesn’t do them justice. So, whether you're just starting or have been operating for years, here are six ways to strengthen your business credit profile and improve your chances of securing funding. Formalise your business Around 1. 79 million South African SMEs are currently operating informally. Failing to formally register your business not only limits access to funding; it also prevents you from building a credible financial track record. The newly launched Spaza Shop Support Fund illustrates that formalising your business is crucial, as it restricts funding for unregistered enterprises to below R80,000. If you haven’t already, it is critical to register your business with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), open a business bank account, and ensure you are fully compliant with SARS. Don’t forget to keep your personal and business finances separate. Not only does this make it... --- - Published: 2025-04-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/ai-ai-ai-how-to-leverage-generative-ai-without-losing-your-touch-of-humanity/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases South Africa is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence (AI), with adoption rates surpassing those of many developed nations. Recent data indicates that over 60% of South African workers regularly use generative AI, outpacing countries like France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This swift integration reflects a broader trend of digital transformation within the nation. However, a substantial portion of the workforce are concerned about job displacement, fearing their roles could be automated by AI. In response to these concerns, the South African government and the private sector are taking proactive measures like the introduction of the National Artificial Intelligence Policy Framework in 2024, which aims to harness AI's potential for economic growth while upholding societal wellbeing. Faiez Hartley, Head of IT at Business Partners Limited, shares insights on how businesses can navigate this balance effectively: “Businesses need to adopt a collaborative approach to incorporating AI systems into human expertise to boost our nation’s productivity and customer satisfaction without compromising the essential human touch that defines quality service. ” Embracing AI to enhance human capabilities For small businesses, the integration of generative AI can streamline various processes. For instance, AI enables quicker and more accurate data analysis, which facilitates faster decision-making and service delivery. This technological support empowers employees to dedicate more time to personalised client interactions and implement more effective solutions to client problems thus building stronger relationships with clients. "By automating routine tasks, AI allows your team to focus on more complex and creative aspects of their roles,... --- - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-04-11 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/harnessing-the-gig-economy-a-practical-guide-for-smes-to-leverage-freelance-talent/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited Five years on from the beginning of lockdown and the world of work is not what it used to be. Apart from the rise of remote working, the pandemic years brought about a rate of technological advancement in a few years that is equivalent to the previous 50. While many in-person businesses closed, the gig economy exploded with 2. 1 million workers going into freelancing in 2020 alone. In South Africa, while this migration was motivated by unavoidable retrenchments and widespread economic instability, across the world, another mass exodus from traditional work occurred in 2021 when workers voluntarily left their jobs driven by a desire for better opportunities and improved work-life balance in what is now referred to as the Great Resignation. The benefits of hiring freelancers The hybrid model became the go-to strategy when lockdown was lifted but recently there’s been an increase in Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates from companies of all sizes. Those who have experienced a taste of remote work, however, are creating their own hybrid models completely independent of permanent employment working out of local co-working spaces with other like-minded people. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), this shift to contract work, as opposed to permanent employment, holds numerous benefits. I have highlighted three of these benefits that I believe are most significant: Cost savings Businesses can reduce overhead costs such as salaries, fringe benefits, and office space by hiring freelancers only when needed. Access to skills on-demand... --- - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/harness-linkedin-for-your-small-business-success-a-step-by-step-guide/ - Categories: Business Tips In today’s fast-paced business landscape, success isn’t just about what you know, but who knows you. With over 830 million members worldwide, LinkedIn offers more than just networking opportunities, it’s a powerful tool for brand building, lead generation, and industry influence. Here are five ways to use LinkedIn strategically for your small business. Build a compelling profile Your company’s LinkedIn profile is vital—it’s the first impression potential clients, partners, and investors will have of you. Think of it as your digital storefront. A well-optimized profile conveys professionalism and credibility. Ensure your business profile is complete with a professional logo, an engaging banner, and a clear description of your services. Highlight your unique offerings and core mission while incorporating industry-relevant keywords to boost your visibility. Don’t forget to enhance your personal profile as the owner or managing director. A strong personal presence builds connections and strengthens your business's credibility. Showcase your experience and achievements to position yourself as an expert in your field. Make every interaction count—investing time in your profile can yield substantial rewards. Regularly post relevant content Content is the currency of LinkedIn. The more valuable content you share, the more engagement you can generate, and the more trust you can build with your audience. Use LinkedIn to establish your business as an industry authority by posting regular updates, articles, or videos that offer insights, tips, and news relevant to your field. Consistency is key. Aim to post at least once a week to maintain visibility on the platform.... --- - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/is-email-marketing-dead-unpacking-the-latest-trends-in-marketing-for-your-sme/ - Categories: Business Tips, Media Centre, Media Releases By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited With 4. 37 billion users worldwide, email persists as a core digital marketing channel. The question is, with the evolution of how businesses communicate with consumers, is email marketing still effective? Almost every new communication app has claimed it will eliminate email. Slack, the most notorious of these claimants, marketed itself as the “email killer” but since the company was acquired by Salesforce in 2021 their approach has become more integrative and focuses on seamless collaboration as opposed to outright replacement. In other words, it seems Slack couldn’t beat email, so they joined them. Cutting through the noise in 2025 One of the key trends that stands out from Native VML’s 2025 Tomorrow’s Commerce report is that “optichannel is the new omnichannel”. Omnichannel refers to your brand being visible on every available marketing platform, whereas optichannel is a more focused and strategic selection of channels that prioritises meaningful presence and optimises personalised customer journeys. Essentially, consumers are running away from the always-on nature of chat, social media, and other sources of digital overload causing mental and emotional exhaustion or tech fatigue, and business leaders agree. In fact, 47% of those surveyed indicated that they have too many channels to manage effectively. This is what’s driving the ‘Disconnect Economy’ where both individuals and businesses are reducing digital engagement in favour of offline, real-world activities, relationships, and mental wellbeing. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have a real opportunity to be on the right... --- - Published: 2025-03-31 - Modified: 2025-03-31 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/funding-options-what-will-work-best-for-your-small-business/ - Categories: Business Tips By Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited One of the biggest hurdles for any entrepreneur is securing the right type of funding to turn their ideas into reality or to grow their business. With so many financing options available these days, it can be overwhelming to determine the best fit. The truth is that no single funding option is inherently better than another as each comes with its own benefits, trade-offs and considerations. So, how do you know which one is right for you and your business? Here’s a breakdown of five of the most common business funding options and what they offer. Traditional bank loans Banks have historically been the go-to source of financing for anything, including businesses. A traditional bank loan typically requires collateral, a solid credit history, and a detailed business plan. For business owners who want to maintain full control of their company, this type of funding is ideal as banks do not take or request equity in your business. Interest rates are also generally lower than those of alternative lenders, but the application process can be lengthy, with red tape processes, and approval is not guaranteed – especially for newer businesses without a proven financial track record. Small business financiers Dedicated small business loan providers, such as Business Partners Limited, cater specifically to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Small business financiers typically provide more flexible lending criteria than banks and may focus on factors like business potential, the entrepreneur’s experience rather than just... --- - Published: 2025-03-31 - Modified: 2025-04-03 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/sa-smes-optimistic-about-2025-economic-climate-but-will-it-last/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) entered 2025 with an encouraging sense of optimism. This is according to the latest SME confidence Index¹, conducted by Business Partners Limited, which reveals that over 58% of respondents felt optimistic about the economic climate in 2025. David Morobe, Executive General Manager: Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited, notes that this surge in confidence is a positive shift for a sector that has weathered significant economic uncertainty in recent years. “SMEs have displayed resilience and renewed hope for business growth in 2025, supported by factors such as the first interest rate cut since 2020 and lower inflation,” he says. Confidence indicators show positive trends Year-on-year, SME confidence improved across multiple areas. Levels of confidence that the South African economy will be conducive to business growth in the next 12 months increased by 9 percentage points, reaching 69%, while confidence levels that SMEs will experience business growth in the next 12 months rose to 84%, a 6-percentage point increase year-on-year. Confidence levels in access to business finance also climbed to 64% - up by 7 percentage points year-on-year – while levels of confidence in finding skilled staff improved to 72%, up by 3 percentage points year-on-year. Despite these gains, confidence in certain key areas remains subdued. SME confidence in South Africa’s labour laws supporting business growth declined by 4 percentage points year-on-year to 59%. Whereas confidence in government efforts to foster SME development increased by 5 percentage points year-on-year, it dropped 3 percentage points... --- - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/industry-knowledge-entrepreneurs-most-valuable-asset-advises-grant/ - Categories: Client Stories Sometimes the most valuable asset of a business is also its most intangible. The knowledge collected in the mind of the business owner, from the technical know-how to who the local players are in the industry, can far outstrip the value of its machines or premises. Grant Barratt, owner of RHB Marketing, a supplier of industrial gearboxes to the heart of the South African economy, recently bought his first business premises in Sebenza on the East Rand with the help of Business Partners Limited. The building, which houses RHB Marketing and a handful of tenant businesses, is worth millions of rands, but it can be argued that the knowledge that Grant has built up over thirty years of operating in his industry, is worth far more than that. RHB Marketing fulfils the role of a matchmaker. All over the industrial heartland of Gauteng, and as far afield as Namibia and Zimbabwe, production and maintenance managers need the gearboxes that operate their production lines replaced, refurbished, improved or repaired. Most of them, at one stage or other over the past thirty years, have dealt with Grant, tapping his extensive knowledge of the suppliers and refurbishers of industrial gearboxes locally and internationally. It works the other way around as well, if an engineering outfit somewhere in Gauteng buys second-hand industrial gearboxes on auction, they turn to Grant to find out which factory in his vast network could benefit from it. Thirty-six years ago, after completing his schooling in Johannesburg, Grant started in... --- - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/how-business-partners-limited-and-its-community-of-entrepreneurs-build-human-rights-in-south-africa/ - Categories: Media Centre, Media Releases In the vigorous buzz created by all the industrial, retail and service businesses financed by Business Partners Limited throughout South Africa, it is easy to forget just how embedded the financier’s activities are in the national effort to contribute to human rights as a way of life in the country. If you read between the lines of all the spreadsheets predicting profitability and business growth for the myriad of Business Partners Limited clients, you can discern an organisation committed to restoring dignity and freedom to all South Africans, says David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited. David believes that Human Rights Day, which is celebrated on 21 March, is a good opportunity for South Africans to reflect how the efforts of entrepreneurs to grow their businesses is deeply rooted in cultivating a culture that respects and promotes the right to pursue opportunity and thereby an equitable society. Human Rights Day is commemorated annually on the date of the Sharpeville massacre, where 69 people died and 180 were wounded when police fired on a peaceful crowd protesting against pass laws. The day captures the essence of the struggle of South Africans for an inclusive, non-racial democracy. Human Rights Day celebrates the full range of rights won through that struggle, from the right to human dignity, language and culture, equality, life, education, and the right to vote. But for David it is significant that the Sharpeville protest at its core was driven by economic concerns - for... --- - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-19 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/from-setback-to-success-how-sudden-inspiration-built-tanyas-beauty-business/ - Categories: Client Stories Tanya Parsons was at a very low point when a sudden leap of faith set her on a pioneering path to success in a sector that she would never have thought she could find a home in - the beauty industry. She was feeling miserable because of her husband’s six-month work stint in Namibia and frustrated at the lack of promotion at the tracking company she worked for. Her video shop in her hometown of Boksburg had succumbed with the rest of the video-rental industry and led to her sequestration. As a bit of self-care therapy, she decided to treat herself to a new slimming therapy called laser lipolysis (ultrasound cavitation) that she came across online. She was highly sceptical but drove an hour to the other side of Johannesburg for the session. The exceptional results of the treatment had such a great impact on Tanya that she made the spontaneous decision to start her own salon. She had no experience in the beauty industry, and even less knowledge of the highly technical treatment that uses laser light to break down fat cells so that they can be eliminated by the body. Tanya’s profound faith led her to interpret the experience as a divine calling. In just six weeks she had done a huge amount of research, acquired a good quality laser lipolysis machine, went for training, converted a room in their Boksburg house into a salon and treated her first client. And over the next fourteen years she never... --- - Published: 2025-03-17 - Modified: 2025-06-09 - URL: https://www.businesspartners.co.za/unlocking-success-five-ways-to-optimise-customer-centricity/ - Categories: Business Tips Entrepreneurs often believe that with the right business idea and strategy, success is inevitable. While these factors are important, sustained business growth ultimately hinges on customer centricity – putting your customers at the heart of everything you do. In today’s competitive market, customer loyalty is no longer guaranteed. Research shows that of consumers worldwide have switched brands merely because they enjoy experimenting. Prioritising customer-centricity is critical to not only improve retention but also for keeping your business top-of-mind. Here are five ways you can make customer centricity a core part of your business strategy. Listen actively – engage meaningfully Too many businesses make assumptions about their customers without taking the time to listen. A customer-centric business actively gathers feedback and acts on it. This means conducting regular surveys, monitoring social media sentiment, and encouraging direct conversations with customers. Beyond just collecting feedback, businesses should show customers they are being heard. If multiple clients complain about slow response times, for example, addressing this concern proactively demonstrates that their input matters. Engagement should feel personal and genuine, not transactional. This builds trust and strengthens relationships over time. Align your offering with customer needs Businesses that succeed in the long term are those that evolve with their customers’ demands, interests and needs. Rather than pushing a static product or service, customer-centric companies refine their offerings based on market trends and client pain points. A practical way to do this is through customer journey mapping, understanding how a customer interacts with your business from... --- ---