7 Holiday marketing ideas for SMEs

‘Tis the season to be jolly. As the twinkly lights are put up and everything becomes covered in red and green, people start to get ready to celebrate the holidays. But how can your small business stand out in the sea of red and green?

3 of the biggest small business festive fails and how to avoid them

For South Africans, the warmer weather has arrived, and shoppers are keen to embrace the outdoors. And of course, the festive season also means family time, which gives many an extra reason to shop.

How small businesses should plan for quiet months

Currently, many small businesses are welcoming the ‘busy season’. Depending on their products and services, the festive rush makes a big difference for some business owners, especially if they have fewer customers...

5 tips to help you navigate customs for your business

One of the most exciting things about growing your business is finding new suppliers and customers abroad. With customs being a process that you’re going to experience to facilitate shipping abroad, let us show you...

Keeping up with a changing cybersecurity landscape

CISOs face a bigger attack surface than ever – and the talent shortage and ever-evolving threat of ransomware and phishing aren’t helping. Find out how to respond effectively to these and other cybersecurity trends in this e-book...

The new 60/40 model: The ideal budget split to drive retail traffic

E-commerce retail is expected to grow faster than its in-store equivalent. For omnichannel retailers wishing to maximise the potential of this opportunity, they need to know which marketing channels will most efficiently drive growth

Unlock your growth potential, scale and do more for your business

Join Lesego Mpakanyane and Ingrid Mintera (Vodacom Financial Services) in this LIVE interactive Q&A session as they discuss the global shift to enhance digital presence and how this presents an opportunity for growth.

Business Boost :: Success isn't simply a product of doing more

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) talk about how success is determined not only by the habits, beliefs and commitments we take on but more what we let go of.

The 6 P’s of marketing

Have you rated your company against the six P’s of marketing? Do you know the significant influence this can have on your entire business? It goes far further into the organisation make up than just in the marketing department.

Digital marketing for e-commerce

You’ve got an online business that you want to ramp up or really start getting some traction on – great! Now you want to start looking at how to market what you sell. Even better!

How to speed up your success going into 2023

As we are now closing in on 2023, business owners and entrepreneurs everywhere need to uplift their game and fine-tune strategies so as to succeed beyond all expectations.

Lessons on building a local brand from the ground up

Before the onset of COVID-19, trend forecasters predicted that South Africa’s pet care economy would soon outpace other emerging markets.

The occupier of a property has a legal duty to prevent foreseeable harm to persons visiting the property

In a November judgment in Lakay v Minister of Justice & Another 2022 ZAWCHC 221, the court confirmed that the occupier of a property has a legal duty to prevent foreseeable harm to persons visiting the property.

Innovate and thrive – unlocking digitisation opportunities for your business

Companies that adapted and rolled out digital solutions were able to survive the height of the pandemic while those that still relied on old ways of working withered under the immense pressure.

Witness Champions in the Making

Be inspired and watch champions in the making at the 2022 South African Small Business Awards.

Meet the 2022 National Woman in Business Champion

In this interview, Mike Anderson chats to the 2022 National Small Business Champion - Sasha Knott from Job Crystal.

Meet the 2022 National Startup Champion

In this interview, Mike Anderson chats to the 2022 National Startup Champion - Velly Bosega from Startwise.

Meet the 2022 National Startup Champion

In this interview, Mike Anderson chats to the 2022 National Startup Champion - Sammy Mhaule from Kicks Sportwear.

Meet the 2022 National Small Business Champion

In this interview, Mike Anderson chats to the 2022 National Small Business Champion - Iain Emerson from Network Configurations.

Meet the 2022 National Entrepreneur Champion

On 17 November 2022, at the 2022 South African Small Business Awards, Dumisani Mahlangu (founder of Chepa Streetwear) was announced as the 2022 National Entrepreneur Champion.

EVENT COMING UP: Microsoft for Startups

Microsoft for Startups is here to make life easier and more productive for Founders. Join us for a free 1-day event in Cape Town on 01 Dec 2022. Register today.

Breaking News: The winners of the #SmallBizAwardsSA have been announced

The National Small Business Chamber (NSBC) is thrilled to announce the winners of the 14th annual South African Small Business Awards.

What it takes to be a champion

Do you dream of being successful? Then you must want it. Want it as badly as your next breath. To go after it with a clear vision, fuelled by a burning desire for nothing less. Willing to take that ultimate risk and face the possibility of failure...

How to step into the digital economy for SMEs

The digital economy has been a hot topic in recent years. Where it was once seen as a “nice-to-have” for businesses, it is increasingly becoming an essential part of operating a business.

The way we work isn’t working. How do we fix it?

The hope was once that computers would help people to work smarter and more efficiently. With the advent of the network society, some 10 years ago, it was also believed that people’s options would increase and thereby empower them.

Innovate and thrive – unlocking digitization opportunities for your business

Since COVID-19, we have seen how much of a difference a digital strategy and capabilities can have on a business. Companies that adapted and rolled out digital solutions were able to survive the height of the pandemic...

Where does cyber security fit into the risk ladder for a business?

Cyber risk has become a major risk over the last few years, and today it has become a priority for many companies based on size and sector. From a regulatory standpoint, it’s an area that regulators and rating agencies around...

Top considerations when upgrading your business phone system

We cannot emphasise the importance of a reliable business telephone system enough. 60% of companies admit that business phone systems and live agents are their most urgent investment priorities.

Modernise your security operations

As attackers develop modern attack techniques, it’s imperative that security teams work to continually modernise their security operations to stay prepared for adversaries.

Interview :: Business Boost - The 2022 South African Small Business Awards Top 20 Announced

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) discuss the #SmallBizAwardsSA and announce the 'TOP 20' Award Winners.

4 tips to guide you on your way to becoming a successful entrepreneur

For some, the prospect of taking a risk and stepping out into the sometimes complex maze that is the South African SME sector is too daunting. And for others, it is a golden opportunity that is not to be missed.

How a consolidated security stack can reduce your risks and costs

Technology stacks for security have evolved into a jumbled mix of point solutions as security teams address multiple threat types coming through a variety of endpoints, apps, services and networks.

What Google is doing to help brands build resilience and drive results

In February 2022, Google unveiled an ambitious product road map for its advertising technologies, focused on improving automation, measurement, and privacy.

South Africa’s festive season: A summer like no other

For South Africans, the holiday season coincides with the beginning of summer and serves as a year-end break for students and several professions. Factors like the increased amounts of free time, families and friends being reunited...

10 top tips for small business email etiquette

With an estimated 319.6 billion emails being sent every day in 2021 and this number is believed to continue to rise; it has become critical to send emails which will be opened and read. But what are the top tips for small business etiquette?

And the winners of the 2022 South African Small Business Awards are…

It’s that time of year again when the NSBC announces the names of the ‘Top 20’ Award Winners. It’s never an easy task, given the sheer number of exceptional South Africans who have created thriving and innovative businesses.

Perfect your B2B sales strategy

As more and more decision-makers become digital-first buyers, the B2B sales strategies of the past need to be adapted to meet these buyers where they’re at.

What is dropshipping and how can you get started?

For those of us who are excited at the prospect of entering the world of e-commerce, dropshipping holds a lot of appeal. The reason is that there are relatively low barriers to entry in starting a dropshipping business.

SME financing 101: Knowing your options is key to survival

Despite COVID-19 lockdown restrictions being a thing of the past, small and medium enterprise (SME) owners across the country are under pressure, thanks to a sluggish economy, which the pandemic only served to compound.

Legal hassles can sink your small business before you have begun to swim

South Africa is a challenging environment in which to succeed as a small business. Our government regulations can be prohibitive, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic followed on the heels of an economy not performing well and a slow recovery rate.

The 4 most common traits of successful entrepreneurs – with examples

From the outset it needs to be said that there simply is no formula for the ‘perfect entrepreneur’. Find out more about four of the traits that many of the world’s most prolific business people have in common.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Small Business, BIG Impact

In this webinar find out more about the power of small business and take a look at #AbsaSmallBizFriday and how your business can benefit from this national movement.

UPCOMING EVENT :: China Homelife and China Machinex South Africa returns to Johannesburg

After a 3- year pandemic enforced break, China Homelife and China Machinex will be returning to Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa from the 15th to 17th November 2022.

Fund offers relief for SMEs in agro-processing and manufacturing sector

The South African SME Debt Fund - a partnership between Sanlam Investments and the Eskom Pension and Provident Fund (EPPF) - was launched in the second quarter of 2022 to help SMEs in these sectors reach their full potential.

Santam :: National Sponsor of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Santam for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa.

7 tips to make cold calling less frosty

How often has your prospect put the phone down before you explained the purpose of your call? If it is more than 50 per cent, then you are in the right place as we help you to make your cold calls less frosty.

Early-stage entrepreneurial activity in South Africa surges by 62% over the past 2 years

We are seeing a surge in entrepreneurial activity despite the difficult economic conditions South Africa has endured over the past two years with many entrepreneurs reporting that they have identified new opportunities because of the pandemic.

Gear your business for greatness this Black Friday

Black Friday and the retail events that surround it are key consumer shopping events for you and your competitors, but how can SMEs like yours make the most of the period?

3 super practical ways to combat stress and prevent burnout as an entrepreneur

A number of studies and reports aired on popular media platforms such as Carte Blanche continue to highlight the importance of issues such as workplace stress, the negative impact of long working hours and the prevalence of burnout...

Loadshedding, petrol and interest rate hikes hit SME confidence levels

The Business Partners Ltd SME Confidence Index, which celebrates its 10th year anniversary in 2022, measures business confidence levels relative to labour laws, access to finance, state-level interventions and broader socioeconomic realities.

Fintech firm’s message to SMEs is vital: ‘Don’t despair, ProfitShare’

In the penultimate episode of the GIBS Entrepreneurship Development Academy Slaying in Your Lane series, sponsored by fintech company ProfitShare Partners, founder and CEO of the company, Andrew Maren, discusses access to cash for SMEs...

Nagging Panda Free Trial!

45 Days Free, No Credit Card Required. You’ll be directed to the Nagging Panda Pricing page but fear not, it’s just so you can choose your system mode and which package works for your business. You won’t be charged anything.

Purchase Order Capital

There isn’t time to deal with a complex application form when quick access to cash is what you need now. Get cash for your valid Purchase Orders and Contracts from R 250 000 up to R 5 000 000. Apply today!

How to make your business bloom

5 simple strategies for SMEs to attract more business in Spring. Historically, Spring is a busy time for small businesses and presents a season in the year filled with opportunities to capitalise on the energy and positivity of the warmer months.

Live commerce: a brief guide

With the growth of video content booming and people interacting more in online spaces, the move to live commerce seems inevitable. But what is live commerce and how can it boost your small business?

How 3D Secure 2 caters for a better online shopping experience

If you’ve ever used your credit or cheque card to shop online, you’ll be familiar with the process of having to confirm your payment through a one-time pin via email, cellphone or banking app on your smartphone. This process is called 3D Secure...

What uncapped data can do for your business

Approximately 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are created across the planet every day. A quintillion is over two times as much as a billion, a number so large that the human brain can’t fathom it properly.

Webinar Wednesday :: Unlocking small business growth through technology

19 October 2022 Online @ 9:30 In this LIVE interactive Q&A session Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Nastassha Dooks (@vodacom Executive Head of SME & SOHO) about the power of technology to unlock growth in your business.

UPCOMING EVENT :: How to manage your wealth as a business owner before year-end

Entrepreneurship Series | 13 October 2022 @ 9:00 Learn how to manage your wealth as a business owner with Fergus Ferguson.

UPCOMING EVENT :: Microsoft Security Summit

25 October 2022 | 8:00 - 16:00 The Forum | The Campus, Bryanston, Johannesburg

Africa’s biggest business event is back

If you are serious about wanting to build a bigger and more successful business, this unmatched event provides the platform to fast-track business success!

Business Boost: Key highlights from the 2022 National Small Business Survey

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) talk about the findings of the 2022 National Small Business Survey and how businesses can use these insights to make their businesses more successful.

It’s always about the money

I love it when people say to me: “but Harry, it’s not about the money.” Really?! Do you actually believe that? Now I’m the first to support that money isn’t everything. There are a lot of things that are important. I’m also not saying that money...

Build a social commerce strategy for your SME

Social media is already a common digital marketing strategy for most SMEs and has become increasingly important in recent years. When customers are looking for a solution, they will most probably do their research online.

A 4-point guide on what it takes to build a successful business on the African continent

Several economists have referred to Africa as the ‘next global growth market.’ A number of findings support this claim – according to the World Bank, six of the ten fastest-growing economies in the world are in African countries.

Top marketing strategies for Black Friday 2022 and 9 ways to stand out

Year-end is coming on like a freight train and with it, the inevitable planning for Black Friday 2022 specials and holiday sales. If you feel intimidated and a bit overwhelmed at the thought of planning your Black Friday marketing strategy...

Understand their market before proposing your solution

Rooting your B2B strategy in reliable data is essential when expanding into an export market. Market research helps you make informed sales and marketing decisions by identifying markets worth pursuing and examining potential...

Celebrating the spirit that drives South Africa forward

From National Fishing Month to International Walk to School Month, there seems to be a special month for almost everything these days. But what is their relevance?For the public and private sectors, special...

The fundraising market in Africa is growing, but it’s hard out there for start-ups

Analysis of the current African market by boutique investment bank DAI Magister, reveals that investors have so far bucked macrotrends by exhibiting confidence in investing into African businesses, particularly in first and second round raising.

UPCOMING EVENT :: The power of small business and the road to success

Wednesday, 05 October 2022 - Broadcast LIVE @ 09:30. In this live Q&A, Mike Anderson & Kgalaletso Tlhoaele explore the power of small business, take a look at #AbsaSmallBizFriday and how your business can benefit from this national movement.

Business Boost :: The biggest challenges facing SMEs

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) talk about the findings of the 2022 National Small Business Survey - focusing on the biggest challenges SMEs face and how to overcome these.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Driving financial inclusion: the importance of understanding your credit health

Presented by Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) & Jaco van Jaarsveldt (Experian – Head of Commercial Strategy and Innovation: Africa).

4 signs you’re ready to turn your side hustle into a formalised SME

The prospect of making the transition from a ‘side hustler’ to the owner of a fully-fledged business may have serious appeal, but it’s important for entrepreneurs to resist the temptation to buy into romanticised notions of what it means to own...

Grow your subscription-based business today

According to Telecoming’s SUBSCRONOMICS 2021 report, there are approximately 7.2 million active subscriptions in South Africa and there is a growth rate of 14% year on year. This means that the subscription-based economic model...

6 ways to reduce bias in your SME recruitment activities

September is Heritage Month, a great time to reflect on the rich diversity of candidates that our local job market has to offer. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have an important part to play in building a more inclusive workforce...

Off the grid: Is it time for small and medium enterprises to flick the switch to solar?

The economic challenges in South Africa are daunting for most businesses. When coupled with the impact of load-shedding, there are compelling reasons why many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are actively seeking out alternative...

POPIA: the new era of protection of information

What is the purpose of POPIA? The intended purpose of POPIA is to promote the right to privacy in the Constitution, while dealing with the right of access to information, as well as the protection of information and the flow of same.

Brand partnerships: 3 things to learn from South African YouTube creators

Influencer marketing has long been an industry buzzword but how can marketers ensure that brand partnerships deliver tangible results? Watch two YouTube creators — with a combined subscriber base of over 250K — talk about the beauty...

5 things SMEs need to keep in check in South Africa

As a small business owner in 2022, it’s your role to ensure that your business strategy has been re-adjusted post-pandemic, so that you are able to respond to ever-changing consumer demands, and have an innovative game plan...

The underestimated value of industry research to SMME’s sales and marketing

Industry research adds value to your B2B sales and marketing approach by using data-driven insights to align your team’s efforts. This research is important for creating efficient and effective sales and marketing strategies...

The role of SETAs in South Africa

In 1998, the South African Parliament developed the Skills Development Act. The act defined a new Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) system. The goal was to develop a series of sector skills plans within a clearly defined...

Why business development is good for business

Dwayne Jansen, one of our key account specialists, shares why he’s passionate about what he does and why he believes business development is important for the success of any business.

Tips for entrepreneurs exploring franchising and financing for the franchise sector

Jeremy Lang, General Manager at Business Partners Limited, encourages entrepreneurs to explore the opportunities available in this exciting sector. He notes, however, that due to the many types of businesses operating within the sector...

Voice communication and the power of modern PABX systems

Nothing is worse than struggling to hear incoming calls. As a business, clear communication with employees and clients is vital. For this reason, it’s essential to know the advantages and advanced features of a modern PABX system.

Join the SME e-Market today!

We know running a business can be tough and finding new innovative ways to increase revenue and profitability is not easy. That’s why Old Mutual has launched a digital marketplace that connects buyers and sellers...

Why get a medical aid for your SME?

Access to quality healthcare is top of mind for many South Africans, particularly after the COVID pandemic. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund South discusses the advantages of belonging to a medical aid for...

Netstar :: National Sponsor of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Netstar for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa.

Business Boost: Key insights to help businesses overcome challenges

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) talk about the leading factors that contribute to business failure and what businesses can do to overcome these challenges.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How business funding leads to the sustainability of SMEs

In this LIVE interactive Q&A session Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Nobesuthu Ndlovu (Director of SMEs - Old Mutual Limited) about this all-important topic.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How to advertise your business in 10 minutes

Presented by Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) & Sindy Snow (Vodacom - Portfolio Marketing Manager in Digital Lifestyle Service)

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Insights on managing an impactful business

Presented by Ncumisa Nodaka (Sage – Accountant, Tax Practitioner, Facilitator, Assessor, and Professional Business Advisor / Mentor)

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Crafting a business that gives you time and freedom

Presented by Pieter Scholtz (ActionCOACH – Co Master Licensee & Executive Coach)

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Learning to love change

Presented by Kristin Ransome (Google - Business Development Executive & Life Coach)

Sage :: National Sponsor of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Sage for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa.

Becoming a local business champion

By supporting SMEs, we can encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to invest in their business ideas and we can continue to build our economy. But how can we be champions for small businesses?

Registration, labour and tax: The most important compliance requirements for new small businesses

Putting measures and policies in place to ensure compliance may be a daunting task, and small business owners may be tempted to put compliance on the back burner in favour of more immediate concerns. However, being compliant from...

5 myths business owners have about staff

Following quite a few of these conversations recently about staff, I thought I’d help bust some of the myths business owners have around staff in general. These are just a few of the recent things I’ve heard:

Working together to build a culture of entrepreneurship is key to SA’s economic future

The ability to earn an income is one of the cornerstones on which every person’s physical and mental well-being depends. However, the options for earning such an income have decreased massively over the past decade...

Commercial vehicle conversions and all you need to know to make them work for your business

Because of how well vehicle conversions have developed over the course of history, building the perfect transport solution for your business could be easier than you think.

Managing and improving your fleet’s fuel economy

No matter the size or type of fleet, fuel expenses always make up a large portion of the budget. With the exorbitant fuel prices South Africa and the rest of the world are experiencing, there is no better time than the present...

UPCOMING WEBINAR :: Realise the value of industry research

Join our webinar where experts discuss how research can provide modern sales and marketing professionals a competitive edge.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: 1000 more No’s!

In this webinar, Elan proposes a different view, that “No” is good, in fact, maybe even great! You just need to know how to use it.

Business Boost :: How to accelerate your business success

Mike Anderson (NSBC) & Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) talk about success and how to define it. Mike also shares some powerful tips on what we need to do to succeed and build a powerful business by looking at what mega-entrepreneurs do differently.

Help small business South Africa today and you could WIN

Complete this snap survey and you could win a Digital ONE Marketing Campaign valued at R50,000.00

National Small Business Chamber achieves greatness in South Africa with the support of Sage

Sage provides SME organisation with a cloud accounting solution that ensures operational efficiency and financial compliance.

To lead is a choice. The 4 I’s of thriving leadership

Navigating ourselves and our businesses in an ever-changing environment with macro-economic forces at play has become a real challenge for many. Yet, for every business that reaches the end of its road that are many more businesses...

4 things entrepreneurs really need for success

If you google “The traits of successful entrepreneurs”, the usual and expected themes come up – things like passion, resilience, vision, confidence, inspiration, focus, strong leadership abilities, optimism and a willingness to fail.

Make your business bloom: 5 simple strategies for SMEs to attract more business in Spring

Historically, Spring is a busy time for small businesses, who have an unmatched opportunity to capitalise on the energy and positivity of the warmer months. This Spring will be particularly unique...

Beginner’s guide to SEM: SEO vs Search Engine Marketing

Search engine marketing is another one of those techy phrases that sounds more complicated than it really is. Well, okay, yes, there is room to make it complicated — depending on your budget...

Experian :: National Sponsors of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Experian for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa. #SmallBizAwardsSA #LaunchMyStartUp

How business funding leads to the sustainability of SMEs

In this LIVE interactive Q&A session Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Nobesuthu Ndlovu (Director of SMEs - Old Mutual Limited) about this all-important topic.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Educating Women within the MONEY Environment

Hosted recently at the Thriving Women Entrepreneurs Summit - Jodi is a wealth advisor at Citadel and she is passionate about educating women within the money environment, empowering women to take back their wealth creation and secure their future.

Microsoft :: National Sponsors of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Microsoft for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa. #SmallBizAwardsSA #LaunchMyStartUp

Take control of your invoicing, cashflow, payments, tax, and more.

Become a Sage customer and set your business up to fly... Sage, helping business flow. Sign up for a 3-month free trial of Sage Business Cloud Accounting.

WEBINAR :: ActionCOACH Entrepreneurship Series featuring Francois Lubbe

8 September 2022 @ 9:00 In honour of Heritage Day in September, we will be focusing on the importance of being a Proudly South African business owner and how that will aid you in building a profitable and sustainable business.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How To Overcome Adversity in Business

Hosted recently at the Thriving Women Entrepreneurs Summit - Lee-Anne Singer, Marketing Director of the Singer Group shares her personal story on how the past 3 years events has affected the business and how they prevailed in the face of adversity.

Start your own business with the right foundation in place to ensure sustainability

South Africa has been established as one of the continent’s ‘big four’ startup ecosystems, alongside Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria, according to the 2022 South African Startup Ecosystem Report.

Your business is not an ATM: 5 reasons to earn a salary as a business owner

How many business owners consider their business to be an endless fountain of money to fulfil any wish they have? If this is your idea, then it is time for the bubble to burst. or you to run a successful growing business, you need to...

Remaining resilient during these interesting times

In prepping for this blog, I asked business owners in my network what made them proud to be South African business owners. The overwhelming response was – our resilience.

My journey as a woman in tech

Woman’s Month is more than just a month of celebrating the women in our lives – our mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives. It’s about appreciating everything the previous generations have accomplished, offering us the freedom to...

Negligent conduct does not automatically attract liability

Where a claimant sues for damages for a personal injury claim, the proof of negligence does not automatically attract liability on the part of the third party for the claim. The claimant is required to prove that the third party’s negligent...

Telematics and how it can save you money

The word ‘telematics’ looks and sounds more complicated than it is. In most circles, it’s simply known as fleet tracking or GPS vehicle tracking. But no matter what you call it, there can be no denying its value and usefulness.

Old Mutual's innovative and cost effective insurance for SMEs

Old Mutual For SME has launched an innovative insurance solution that empowers SMEs to protect themselves against theft, loss, or damage to business assets, which could negatively affect business continuity.

Nedbank has empowered local business Mamma Theresa's Cuisine to do big things

Nedbank Money Message is an invoice and payment solution that enables small businesses to create and send invoices, and receive payments easily and securely on WhatsApp.

Business Boost - Why you should come to The Business Show :: Africa 2022

Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) discuss Business Show :: Africa featuring a stellar line-up of industry experts as well as the celebrations for the biggest small business day of the year #absasmallbizfriday.

The Business Show :: Africa 2022 - See the full speaker line-up

Join us for Africa's leading and most successful online expo for anyone who is serious about starting out or wanting to grow a bigger and more successful business.

BITM – connecting the science of technology and cyber-security

In this interview, we find out more about Christo Coetzer (Founder and Director of BITM), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

02 September is the biggest small business day of the year!

We invite you to join #AbsaSmallBizFriday Africa’s most powerful small business and job creation movement as we mobilise the nation to go out and support small businesses. Get involved today!

Buckle up!

With the very odd exception, people are taking huge strain. hey’re deeply concerned, worried about the future and really struggling to get to grips with the now.

4 simple cash-flow management strategies for small businesses

Cash flow ranks high amongst the top concerns for small businesses in South Africa. And because business comes down to rands and cents, balancing the inflow of revenue with the outflow of expenses, and ensuring that your business remains...

5 reasons South Africa needs more womenpreneurs

It’s no secret that women have had to fight harder than men to become a legitimate presence in virtually every aspect of business. Thankfully, the gender gap is slowly shrinking on the corporate side, with more female executives in the workplace...

South Africa: economic insights

Metals prices have dropped considerably: Financial market participants’ readjustment to the real economy, following a period of ‘panic’ and a high level of uncertainty, notably after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February.

How to determine the business internet speeds you need

The market size for Internet Service Providers (ISP) in America was over $133 billion in 2022. These ISP companies provide web access to both businesses and customers. They may also offer domain registration, web hosting, and much more.

Toyota South Africa :: National Sponsors of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Toyota South Africa for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa. #SmallBizAwardsSA #LaunchMyStartUp

UPCOMING WEBINAR :: The future landscape of Employee Benefits

Wednesday, 31 August 2022 | 10:00 to 12:00 | Please join us for our second Leading Edge Insights Series Webinar, brought to you by Liberty Corporate and hosted by Business Journalist Alishia Seckam.

Profitshare Partners :: National Sponsors of Launch My Startup & the 2022 South African Small Business Awards

Congratulations to ProfitShare Partners for becoming a proud National Sponsor of two of the most powerful and meaningful initiatives in South Africa. #SmallBizAwardsSA #LaunchMyStartUp

6 steps to coaching your small business team

Have you ever thought of business as a team sport? Where you are the coach and your employees the athletes in your team? Let’s look at six steps to coaching your small business team to be the elite in your industry.

Now more than ever, cash-flow planning is king

The reason why cash-flow planning is so vital for owner-managers is because cash is such a limited resource inside a growing business. “This year”, says Jeremy Lang, Chief Investment Officer at Business Partners Limited...

Doing it all – what it took to get here! A letter to all young entrepreneurs

There’s no two ways about this. The path of an entrepreneur or business owner is not for everyone. But, if you think you have what it takes, I urge you not to let the chance pass you by.

The journey to financial freedom is a series of small steps

“It has felt like walking in the dark. I have stumbled multiple times, but I have learnt to fail forward. The best decisions I’ve made have stemmed from lessons I learnt from past mistakes.” Thandolwethu Ndlovu isn’t scared of failure.

How employee growth and development plans can help SMEs attract and retain top talent

For South Africa’s brightest youth, deciding which university to attend or where to live after completing their studies can be challenging. In the same way, choosing whether to work for a large corporate or an SME can be a difficult...

LIVE WEBINAR :: From B2B Gatekeeper to Decision-Maker

25 August 2022 10 a.m. SAST Don’t miss this chance to learn how identifying and accessing the right person can empower your sales conversations and marketing strategies

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How to create Magick in your business

Discover the mindset, mental strengths and strategies needed to grow your business in the next 12 months with Cobus Visser (\S/uperman of Africa, International Motivational Keynote Speaker).

Business Boost :: Are you ready for The Business Show :: Africa?

Starting out or wanting to grow a bigger and more successful business? Discover more about Africa's leading and most successful online expo for business owners, entrepreneurs, and aspiring small business owners here.

Put your business in the spotlight. Enter today!

Are you a small business owner or a mercurial entrepreneur in South Africa and are proud of your achievements? Why not enter the South African Small Business Awards and you could receive massive recognition for you and your business.

UPCOMING EVENT :: Register now for ecommerce LIVE

The NSBC invites you to SA's largest ecommerce event on 14 September at Sandton Convention Centre. 150 industry leaders will share insights on how to start or grow your ecommerce business. Entry is free using "NSBC" as the invite code.

The Business Show :: Africa 2022 – This is what you need for business success!

Twice a year, The Business Show: Africa elevates into a 3-day frenzy of business success webinars, incredible interactive exhibits, in-depth success insights and off-the-chart world-class networking – all in an amazing virtual environment.

Boost profits through workplace well-being

What do you look for in your employees? Would you like someone who is healthy, productive and engaged? Have you lost a lot of employees due to stress, burn out or dissatisfaction with their work environment? Then it is.....

How to write a great search ad to grow your small business

These days, most online brand experiences start with a web search. But how do you stand out to ensure that when people search for products or services like yours, they end up going to your website, and not someone else’s?

5 things to know about your small business and tax

With a bit of planning, you can avoid nasty tax surprises that may be lurking around the corner. Here are five tips to help your small business when it comes to tax planning:

Women in business: preparing the next generation – a father’s perspective

The month of August sees us celebrating Women’s Month and it is in this context that I want to provide some focus on the important role that women play in the business world and society.

A guide to choosing the right software for your small business

When it comes to digital transformation, the common narrative is that legacy technology and existing infrastructure investments prevent most businesses from taking the leap.

SA’s top 5 consumer trends and what they mean for your business

The customer of today has a number of concerns. Trust, values, and integrity issues are of the utmost significance in a world that is always evolving. But how does this affect the way they interact with your company?

Business Boost :: Mistakes, myths and some of the best advice for starting a business

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) discuss whether now is the time to start a business and how to ensure it succeeds.

UPCOMING EVENT :: The Business Show :: Africa 2022

This is what you need for business success! 31 Aug 2022 – 02 Sept 2022 Join thousands of business owners and entrepreneurs from all over South Africa for the entrepreneurial experience of the year. Register now, it’s FREE.

Will you be Access Bank’s 2022 Womenpreneur Pitch-A-Ton South Africa winner?

The South African programme is a women-in-business support initiative that offers the opportunity to progressive, motivated women of our country to pitch their business and stand a chance to win a financial boost.

Made by Mosaic – creating hope, one job at a time

In this interview, we find out more about Terry Niemack (Manager of Made By Mosaic), her business journey, and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

How to generate online word of mouth for your SMB

Your customers can share their opinions of your brand on their platforms which not only reach their friends but can be shared by their friends to their circle of friends. So, how do you generate beneficial word of mouth?

Time to take over

It’s time to take over. For every female entrepreneur who has had the courage to start their own business, it is time to build that confidence and ensure that your business soars to heights that can only be limited by your dreams.

Need a business plan? Start here

For your business to be a success, your passion, enthusiasm, hard work and skills should be built on a practical framework. And that’s the case whether it’s a new business or an existing one. An important part of that framework is your business plan.

Can South Africa match China’s e-commerce growth?

During the PayFast e-commerce Virtual Summit organised by the Insaka e-commerce academy, our Head of Product, David Küsel explored the main factors of why China is a leader in e-commerce and what South Africa needs...

Mental health in your business

Good mental health in SMMEs is just as important as in a large corporation. We all know healthy employees are happier ones and studies have shown that mental illness is one of the main causes of unhappiness in the workplace.

Office automation tools that will make a difference to any office

The field of automation is growing to surpass $355 billion by 2028. Using automated tools saves time and money, helps with data storage, and allows you to implement effective office workflows.

COMPETITION :: Enter the 2022 Business Plan Competition

Calling all aspiring entrepreneurs. Stand a chance of winning a cash prize and mentorship vouchers.

UPCOMING EVENT :: Thriving Women Entrepreneur Summit

Get inspired by a line-up of seven empowering and inspirational women entrepreneurs. Date: 12 August 2022 Time: 09h00 – 12h30 Venue: Zoom hosted Cost: Free REGISTER TODAY!

Business Boost :: The countdown to South Africa's biggest awards programme begins

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), talk about the build up to the South African Small Business Awards - a celebration of the most outstanding businesses and the exceptional business people.

The Impressive Human Show - Featuring Ulrich van den Berg

In this episode, we spoke to Ulrich van den Berg (professional golfer, turned pro in 1999, 7-time winner of the Sunshine Tour). He has competed in the European Tour, still competes in the Sunshine Tours and is involved in the business side of golf.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Leverage eCommerce for Growth | South Africa: Economic Review & Outlook

Olebogeng Mogale (Nedbank) shares about the power of eCommerce in expanding your business and Nicola Weimar (Nedbank) gives the economic review and outlook for South Africa.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How to use news to open sales conversations

Sales and marketing experts explain how strategically filtering and automating buyer signal news alerts can help boost your business’s sales.

Summer businesses are built in winter

We’ve all heard it before: Summer bodies are built in winter. So what? What does that mean? Well simply put; if I want the fit, toned and sculpted beach body for the December holidays, I need to be putting in the extra effort, yes extra effort...

5 growth strategies for small business

Have you ever wondered how to grow your business? Do you long to be listed as a Fortune 500 company? Then implementing one of these growth strategies will help you to work your way towards your entrepreneurial goals.

Your business needs cyber security insurance, here’s why

In a world of data breaches and hacks, cyber security is important for everyone with an online presence, more so for businesses with the responsibility to protect customers. The question is: who protects the businesses?

Starting an online business? Choose your own e-commerce adventure

At times, starting an online business can feel like you’re climbing a mountain. It may be difficult, but you know it will be worthwhile when you reach the top and take in the view. Find out if you have what it takes to start your own business...

Green building: a golden opportunity for South African SMEs

Unstable power supply and the opportunity to save on utilities are just two of the reasons businesses are planning to go green, however, the core issue of a high-cost outlay on these ventures remains.

AI: the basics to boost your business

If you use Facebook or YouTube and have seen adverts from web pages you have recently looked at then you have had an experience with artificial intelligence (AI). Slowly, AI is being adopted into our lives and if we want to survive as a business...

6 challenges women face in business

The number of women entrepreneurs is on the rise. Many of these women are struggling to survive in the business environment given the unique challenges they face. In my experience as a business coach, many women-owned businesses...

Big3 Evolution - sharing their knowledge and experience with the wider community

In this interview we find out more about Kotie Nigrini & Yvette Cronjé (Co-founders of Big3 Evolution), their business journey and why they believe South Africa should support small business.

The Impressive Human Show featuring Mark Robinson

In this episode, we spoke to Mark Robinson (wrestler, weightlifter, cage fighter, Sumo wrestler and Strong Man). He has competed and won world titles in many disciplines, is now an excellent instructor and runs his own gym.

Business Boost :: Give your startup a fighting chance

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), look how if you're struggling to get ahead, a change to your mindset can make all the difference.

How to give your startup a fighting chance

Imagine putting everything you have – your hopes, dreams and finances into starting your own business, only to watch it crash and burn. The fear of failure is at the very top above anything else.

4 pitfalls in business communication

As we get more and more channels to communicate on; there are more and more ways of being misunderstood. How can you avoid the pitfalls in business communication?

Is SA’s proposed Rapid Payments Programme good news?

South Africa’s Rapid Payments Programme (RPP) is an industry-wide collaboration intended to create a simpler, safer, and less-expensive instant payment environment for all South Africans.

Why you should add Nagging Panda to your tech stack

You might be thinking you don’t want a tech stack or that you don’t even know what a tech stack is, but if you’re using cloud accounting, a virtual meeting platform like Zoom or Teams, and possibly online storage like Dropbox or Google Drive...

The ultimate guide to invoicing

Cash is the lifeblood of any business; you simply cannot survive without it. Being paid what you are owed is important, but being paid on time is critical to avoid ending up in a dangerous cash flow position.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Ecommerce Unpacked! with Aramex

In this webinar Noel Ross-Gillespie (Aramex) helps small businesses understand the delivery side of eCommerce and unpacks both terminology and concepts that will help you take your eCommerce business to new heights.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: The Modern Workplace for Small Business

Find out how to work securely from anywhere at anytime, get closer to your customers, optimise working in this new hybrid environment.

9TX Media – supporting the dreams of other businesses

In this interview we find out more about Kutlwano Rose Whitney Malete (Founder of 9TX Media and Head of Digital & Design), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

Business Boost :: Why you aren't getting ahead

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), look at how, if you’re struggling to get ahead, a change to your mindset can make all the difference.

This is why you’re not getting ahead

If you are not getting ahead, you need to change your mindset. The right mindset is success. In your mind are the beliefs and tools you use to get what you want.

4 common business crises – how to prepare for them

When we start our businesses, very few people want to focus on the worst-case scenarios. They only dream about the good things they can do and achieve with their new business. But by not preparing for some of the most common business crises...

5 ways to set up a successful succession plan

There are thousands of business leaders in the working world today, each wanting desperately to create and build a lasting “legacy,” but very few are remembered after their last day on the job.

Understanding the importance of data storage

In the age of digital information, businesses use data storage solutions to thrive. It lessens website traffic, ensuring both employees and customers experience enhanced transactions.

4 tips for managing a multigenerational team

With this diversity in ages, how do you manage the needs of each generation and create a prosperous work environment for everyone? But before we dive into the tips, let’s look at the different generations that are currently in the workforce.

Business rescue and the practitioners tasked with managing it

Business rescue or corporate rescue refers to the restructuring or reorganization of a corporate entity. It is aimed at moving away from the culture of liquidation, and rather focusing on getting “financially distressed” entities back on their feet.

Disability sales rebate: what is it and how can Volkswagen South Africa help?

Getting a disability rebate is a useful way to ease the costs of adding adaptations to a vehicle. Volkswagen South Africa engages with opportunities to make independence, interdependence, and mobility more accessible...

Absolute Credit Control Services – contributing positively to the success of businesses

In this interview we find out more about Ansie Fourie (Owner & Director of Absolute Credit Control Services), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

3 types of legacies entrepreneurs can build

Leaving a legacy means living a legacy. The day-to-day actions of you and your business will be the bricks on which the legacy is built. It starts with a long-term mindset

5 helpful marketing tools for startups

Here are five helpful marketing tools that will make it easier to get the word out about your brand – regularly, affordably, and creatively.

How to recuperate after a business crisis

Encountering a business crisis is inevitable if you run a business, but how you recuperate from it can either mean a business that continues to grow or one that is heading for bankruptcy.

5 strategies that can help SMEs shift their mindset towards tech adoption

We discovered small businesses have a set of deeply ingrained beliefs about technology that influence their decision-making. We’ve identified five strategies that can help businesses shift their mindset towards technology adoption.

How the right technology can help empower SMEs in a hybrid environment

The right technology provides not just productivity, but personal connectivity. Video conferencing tools and collaboration platforms have played a critical role in maintaining visibility among colleagues and keeping employees efficient

CIPC enhances systems to further reduce red tape

The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is making efforts to reduce the regulatory burden by easing and simplifying the way our customers transact, thus, enabling our customers to focus on growing their businesses.

4 simple ways to optimise your recruitment efforts

With a dynamic, attractive and stimulating representation of your SME and the vacant position, you will be able to stand out from your competitors – even the big corporates – and attract the very best candidates.

Fleet tracking made easy: a boost for small business safety and efficiency

Netstar, a subsidiary of Altron, has applied its experience with large fleets to launch Netstar Fleet Tracker, which makes it simple for small business owners to track their drivers affordably, and to save on fuel.

WEBINAR :: Live your legacy through your business

14 July 2022 @ 09h00 – 10h30 Join Lindie Malan for the next instalment of the ActionCOACH Entrepreneurship Series.

G3G – helping businesses grow beyond today

In this interview we find out more about Ian Theron (Head SME Unit Africa of G3G), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR :: Where to invest next - refocussing on growth in 2022

Wednesday, 06 July 2022 The first in the Leading Edge Insights Series, brought to you by Liberty Corporate and hosted by Alishia Sekham, created to help you retain top talent, improve productivity & create long-term impact in your business today.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Build a Target List - The Power of List Building in Sales Prospecting

Maximize your prospecting efforts and find viable, valuable business leads. Transunion and D&B Hoovers explore the power of focused B2B research for more effective sales and marketing.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How to Become Financially Fit - What credit providers are looking for

In this power-packed Q&A you will discover what lenders look for on your credit report and how you can get the funds you need when you need it for your business.

Teams Phone helps African businesses stay more connected

Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a Pan-African technology group, has the simple yet powerful belief that everyone in Africa should have the opportunity to be connected.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Reigniting the spirit of entrepreneurship in the youth of South Africa

n this live Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC), Nompumelelo Mkhwanazi (The Success of Business Solution) & Anastasia Goodman (Absa) discuss ways to inspire and mobilise the youth to start and grow their own businesses.

Yess Business Basics - Free of charge to students aged 12-22

To celebrate Youth Month, Join the YESS (Young Entrepreneur Smart Start) Programme - a free online course aimed at introducing the youth to business skills and education.

Why can’t entrepreneurs celebrate?!

It is however the nature of the entrepreneur to always be thinking what’s next and therefore almost rushing over success in the pursuit of the next chase. So here are a few things that can help you.

Hustle hard, but find your balance

It starts with the little things – in and outside of work. Things like exercising and eating healthier, learning and practicing turning your ‘work-brain’ off and spending more ‘you’ time away from work.

The 4 pillars of a thriving business

Is your business thriving or do you need to resuscitate it? Let us take a look at four pillars with Elan Lea from Techzoo corporation that can help you build a thriving business.

4 ways to increase your profit by 46%

During a power-packed Q&A session, Mike Anderson interviewed Shirley Pearson about what it takes to boost profits and how business owners can zero in on what they need to do now to make this happen.

To turn your camera on or not to turn your camera on?

Don’t assume you will not be asked to turn your camera on during a virtual meeting. You should always be prepared to appear professional even if you’re not conducting an in-person meeting.

Daisy Business Solutions, South Africa’s office automation group is now officially part of the NSBC network

Daisy Business Solutions is proud to announce an integration partnership with the NSBC, Africa’s leading SME organisation.

Hacking is on the rise and the biggest security risk is: you

Sophisticated cybercrimes are rapidly increasing and will become the biggest threat yet. The question is, are you informed? And more importantly, is your family and business protected?

Google launches new initiatives to support small retail businesses in Africa

As part of a month-long commemoration of International Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Businesses Day in June, Google has announced new initiatives to support small retail businesses in Africa.

Langa Lahko – understanding the importance of nature

In this interview we find out more about Wendy Radebe de Kock (Owner/Founder of Langa Lahko), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR :: Live your legacy through your business

Join ActionCOACH, for the next instalment of the Entrepreneurship Webinar Series featuring Lindie Malan on 14 July 2022 from 09h00 - 10h30.

EVENT :: Township SMME Development Hackathon

The Microsoft SA, SAtion and Empire Partner Foundation Hackathon - aimed at improving business information accessibility for township SMMEs - takes place from 24 - 26 June in Illovo at the Empire Partner Foundation Tech Hub.

Business Boost :: Stop thinking like a salesperson and think like a doctor

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Henceford Khoza (Mix 93.8 FM), look at how thinking like a doctor can increase your sales. They also look at powerful tips on how to become a top deal maker.

How to win by thinking like a doctor

Poor and average salespeople, on the other hand, jump into pitching their solution before the prospect talks about their pain points. Let’s take a look at eight powerful tips adopted by the world’s top rainmakers:

Overtime, commission, and bonuses: what you need to know

Setting up a payroll structure is a critical component of the payroll function to ensure that your employees are paid the correct salary in addition to overtime, commissions, and bonuses.

Bidding for success: New ways to find your most valuable customers

When everyone is doing the same thing, it’s difficult to stand out. But the latest generation of Google campaign tools can help you find and reach your most valuable customers.

Nagging Panda: New start-up gets your invoices settled

If anyone understands the constrictions and damage late payments have on small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and corporates alike; it’s serial entrepreneur and TechZoo Corporation chief executive, Elan Lea.

Ten hustle marketing strategies for small business owners going it alone

Being a small business owner is tough! We know it. That’s why we’ve made your life a little easier by giving you ten marketing strategies that can help you as a small business owner, and some tactics to go along with them.

Understanding the world of office automation

Office Automation (OA) is a general term that refers to the various computer systems and software used to produce, store, alter and communicate office information. OA enables these processes to occur digitally and without human intervention.

7 key customer buying signals for SMEs

Being able to clearly identify a buying signal and acting upon it is the way to make more sales but it takes time and effort to notice them online and in one-on-one conversations. Here are seven key customer buying signals to look out for.

How vehicle telematics is changing the future of business

Smart money is on using technology to redefine the future of mobility, writes JW Oberholzer, Senior Manager for Commercial Sales at Netstar, a subsidiary of Altron.

Nash & Co Inc – combining trusted experience with modern flexibility

In this interview we find out more about Dianne Louisa Nash (Director of Nash & Co Inc), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR: Reigniting the spirit of entrepreneurship in the youth of South Africa

In this live Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC), Nompumelelo Mkhwanazi (The Success of Business Solution) & Anastasia Goodman (Absa) discuss ways to inspire and mobilise the youth to start & grow their own businesses.

Join Old Mututal's SMEgo Beta Testing Group and you could win 1 of 20 Takealot vouchers worth R500

Old Mutual has created SMEgo - a digital solution offering a single platform to help you run and grow your business wherever you are, available 24/7. Help them test an early version of the App and Web solution and you could WIN.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: The 4 pillars of a thriving business

Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) interviews Elan Lea from TechZoo Corporation in this inspirational webinar.

Business Boost :: Ways to get the best out of your employees

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about how the most important asset for any business are the people in it.

4 alternative ways to secure small business funding

If you can’t get a loan, don’t have any savings, aren’t related to anyone wealthy (and generous) and don’t have a business network, how do you get the start-up funding you need to get your business off the ground?

5 ways to avoid bad hires

It is crucial, especially for small businesses, to make sure the hire is a great fit for your business from the start but how do you avoid bad hires? Let’s look at five ways.

COVID-19 facts as we enter the fifth wave

As the fifth wave of COVID-19 spreads, South Africa is seeing an increase in positive cases. Just as the Delta and Omicron variants became part of our daily vocabulary, the new Pi strain will too.

The role of modern telematics and data-driven technologies in businesses

Mike Anderson and Francois Stols got together to discuss the role of modern telematics and data-driven technologies to make businesses more efficient, safer and greener.

4 benefits of buying local

What are the benefits of supporting local businesses rather than global brands? Let’s look at four benefits of buying locally.

The power of list building in sales prospecting

How and why to build a targeted list of companies using sophisticated, strategic search and segmentation filters.

Startwise – knowledge sharing and business networking through cutting edge technology

In this interview we find out more about Velly Bosega (Internet entrepreneur and founder of Startwise), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

EVENT :: Google Shopping Small Business Summit

You are invited to the Google Shopping Small Business Summit taking place on 21 June 2022. This event will touch on e-commerce trends in Africa and explore how Google is supporting small businesses in their online growth.

How young people can start a business and become an entrepreneur

Entrepreneurship is hard, but it’s also noble. Not only do you crack a chance at making some good money, but you can also bring others with you along your journey. Make no mistake: the road is difficult, and filled with potholes.

Entries are open for the 2022 Santam Women of the Future Awards

Santam, together with FAIRLADY and TRUELOVE, are searching for South Africa’s most enterprising women. Entries close on 20 June 2022.

WEBINAR :: Learn how to effectively target lists and reach decision-makers

23 June 2022 @ 10:00 Maximize your prospecting efforts and find viable, valuable business leads. Transunion and D&B Hoovers explore the power of focused B2B research for more effective sales and marketing.

Digital Flyer – expanding digital footprints and reaching communities

In this interview we find out more about Dewald Rosema (Owner/Founder of Digital Flyer), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

Business Boost :: Ways to get the best out of your employees

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about how the most important asset for any business, are the people in it.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Sales Indaba - 5 ways to increase your profit by 46%

In this power-packed session, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) interviews Shirley Pearson (ActionCOACH Business & Executive Coach) about what it takes to boost profit.

Nedbank wins award for being the best bank for small and medium enterprises in South Africa

Nedbank has been recognised as the Best SME Bank in South Africa at the Asian Banker Excellence in Retail Financial Services International Awards 2022.

7 ways to make your small business easy to buy from

Whether online or in brick-and-mortar stores, seeing an abandoned shopping basket is devastating. But how can you make it easier for customers to buy from you? Let’s look at seven ways to make buying from your small business easy.

38 Free and paid marketing tools for small businesses

Grow your small (or large) business with the help of these tools. As a startup, small-, or even medium-sized business, you want to grow and scale your business effectively, whilst being aware of costs.

5 traits needed for successful entrepreneurs

As a country, we urgently need to address these mistaken attitudes and work to instil more confidence in our youth if we are to achieve a thriving, job-creating economy. In keeping with this, here are the five traits needed...

TechZoo Corporation launches Nagging Panda to help businesses deal with late payers

TechZoo Corporation and serial entrepreneur Elan Lea launches Nagging Panda as a solution business owners and financial managers didn’t know they needed but won’t be able to live without.

How to build employer-employee relationships in the digital world

Though in-person contact is the best way to build relationships, there are many ways that you can continue to build relationships in the digital world.

Have a side hustle? This tax hack could help you recover losses

More and more South Africans from all tax brackets are supplementing their primary income streams with so-called ‘side hustles’ or, as I prefer to call them, ‘part-time businesses’.

Youth is where the heart is

Youth. How is the word and concept of youth defined? I loved the United Nations definition: Youth is best understood as a period of transition from the dependence of childhood to adulthood’s independence.

UPCOMING EVENT :: ActionCOACH Entrepreneurship Series

Thursday, 09 June 2022 @ 9:00 Join ActionCOACH Trevor Clark as he highlights the importance of our Youth getting business experience.

SPECIAL OFFER :: Microsoft 365 Solutions

The hybrid working model has been crucial for the survival of SMEs but with it has come some new cyber security sets. Mitigate these threats today by strengthening your organization’s security framework with Microsoft 365 solutions.

VIDEO: How compliant and secure is your SME’s data?

Join Jonathan Tullet (Research Manager IDC Sub-Saharan Africa) and Jaco Stoltz (CEO Startegix) as they discuss one of the top concerns for SMEs in South Africa. They talk broadly about data compliance and security.

How to boost sales with intent monitoring

Are you tired of cold calling clients hoping they are in the market to buy? Then you are in the right space. Intent monitoring is another tool to add to your marketing toolbox so that you can potentially make more successful conversions.

Small Business Detox: 6 behaviours to stop today

Do your staff often call in sick or stay off work regularly? Do you have a high turnover of staff members? Then it is time to examine the behaviours in your business because it may be a toxic environment.

Cybercrime is on the rise – is your business adequately protected?

The need for a digital evolution has become vital for all businesses. Many businesses in South Africa are not adequately protected against cybercrime, mainly due to a lack of information or the belief that “it won’t happen to me”.

Small businesses set to fuel South African economy with ambitious growth plans

Despite the challenges of operating through a pandemic, 87% of South African small businesses are optimistic about their outlook for 2022 and nearly two-thirds (62%) reported growth over the last year.

Digital economy for African SMEs

The growth of the digital economy has made it possible for people to participate in local and global economies but how can the digital economy help strengthen African SMEs?

What Google is doing to help brands build resilience and drive results

Join us at Google Marketing Live (GML) on demand for a keynote presentation, where we’ll announce new product innovations and share plans to help you prepare for the future of marketing

How to read and understand your medical aid to avoid paying for benefits you will never use

Medical schemes help us finance life’s curveballs when we can’t do it alone. It’s advisable to evaluate your medical aid coverage each year to make sure you have adequate cover for your needs or for any changes in your health.

Smart Fogging Solutions - a mom's vision for change

In this interview we find out more about Sandra Kathleen Venter (Owner/Founder of Smart Fogging Solutions), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

B Doyle and Associates Group - bringing four decades of proven industry expertise and reliable service

In this interview we find out more about Lynn Templeton (Managing Member of B Doyle and Associates Group), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: Streamline your business with the right technology - Exploring Microsoft Dynamics 365

Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to entrepreneur and technology expert, Donovan Manuel (CEO - Link-Up ICT), about his business and what attracted him to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central as well as the importance of cyber security.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: The 4 "I's" of Leadership with Lindie Malan (ActionCOACH)

In this webinar Lindie explores the 4 "I"s of leadership, being: Intentional, Inspirational, Influential and Impactful.

Business Boost :: How a "failure-is-not-an-option" mindset can help you overcome adversity

In this interview, the "failure is not an option" mindset is discussed, the importance of having the right mental state (when times get tough in life and business) is highlighted and practical tips are provided as to how to achieve this.

Learn to dream

The issue is that you learn what you want, and – more importantly – what you don’t want, as you navigate the journey of life. The starting point for me is actually learning to dream.

How to convert with conversation commerce

Let’s take a closer look at conversation commerce. In this type of commerce, we are looking at the digital process of buying an item. We look at how we can use messaging to make the online shopping experience more personal, enjoyable, and easier.

Tips to help get your small business funded in South Africa

Every SME looking for funding can learn a lesson from this: make sure what you present to the outside world, even in your personal capacity, is legit, and that you look, or more importantly, are credible to the highest degree.

Hire young workers and give your business a boost with the Employment Tax Incentive

The ETI is a widely beneficial tax benefit: employers are rewarded for hiring young people, and young people gain valuable work skills and experience. As a result, the private sector grows, and the economy strengthens.

Fixed-term contract employee or full-time employee: which is it?

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought uncertainty in most instances, like when to appoint someone as a part-time employee or full-time employee. As the economy is hankering toward the “normal”, employers may be sceptical about appointing...

Reap the benefits of cashless transactions

South Africa is already a cash-heavy economy as it is and this reliance on cash is financially and socially costly for the economy. This cost alone is estimated at approximately R88 billion per year.

Get your business into the cloud

Let’s take a look at what is the cloud?, how will your small business benefit from the cloud? And how can you migrate to the cloud?

Top companies share how Dynamics 365 and Teams empower employees to collaborate like never before

Leaders in their industries—insurance and legendary music brands—shared how Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Teams are helping them bring people, information, and processes together...

Business Boost :: Are you playing it safe? Why taking risks is so important to success.

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about how taking risks is an essential part of achieving success in business and life.

ONLINE COURSE: Cybersecurity for Small and Medium Businesses: Essential Training

Discover this new course presented on LinkedIn Learning by Kristin Judge and brought to you by Microsoft.

13 ways to keep your business youthful

You’ve spent years building a business, now it’s time to monetise. But you’re not sure how to get your business to the next stage, maybe give it a fresh look or bring some youthfulness into the mix?

How to be a resilient business in SA during times of uncertainty

Businesses of all sizes have had to learn how to adapt and become resilient – in a very short amount of time. With the challenges posed by the pandemic, the ongoing load shedding struggles thanks to Eskom and...

Advice on navigating the new world of work from ProTalent’s Cindy Norcott

We also hear of careers becoming redundant within a few years as artificial intelligence takes over and singularity becomes the norm. Does this mark the end for the employee in South Africa?

How to keep track of small business financial transactions

You can easily manage all of your company’s financial transactions with a bit of planning and organisation. The following are the three major types of transactions that you must be aware of and keep records for:

Business ecosystems 101: creating fertile soil for business growth

Developing fertile environments within business industries is crucial for the growth of the economy as well as building up communities to become thriving places for commerce. But what does it take to build a business ecosystem?

Just like that? The voetstoots clause

In the normal course of operations, it will often be necessary for small businesses to purchase second-hand goods from local suppliers. In most cases, a voetstoots clause will affect the transaction.

How small businesses can navigate risk in a post-pandemic world

There is a cascade of complex new risks that entrepreneurs must contend with if they wish to successfully steer their business into the future. Here are some tips to help entrepreneurs navigate this new world.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How #AbsaSmallBizFriday can help your business get ahead

In this Q&A, you will discover more about this incredible nation-building initiative, get tips and insights from a successful small business owner, and learn how to maximise this opportunity to grow your business.

Business Boost :: How to achieve greater happiness and life success

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about the role happiness plays in achieving success. They also look at "Happiness Factor" and share key tips and insights on how to live a happier life.

Business in a digital economy: Love Jacaranda

Mike Anderson (NSBC founder & CEO) and Christina Close (Love Jacaranda co-founder) discuss how to build a business during the boom of the digital economy and how to continue to make it successful.

6 steps to building your business with video marketing

According to Wyzowl’s the state of video marketing 2021 report, 94% of marketers say video has helped them increase their understanding of a product or service. 86% of say video has helped them generate leads...

Are end-to-end business solutions too complex and expensive for SMEs?

Many small and medium businesses (SMEs) still use a combination of standalone, on-premises business solutions for accounting, payroll and human resources (HR). Although these systems have served them well for many years...

The importance of a name

If indeed a brand is the single most important investment of a business, it isn’t surprising that the name (brand) of a medical scheme bears significant importance. Not only to the medical scheme and its members, but also to the public at large.

Ten tips for flu and COVID-19 vaccines

The seasons are changing and winter is on its way, which heralds the start of the ‘flu season’. We chat to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund on why a flu vaccine is recommended...

A guide to accessing funds that can help your small business

It takes money to run a business and there is a need for assisting and guiding SME owners to secure more funding, particularly given the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years.

How does Cindy Norcott do it?

How Does She Do It? is Cindy Norcott’s second instalment in her writing career, after her first book, How To Be Unstoppable reached best-selling acclaim.

Pinnacle Consulting - born from a passion to uplift and change the lives of others

In this interview we find out more about Wayden Barnes and Yeshika Peruman (Owners / Directors of Pinnacle Consulting), their business journey and why they believe South Africa should support small business.

Team meetings will buy your freedom

One of the most valuable systems you can implement in an organisation is a steady rhythm. This creates the pulse that your team works to, which in turn creates the steady pulse your organisation needs to thrive. How do you create this?

5 factors to consider before starting a business

There are many factors to consider before starting your business such as what product or service to launch and whether there is a market for it. You will also have to decide how you will fund your new venture...

How to generate online word of mouth for your SME

Word-of-mouth advertising is an age-old marketing strategy. But with the advent of the internet and social media networks, this conversation has become more public then in the past.

Learn about invoice finance with Capitalise

Invoice finance is a funding solution that can help you release cash from your outstanding invoices to ensure you have enough money in the business to pay your suppliers and continue growing.

How to survive as a local business during the times of load shedding

Load shedding is currently a frustrating factor of everyday life in South Africa. Here are seven strategies to help your business survive and thrive through days filled with power outages and uncertainty.

Can you commission documents virtually?

Not all day-to-day transactions are the same. In certain instances, physical engagement is a strict requirement. Commissioning of documents is a prime example, as it requires that all deponents are to appear in person...

The importance of partnerships

A strategic partnership is one of the ways that small business owners can expand their business and increase revenue without incurring drastic costs or necessarily increasing staff.

Adbot – empowers small- and medium-size businesses to effectively advertise

In this #AbsaSmallBizFriday interview, we find out more about Michelle Geere (CEO of Adbot), her business journey, and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

Common FAQ's regarding Start-up's

In this guide, find out answers to common frequently asked questions regarding start-ups.

FREE GUIDE :: Work fewer hours, increase productivity and profits

Knowing how to spend time is a skill more valuable than knowing how to make, manage, invest, and spend money. Get this free guide from ActionCOACH.

Business Boost :: Why small business owners should stop discounting their prices

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about how small businesses are often requested to discount their prices, the effect this has on the business, and why you should stand firm on your pricing.

Is there a work-life balance?

I am hectic. I am stressed. I am tired. I am exhausted. These are phrases we often repeat to ourselves as we hunt for the enigma of work-life balance. Very few people do balance well and that’s OK.

5 key concepts to remember when insuring your SME

As with insurance – and all things in life – honesty is always the best policy. And, when it comes to insurance – both business and personal – five concepts are key

How discounting can harm a business

Some salespeople have a tendency to think that giving a discount is the easiest, and quickest way to make a sale. Of course, they may be right, but what about the profit they are giving away?

All about COVID-19 vaccination boosters

Depending on which vaccine you received, you will either have had one or two initial vaccines doses and then, between two and six months afterwards are eligible for a booster.

How you can improve workplace health and wellness

Employee wellness is an important priority as a business owner. This article takes you through ways to improve the health and wellness of your workplace and your staff.

Imagin8 - Dream big, exceed those dreams, and dream even bigger

In this interview, we find out more about Adam Rabinowitz (owner, founder, and Chief Imaginator of Imagin8) his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

FREE GUIDE :: 2022 Talent Outlook - Trends & Uncertainties: A local perspective

In this guide you'll find out more about: hiring outlook, hybrid working; flexibility culture; diversity & inclusion and wellbeing.

3 ways to meet new hybrid expectations with Microsoft Teams and Microsoft 365

Discover new product innovations, from Microsoft, designed to help make hybrid work work.

ONLINE COURSE: Finance Essentials for Small Business

Manage your small business successfully with these finance essentials from accounting professors Jim and Kay Stice brought to you by Microsoft and hosted on LinkedIn Learning.

What is Nedbank Money Message?

Create and send invoices to your customers and receive payments into any bank account of your choice via WhatsApp. You don’t even need to be a Nedbank client to use Nedbank Money Message.

PODCAST :: The Business of Small Business

Discover more about "Building financially strong businesses, developing business solutions and supporting each other" with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Telkom Business.

Launch My Startup: It's time to get your business off the ground

Want to be selected to get your FREE CIPC Company Registration and lifetime NSBC Membership?

REPLAY :: Love Jacaranda: Business in a digital economy

Join the NSBC and Vodacom Business for the latest instalment of the Fast Forward Series: Season 3 featuring Christina Close, Co-Founder Love Jacaranda - a successful online South African business.

How to minimize your credit risk when extending trade credit terms

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Mandy Pretorius (Experian Head of Product) as they discuss how to minimize your own credit risk / What to look for when extending trade credit terms?

Anyone can sell

If you are in business, you must sell. If you don’t like selling, then you should get out of business. No matter what level of the organization you are in, you are the chief rainmaker. You need to do marketing and selling.

The Business of Small Business: Building financially strong businesses, developing business solutions and supporting each other

Telkom Business will be looking at the different environments that small businesses find themselves operating in, what possible solutions exist for them and also how the public and private sectors can lend their support.

How to become financially fit – Experian’s United for Financial Health drive

How to become Financially Fit” and how Experian aims to help individuals and small businesses to recover from the past few years. Let’s see what they had to say.

Common FAQs regarding startups

Many startups have questions about how to run a business. Let’s look at six common frequently asked questions about startups when they consider shares and taxes.

Fact: No matter the size of your business, you need insurance

If the past two years have shown South African companies anything, it’s that no business can afford to be without insurance. Whether you’re a growing SMME or still starting up out of your garage, insurance is critical.

Crafting a successful business that buys you freedom

Money is a key resource required to invest in the business’s growth and once that has been achieved it will allow you to buy time and freedom. You can’t buy time and freedom at the exclusion of having a business that first generates strong cashflows

COVID-19: how and when might it all end?

COVID-19 has disrupted the world in so many ways, including the uncertainty of what the future holds. The Bonitas Medical Fund clinical and actuarial teams unpack some of the pandemic versus endemic terminology and offer scenarios for the future.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Job Crystal

In this interview, we find out more about Kelly Louw (COO of Job Crystal), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

Launch My Startup - Sponsoring 1000 new startups

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the Launch My Startup initiative. Discover how you can be one of 1000 new startups who will be sponsored.

REPLAY :: Growth of the hybrid workplace: Technology driving SMMEs of the future

In this power-packed LIVE Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Thibault Dousson (General Manager of Lenovo Southern Africa).

UPCOMING EVENT :: ActionCOACH Entrepreneurship Series : Learn how to gain freedom in your business

14 April 2022 09:00 AM - This Freedom Month, join ActionCOACH Thabo Pitse as he discusses how your business should be a vehicle to support the life you want. If your business isn't giving you that FREEDOM make sure to join this.

REPLAY :: How to Become Financially Fit: Experian's "United for Financial Health" drive

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Ferdie Pieterse (Experian Africa CEO) about Experian's "United for Financial Health" drive and why it's so important that businesses get financially fit and credit savvy.

INFOGRAPHIC: The Empower Process

7 steps to help SMB leaders select the right business management solution

How do you establish your brand in Africa?

In a recent webinar at The Business Show :: Africa 2022, Mzamo Masito (Chief Marketing Officer for Google Africa), gave us some tips and tools to work on building a sustainable and successful brand.

Your SME, load shedding and insurance: what you need to know

Load shedding can make it tricky for many SMEs to keep their lights on and doors open. And, apart from its impact on your operations, load shedding comes with insurance considerations too.

Absa launches campaign to support small businesses

In a move aimed at supporting, growing and rewarding small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Absa has launched the Absa Small Business Friday campaign. The initiative comes at a time when SMEs are slowly finding their feet...

Right price: A path to running a profitable business

There are several methodologies you can use to set the prices for the products and services you sell. Many businesses take the easy way out by simply adding a markup to their costs and changing the price each time their expenses increase.

SMEs are key to driving e-commerce success in South Africa

The mere act of using your phone or computer to order things that you need, which then show up at your door within hours still seems quite magical. Add to this that those few clicks could boost South Africa’s economic recovery.

Unauthorised use of company property for private use, dismissible or not?

Using company property by an employee is a direct result of the existence of an employment relationship. Company property should therefore be used for work-related purposes only.

Demystifying small business funding

For small business owners and entrepreneurs, there has never been a time when a thorough awareness and knowledge of the different financing options available to them has been so vital.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Love Jacaranda

In this interview, we find out more about Christina Close (Co-Founder of Love Jacaranda), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR :: Data protection and security, what businesses need to know

6 & 26 April at 11:00 CAT - Data protection and security, what businesses need to know, our industry experts will discuss the importance of data protection, POPIA vs GDPR, risks and costs of data breaches and more.

The future of job creation is here!

Starting a business with little or no money but plenty of passion, perseverance and persistence is the way to go. Don’t allow not having startup capital to destroy your dreams. It’s time to change the mindset and go from zero to hero.

Understanding the digital economy: a quick breakdown

Whether you know it as the new economy, the web economy, the internet economy or the digital economy, the new way of doing business is here and it is becoming more prolific each year. But what is this new economy and how does one participate in it?

Solving unemployment by climbing a ladder

By understanding the concept we call the Entrepreneurial Ladder – you can be clear on where you are right now, and just how high you want (and are willing) to climb:

How to build employer-employee relationships in the digital world

The digital world has opened multiple channels you can use to build relationships with your employees. But how? And is it as effective as in-person contact? Though in-person contact is the best way to build relationships...

Unleash the power of your small business with Microsoft 365

We’re excited to expand on this SMB platform by rolling out a brand-new security offering. These new products are purpose-built to unleash the power of small businesses.

Protecting your business in divorce

When people get married, they always hope for ‘happily ever after,’ but the sad fact is that some marriages will end in divorce. Divorce affects families as well as businesses. How can you limit the risks?

How to set business goals during a VUCA world

Because of this unpredictability of the world, we need to become more agile in our goal creation. How do we set goals in a VUCA world?

It’s time to create your own ‘culture club’

A popular statement asserts that culture eats strategy for breakfast. This might be true, but it also may be just partly true. Good culture enables or empowers strategy while dysfunctional culture bites into strategy, or totally devours it.

Investing in your employee’s wellness is the smartest business decision you can make

Whether stress is high, moderate or low, leaders and employers must address the mental and emotional impact on employees, the risk of high levels of burnout, and lower productivity.

Business Boost :: Why it’s so important to support small business

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the nation building-initiative, Small Business Friday (Sponsored by Absa) and why you need to get involved today.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Sage Wise

In this interview we find out more about Darshen Moodley (CEO & Founder of Sage Wise), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR :: Growth of the hybrid workplace: Technology driving SMMEs of the future

Wednesday, 23 March 2022 @ 9:30 In this LIVE Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Thibault Dousson (General Manager of Lenovo Southern Africa) aboutthe growth of the hybrid workplace and the right technology for SMMEs.

WEBINAR :: How to Become Financially Fit - hosted at Breakfast Connect

Wednesday, 30 March 2022 @ 9:30 Join us for a morning of inspired virtual networking with Karen Woest (Product Manager Experian Africa) and discover how to minimize your own credit risk and what to look for when extending trade credit terms.

How to make your business more profitable

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they look at some key tips on how to increase your profits. It all starts with asking "Is my business doing what it should be doing?"

REPLAY :: How to build your brand in Africa

Join us for this highly insightful session where the Mzamo Masito (Chief Marketing Officer for Google Africa) shares how you can grow your business and build a successful brand in Africa.

FREE GUIDE :: Grow your business online

A simple step-by-step guide for small businesses to help them discover how to grow their business online. Learn about Google Search and Google Maps and how to be visible to your current and potential clients.

There is nothing small about the impact small businesses have on our economy

Small Business Friday is South Africa’s biggest small business movement and it’s back for the eleventh consecutive year. The movement is brought to the nation by the National Small Business Chamber (NSBC) and sponsored by Absa

10 ways to manage your cash flow and grow your profit

Why is management of cash so important? Think of it this way, cash is to business as what fuel is to your car. If you run out of fuel the car stops.

What is a business due diligence?

Due diligence is a thorough investigation into the legal and financial affairs of the entity. And the question of how thorough and to what extent the investigation must be done depends on the purpose of the investigation...

#EntrepreneurshipIssues: Is it really easy for SMMEs to secure funding?

As per my previous columns, I encourage small business owners to look for funding when they want to grow their businesses. However, I’ve been asking myself this question for a long time now – Is it that easy for SMMEs to access funding?

South Africa: gaining traction with start-ups

The Startup Genome’s Global Startup Ecosystem Report for 2021 was released recently and this is what it had to say about Africa as a region and some of the most prosperous ecosystems in Africa.

CIPC introduces artificial intelligence

The CIPC is constantly reinventing itself to offer its end-users and stakeholders the best service possible. The latest innovation at the organisation is the use of artificial intelligence.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Pharsyde Accounting

In this interview, we find out more about Tamryn Dicks (Owner of Pharsyde Accounting), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

How to create an effective strategic plan for your business

Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) discuss the importance of strategic planning for your business as well as some key pointers as to how to do this effectively to get ahead.

REPLAY :: The important link between financial and mental health when building a SMME

In this power-packed Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC) interviews Dr Nirmala Reddy (Nedbank) about the important link between mental and financial health.

Growing your small business through skills development

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC) and George Mushaike (W&RSETA) as they discuss the W&RSETA’s interventions to support the SMMEs through skills development.

Benefits of a Second New Year

Fortunately for most businesses, 1 March 2022 is actually the true start of the year. The financial year for most businesses starts on the first of March and therefore this is the critical time to take stock, refocus and realign...

The value of implementing a social media policy in your business

It is therefore really important to establish a social media policy that addresses all the different scenarios where social media is used, and can affect employees, the reputation and security of employers, and the privacy of their customers.

How the right technology can help empower SMEs in a hybrid environment

The right technology provides not just productivity, but personal connectivity. Video conferencing tools and collaboration platforms have played a critical role in maintaining visibility among colleagues and keeping employees efficient.

South Africa grows number of women business owners, despite challenges – Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs

Despite the gender gap and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, women in South Africa are making progress as entrepreneurs, indicating a strong will and determination to survive.

Create, send and get your invoices paid on WhatsApp with Nedbank Money Message

Whatever your business, you can now create and send invoices to your customers and receive payments into any bank account of your choice via WhatsApp.

6 reasons why a business credit report is invaluable

A business credit report has become a litmus test for companies that want to establish solid foundations and build trusted reputations. It’s an important part of putting your business on the map...

How SMEs can win the battle for talent

When it comes to talent, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are fishing in exactly the same pool as large companies who are offering well-established employee brands, multiple career path opportunities and bigger remuneration packages.

WEBINAR :: Growing your small business in 2022 through skills development

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and George Mushaike (W&RSETA’s Senior Regional Manager) as they discuss The W&RSETA’s interventions to support the SMMEs through skills development. Register here. 09 March 2022 @ 09:30

Good is not good enough. How to do more great work and live a great life

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about strategies and ways to move forward in our quest to get ahead.

#StartupStory: In the Loop with Kimberly Taylor

Loop is an adaptable, intuitive delivery management platform that empowers companies by enabling them to cleverly optimise and scale their delivery systems.

Start 2022 on a positive note with these business’ finance tips

As a small business owner, it is a no brainer that financial planning is critical for survival. We encourage you to get your financial house in order by preparing a financial road map for the year ahead.

Tech trends small businesses should be considering in 2022

The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation, and businesses that don’t tap into these trends risk being left behind. Investing in new technology might seem like a burden, but in the long term it will free businesses up to focus on growth...

Embrace uncertainty in the business world

Before we look at techniques or strategies to deal with uncertainty better, we need to understand the difference between uncertainty and risk. The difference between the two has to do with the level of predictability between the two.

The importance of e-commerce and online marketplaces for SMMEs

Using a major e-commerce or online marketplace platform to sell their goods and services can allow businesses to increase their visibility through lead generation tools.

How to register a trademark in South Africa

Names, brands and slogans have power in business. Establishing your ownership of and rights to a business name is an important first step for a business that wants to make sure that their name remains one-of-a-kind.

WIN a R10,000 Takealot voucher!

What type of business owner are you? A personality quiz gives insight into your leadership style. Are you an Oprah or an Elon? Find out today - and you could win a R10,000 Takealot voucher!

Importance of experiencing failure

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about failure and the value of it looking at it in a new light - as something highly beneficial in life and business.

The Business of Small Business

Join Telkom Business as they host different conversations around small business: the state of the small business environment in South Africa, the shifts experienced during COVID-19, the current outlook and how we can all lend our support.

How to fall (BACK) in love with your business

Often, the initial goal or intention is forgotten, so much focus has been placed on managing the day-to-day of the business. When we lose focus we lose the love, the passion, and all the things. So, how do you fall back in love with your business?

Deep Work: the new competitive edge

Deep work is setting aside time in your day to work without being distracted. This means switching off all your notifications and closing your door...

4 mistakes every new entrepreneur should avoid

As a startup entrepreneur or a first-timer in the world of business, you are bound to make mistakes. It’s okay, it happens to the best of us and we all have horror stories.

Getting tax-savvy for your small business

Has your upcoming tax return got you feeling a bit under pressure? Perhaps you are not sure where to start? We have drafted five quick tips to help your tax return go smoothly and avoid any sudden non-compliance.

How to prepare your people and business for sustainable growth

In this article, we offer advice on how to manage these challenges in your business in a way that supports sustainable growth for everyone.

Boost your small business with gig workers

According to a report by Investec about the gig economy, there are 3.9 million gig workers in South Africa. So, how can small business use gig workers to boost their business?

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Adbot

In this interview, we find out more about Michelle Geere, CEO of Adbot, her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

REPLAY :: A good credit score - how to get there? How to fix your credit profile?

Join us for a power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Paul Nel (Head of Innovation - Experian Africa) plus an unmatched virtual networking experience. Friday, 11 February 2022 @ 09:30

#TheBizShowSA: Speakers have been announced

Meet our exciting line-up of industry leaders and experts for The Business Show :: Africa - 02 - 04 March 2022. Book your sessions today!

#TheBizShowSA: Bookings are open!

The Business Show :: Africa is back! Join us on 02 - 04 March 2022 for a power-packed programme of webinars, live Q&As, networking and exhibits. Book now

Rekindle your passion for your small business

Do you live for the weekend? Are you constantly being distracted while working on your business? Do you feel like throwing in the towel? Then it’s time to rekindle your passion for your small business.

How to start a business without capital

Starting a business with no money might seem impossible, but it’s often entirely doable with some clever planning. What’s more, it will teach you to be creative and entrepreneurial and make you less likely to dig into your savings.

Understanding your personal credit score and how it works

What is a credit score? A credit score, also known as a credit rating, is a number that reflects the likelihood of you repaying money you want to borrow.

4 ways to fall in love with your business

How do you as a business owner: Work harder on yourself, Become better, Gain more skills? The answer is simple – you need to make the decision to fall in love with learning

Insuring your SMME: Back to basics

Now that you’ve created your letterheads, set up your bank account, secured clients and perhaps even employed some expert support, it’s vital to ensure that your passion is safeguarded. Because failing to plan simply means planning to fail.

SMS Regulations in South Africa

South Africa has a robust and strict regulatory environment for SMS messaging. Several laws provide a framework for the mobile messaging industry regulations.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: JOBJACK

In this interview, we find out more about Christiaan van den Berg, Co-CEO of JOBJACK, his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

The business value of a credit report

A business credit report is less an unpleasant necessity and more an artist’s paintbrush. It paints the picture of your business, showcasing its financial capabilities and opening doors to credit facilities.

UPCOMING EVENT:: You´re Invited to Google for South Africa 2022

You're invited to the second edition of Google for South Africa virtual event. Friday, 09 February 2022 @ 10:00 (Use this access code when registering: 8D449D72F2C22680)

GIFT VOUCHER:: Want to run a better and more successful business?

Get your complimentary session with a Certified ActionCOACH Business Coach valued at R3995.00.

RADIO INTERVIEW :: Business Boost: How to become financially fit

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the NSBC's Financially Fit Campaign.

SPECIAL OFFER FROM VW:: The next generation of the much-loved Caddy is here.

Introducing the new Caddy Cargo and Caddy Kombi, with a stylish design and advanced driving features - transport solutions that are made for your business.

DOWNLOADABLE GUIDE: Show your business a little love

Do you feel stuck? A business idea is brewing in your mind but you struggle to see where to begin. Download ActionCOACH’s simple business plan and quick marketing plan guide today and see your business come alive.

What are your customers doing on your website?

The average person searches on Google three to four times every single day and that the search engine processes over 3.5 billion searches daily? What this means for businesses is that their customers are pretty much always online.

12 solid gold tips from a successful serial entrepreneur

Starting a business isn’t easy! You need to make sure that your dedication and zeal can weather storms and bounce back from disappointments. Lets have a look at 12 tips from a successful serial entrepreneur.

Unlocking the power of loyalty and rewards programmes is easier than you think

Brett White, CEO of independent QR-code and URL-based mobile payments and rewards platform, Zapper, looks at how businesses can use loyalty & reward programmes to better understand their customers and, help influence their buying behaviour.

Learn about asset finance with Capitalise

Buying new machinery, plant or equipment is an essential part of business growth. But ever find it racks up hefty upfront costs that put pressure on your business? We’ve partnered with Capitalise to help you understand asset finance.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: React24

In this interview, we find out more about Celeste Margo Le Roux Co-Founder of React 24, her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

How to fall in love with your business

We have Marlene Powell, presenting on how YOU as the business owner can reignite the passion in your business and learn to LOVE what you do whilst building a Commercial Profitable Business that Works with YOU!

5 ways of overcoming the fear to start your business in 2022

Fear is a great emotion and very necessary to ensure our survival. We need to balance the logic with the emotion to allow you to take a step forward. So I’ve put together five easy ways of doing just that.

How to build a core team for your business

Let’s see how you can build a core team that will help you to expand into a bigger and better business when the growth opportunities arrive.

Be wary of credit repair scammers on the prowl

Consumers should be careful of those claiming to improve credit scores and fix credit reports overnight, especially if charging an upfront fee.

The importance of e-commerce and online marketplaces for SMMEs

On the back of the pandemic, e-commerce and online marketplace platforms will continue to grow in South Africa and small and medium businesses can expect to benefit immensely from this growth.

How can SMEs survive a VUCA world?

Riots, pandemics, and power outages create a world that is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA). But how can your SME survive in a world where it feels like you are surrounded by never-ending chaos.

Working from home: Yes, it’s different to working at work

Working from home has become the norm and it’s difficult to predict when things will go back to ‘normal’. But many corporate culture experts predict that a hybrid home/office model is the way of the future.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How to become financially fit

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Thabo Hermanus (Experian Africa) for a power-packed Q&A on the role of the credit bureau and how your credit score works.

Featured business of the week :: Noble Prosperity

In this interview, we find out more about Renate Jute, owner of Noble Prosperity, her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR REPLAY: Sales Indaba: How to get the cash to flow in your business

Watch this power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and discover how you can kick off 2022 with more sales.

UPCOMING EVENT: Breakfast Connect - Discover how to become financially fit

Friday, 28 January 2022 @ 9:30 Join us for a power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Thabo Hermanus (Chief – Credit & Bureau Services, Experian Africa) plus an unmatched virtual networking experience.

Experian and NSBC partner to help South African SMEs improve their financial health

Experian and the National Small Business Chamber (NSBC) have announced a new programme to improve the financial fitness of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Trends that will shape your small business in 2022

The world has moved online and entire industries are blossoming on the Internet through innovations and digital solutions that not only cater to the needs of the business but also prioritise the Customer Experience.

An economic overview: looking back at 2021 and expectations for 2022

This article provides an economic overview of 2021, both internationally and locally, and a view of expectations for 2022.

Help your employees kickstart a side hustle

From running an e-commerce store selling homemade crafts to restoring furniture in out of a garage - South Africans are skilled at turning their passions into profit.

Four steps to SME business success in 2022

As the country now enters another year of the pandemic, but with the green shoots of a recovery starting to appear, SMEs can take the lessons learned and adapt to the “new normal”.

Relaxed lockdown could be to thank for rapid decline in COVID-19 cases

Members who were vaccinated demonstrated significantly better protection against severe illness, and barely a handful, mostly older people with co-morbidities, were hospitalised in the fourth wave.

How to get BEE certified with the CIPC

Customers can apply for a BEE certificate (i.e. Affidavit), as a stand-alone, whilst registering a private company or during the filing of an annual return. The service is open to customers with a South African ID document.

Featured business of the week :: Filmer.tv

In this interview, we find out more about Peri Van Papendorp and Janez Vermeiren, Co-Founders of Filmer.tv, their business journey and why they believe South Africa should support small business.

PODCAST: World of Work: Rebuilding the world of business

Mike Anderson, Founder and CEO of National Small Business Chamber, joins 702's Aubrey Masango to discuss how to start a business with a few resources.

Sales Indaba: How to get the cash to flow in your business

Join us on 21 January 2022 @ 9:30 for this power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) plus a one hour networking power hour.

Three trends that will impact SMEs big-time in 2022

Business owners need to be aware of the trends and innovations that are driving business in a new world. Here are three key trends of ‘what works’ that will help SMEs significantly in 2022 – to accelerate growth and boost profits.

5 strategic habits to help you conserve your cash in business

Is your business leaking money on low return-on-investment items? Then it is time to conserve your cash so that you can build a strong and prosperous company in the future.

PayFast’s top 5 payment trends for 2022

We believe the theme for 2022 will be frictionless payment processes that minimise the barriers of buying. Specifically, those that promote faster checkouts, as well as inclusion and access to the digital economy.

Learn how to register your domain via CIPC

The CIPC offers a range of integrated services to date, including the registration of a private company and acquiring a SARS tax number, UIF, and Compensation Fund reference numbers in a seamless manner.

How employee wellness affects your business

When you think of improving your bottom line, employee wellness is probably not at the top of your list. Studies show, though, that investing in employee wellness typically delivers great returns

The future of work is flexibility

Our challenge now is to find ways to shape a new world of work that keeps us authentic, engaged, and innovative, and that also allows our culture and social capital to thrive.The culture you build within your SME is the departure point.

Fast Success. What we must stop and start doing now

Before we move onto the success factor, we need to know what causes slow progress, a mediocre journey and often failure. Let’s summarise what we must STOP doing now, so we can move to a more positive conversation.

Unstoppable: The spirit of an entrepreneur and the winding road to success

Leanne Rhodes met up recently with Mike Anderson, Renate Jute (Owner of Noble Prosperity) and Shakeel Karijeker (Owner of Global Unique Fabrics) to discuss the spirit of an entrepreneur and what the road to success looks like.

Grow your business with a new digital business card

Webcard, a new digital business card that will help you promote your products and services to new customers, and help your networking with other members as you grow your business.

SMEs of Tomorrow – tips to drive growth in 2022

Experts speculate that digital transformation(DT), COVID-19 awareness, shifting supply-chain trends, and operational optimisations are among the key areas where SMEs can drive improvements, and thrive in 2022.

Encouraging a healthy work-life balance

As an employer, how do you keep your people happy? Here are five tips to encourage a healthy work-life balance in your business.

A smarter way to work: Leading a streamlined business and an action-packed life

Using technology like Xero at NML means the team can find a better balance and not feel guilty about taking time to do the things they love – whether it’s going for a surf or a run in the mountains

Here’s how insurers can protect SMEs in 2022 and beyond

Technology gives insurers the ability to provide an individual customer experience, with AI, user-friendly apps and chatbots driving a range of digital-first, human-friendly services that are tailored to the exact needs of their clients.

How to speed up your success going into 2022

As we are now closing in on 2022, business owners and entrepreneurs everywhere need to uplift their game and fine-tune strategies so as to succeed beyond all expectations.

5 virtual selling trends to look out for

According to Mckinsey, about 80 per cent of buyers prefer virtual selling because it is easier to schedule and the travel costs are lowered. With these statistics in mind, what are the trends for virtual selling?

Black Friday 2021 breaks PayFast records once again

Following a record-breaking Black Friday / Cyber Monday period in 2020, it’s not surprising that this year we once again broke records with this year’s total online transaction volumes increasing by a further 34%.

SMEs of tomorrow – tips to drive growth in 2022

xperts speculate that digital transformation(DT), COVID-19 awareness, shifting supply-chain trends, and operational optimisations are among the key areas where SMEs can drive improvements, and thrive in 2022.

Local SMEs turn to low-risk growth capital ahead of festive season

Small businesses across the country are turning to non-interest bearing financing options in an effort to secure growth funding ahead of the festive season.

Get BEE certified via the CIPC platforms

The CIPC, since its inception, has been progressively offering a number of company-related services to its customers. One of the offerings is concerning the BEE certificate (i.e. Affidavit) that exempted micro enterprises can apply for.

Vicarious liability of employers in terms of the Protection Of Personal Information Act

At its heart, the Act seeks to enhance the constitutional right to privacy, give data subjects some form of control over their personal information and ensure that organisations processing information do so in line with POPIA.

Webinar Replay :: IoT (Internet of Things) for Small Businesses

In this live Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) interviews Vusi Mngomezulu (Head of Sales at IoT.nxt) about the Internet of Things (IoT) Technology and how it can transform your business. Brought to you by Vodacom.

Business Boost :: How to speed up your success going into 2022

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about what is to come in 2022 and how to fine tune our stategies to prepare for the new year and how to speed up your success.

South Africa: gaining traction with start-ups

The Startup Genome’s Global Startup Ecosystem Report for 2021 was released recently and this is what it had to say about Africa as a region and some of the most prosperous ecosystems in Africa.

10 management lessons to live by

We can’t get away from the fact that management skills have had to be scrutinised even more than before since the pandemic kicked in. We are all facing a multitude of challenges on top of the usual work and personal stress we were accustomed to.

Smart marketing: you’ve got mail

Digital marketing has many elements but one which is cost-effective and viable for SMEs to pursue is e-mail marketing. E-mails are important in converting clicks into clients. Let’s take look at eight questions around CRMs and email strategies.

5 ways SMMEs can become competitive in e-commerce

A few years ago, the majority of South Africans had never made a single purchase online. Today, the local e-commerce market has experienced a massive boom as lockdown restrictions made online shopping feel like the only option.

PayFast launches second e-commerce performance index

From the rise of contactless payments to the boom in social commerce, the pandemic has significantly altered consumer expectations when it comes to making purchases online.

The important link between financial and mental health when building a successful small, medium or microenterprise

Stress and anxiety are often dubbed the ‘silent killers’ of SMEs, so being able to access holistic business and financial support that helps to alleviate the stress of business owners and employees is key to ensuring the survival of any business.

6 entrepreneurial lessons learned the hard way

or some reason, many people think the word ‘entrepreneur’ is synonymous with success. They don’t see the hard work, the skinned knees, the effort it takes to get up and try again after you’ve fallen.

Business Boost :: Be Brutal on the Money

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about being "brutal on the money" and how to protect yourself from financial disruptions in your business.

Webinar Alert :: Disruption is inevitable - thriving in a post-pandemic world

Monday, 29 November 2021 @ 14:00 As 2021 draws to a close we now look ahead at the promise of a Future of Work. It’s time now to develop renewed strategies to attract, retain and shape high-preforming talent models.

All the winners of the 2021 South African Small Business Awards are announced

South Africa’s Top 20 Finalists, Special Award Winners and the Main Category Award Winners have been announced.

Business Boost - Small Business in the Spotlight

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the 2021 South African Small Business Awards, what it takes to become a business champion, why there is a local and global emphasis on small business.

Future-proofing your small business to weather the storm

When talking about the future, we need to look at the current situation and this may be uncomfortable at times, but we must plan to recover and future-proof our small business. But how can we do it

Grow your business with customer surveys

Customer surveys can help you gather critical intel on what opinions your customer has about your business.

Boost your digital marketing skills with Forge Academy

Forge Academy in partnership with the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) offers 6 digital marketing courses in the following disciplines:

6 ways to bubble-wrap your small business

All companies are prone to risk but being properly prepared can save you from the worst.

Mastercard Economics Institute: Small business creation in South Africa grew 13% from 2019 to 2020

To shed light on the impact of the global health crisis and the ongoing recovery thereof that has had a significant impact on small businesses globally, Mastercard has released Recovery Insights

Webinar Replay :: E-commerce growth in South Africa and Financing Solutions

Join Global Sourcing Fair South Africa and Global Sources International and discover in how to tap into the e-commerce industry in South Africa and various SME financing options and considerations.

Business Boost with Mix 93.8 FM

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the state of small business, the startup revolution and what it takes to bounce back and be successful.

The Top 20 winners are announced for the 2021 South African Small Business Awards

The NSBC in association with World Famous Events, has today announced South Africa’s ‘Top 20’ for the 2021 South African Small Business Awards.

How to stand out in a crowded and noisy digital world

Are you finding that your brand is being swallowed up in a digital crowd? Are you struggling to get traction on your social media ads? If this sounds familiar to you then sit tight as we explain how you can stand out in a crowded digital world.

4 steps to building an online community

Online communities. This strategy looks at creating a place online for individuals interested in your brand to gather and interact with each other.

5 ways to level up into a small business

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for taking a start-up to the next level. Deciding to take this leap is exciting, but it’s not without risks. Planning ahead and seeking sound advice can position you to navigate the challenges and opportunities.

Platform technology: a big boost for the democratisation of payments

The real power of platforms is demonstrated when delivering services equitably, easily and at scale. In the rapidly evolving world of payments, platforms are game changers.

Sales hunters are now an endangered species

You may have the best product, service and offering, but if people don’t know that you exist, you are never going to sell it. If you want to stand out from your competitors, it’s time to develop your sales hunting skills.

The role of technology in helping local delivery entrepreneurs reach success

Long after the pandemic has ended, the logistics industry will remain the lifeblood of our economy. Therefore, implementing data-driven, smart, and informative technology solutions should be non-negotiable.

What is a transactional SMS and why should you use it?

What makes using SMS for transactional notifications so effective? The answer lies in the very nature of text messages, and it is why so many businesses are using transactional messages to streamline their processes.

An increasingly common life-changing disease

Cancer remains a silent killer that threatens the lives of many in South Africa. Facing this potentially deadly disease may result in life-long scars, often leaving one discouraged and feeling defeated.

How to build a smart office for your SME

And what are the real benefits of a smart office? In this article, we will look at the jargon and benefits of a smart office and how you can build one. You may be surprised by how many smart tools you are already using.

The 4 biggest challenges facing sales

When training and coaching salespeople, I always highlight four key areas. If you’re lacking in one of these areas, you are never going to reach your true sales potential. This remains true, regardless of the impact of COVID-19

How to prepare your online store for Black Friday 2021

To ensure a successful Black Friday, it’s important to have a strategy in place to make sure you have all the resources needed to meet your customers’ expectations and to avoid any nasty surprises.

What you didn’t know about medical schemes in South Africa

South African medical aid schemes play an important role in the healthcare industry of the country. Without medical aids, many South Africans will not able to afford the quality healthcare that private medical practitioners and hospitals provide.

Seasonality and Small Business: How South Africa’s SMEs can plan for the festive season

An accurate cashflow forecast means creating a rolling 12-month spreadsheet and a commitment to update it every month. In this way, businesses can anticipate cash flow shortages, and be able to plan for uncertain times.

How can SMEs survive a VUCA world?

How can your SME survive in a world where it feels like you are surrounded by never-ending chaos. Let’s take a look at four ideas of an SME surviving in a VUCA world.

Humanizing and Personalizing the banking experience

Infobip is hosting a complimentary webinar on 2 November at 11:00. Their CX and Industry experts will discuss the importance of mobile channels for banks and financial institutions, industry best practices and more.

The DNA of a Sales Guru

In this article, we will look at what is in the DNA of a Sales Guru. Then we will see how you can look at it and take from the primary elements in the DNA and implement them for you to experience greater success.

The cost of cybercrime for SMEs

Depending on whose numbers you believe, cybercrime will cost the global economy anything between $1 trillion and $6 trillion this year alone.

Medical Aid terms to understand before seeking quotes in South Africa

Getting medical aid quotes in South Africa is not too hard – most schemes today offer an easy way to access their quoting system. When you do not know what you are being quoted for, however, the process can get a little tricky.

#EntrepreneurshipIssues: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

The income that comes from the cash-based section of a business is meant to supplement the service business’ cashflow and close the gap when clients either have delayed or not paid at all.

Tech for business the Incredible way

When it comes to supporting small businesses, Incredible Connection is all business. For over two decades, we’ve offered leading tech, first-to-market innovations, finance options, and tech support that deliver practical solutions for every business.

Podcast 101 – your guide to get on the air

By creating a podcast, you may be able to bring more awareness about your products or service and you can leverage yourself as an industry leader with your podcast. But how do you create one?

How to start an online business

Find out what it takes to start and run an online business. And learn how it differs from a regular brick-and-mortar operation. This guide includes tips and insights from experts and owners who’ve done it all before.

Never surrender – from start-up to greatness

Mike Anderson (Founder & CEO of the NSBC) has spent many years researching and participating in the entrepreneurial journey and identified some key ingredients to becoming an entrepreneurial legend. Let’s look at these 12 key ingredients.

Marketing automation: an SME guide

By automating your processes you can keep a keen eye on your marketing efforts and see which ones are successful and what needs a better process. Let’s look at how to automate your marketing.

NFC versus QR code payments – there’s room for both

As the demand for contactless payments increases, business owners are debating whether to adopt NFC or QR codes as the best technology. But, both have a path forward in mobile payments, says Zapper CEO Brett White.

7 ways for SMEs to manage their risks

While it’s impossible to prevent incidents, well-prepared businesses can manage their risks through a comprehensive business insurance portfolio that mitigates the damages and after-effects.

Multifunctional printers: multitasking powerhouses for SMEs

Small businesses always seem to do a lot with very little and having access to one of these powerhouse printers will give you solutions that will make your working day a lot easier.

5 tips to boost empathy in the workplace

Many people have cognitive empathy but few can engage or take action to support someone when they have recognised the emotion. So how do you boost empathy in the workplace?

Webinar Replay :: From startup to greatness

Are you willing to go after success? Do you have a clear vision? Do you have a burning desire? Are you willing to fail? If so, you are well on your way to succeeding.

How to rebuild your business after a national crisis

Crises. They come whether global or local, your small business will encounter a crisis at one time or another but how can you rebuild when you have been brought to your knees?

5 productivity tips to help drive small business growth

With the right technology, you can save time, generate more leads, and enable new, more productive ways of working. Here are five productivity tips to help your growing business thrive and adapt.

What is QR code standardisation and why do we need it?

What exactly is QR code standardisation and how would it affect businesses, consumers, and payment providers?

SA’s small businesses to focus on financial literacy, boosting revenue and tech adoption amid COVID-19’s lasting consequences

Almost two thirds of small business owners in South Africa are concerned with overcoming financial instability. Xero is setting out nine recommendations for the government and wider business community to make life easier for small firms.

Digitalisation in South Africa: From recovery to success

Digitalisation was already underway when COVID-19 began its rapid global spread, although many South African business owners had not yet felt the immediate impact of this trend.

The 2021 SA Small Business Awards – How to make your entry stand out

Celebrating the importance and success of small businesses in South Africa, entries for the 2021 South African Small Business Awards will be closing soon. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind when entering.

Post-pandemic goal setting for your SME

As the world starts to emerge from the pandemic and more vaccines are administered and more businesses start to open, what is your goal for your SME? How can you set goals for a post-pandemic world? Let’s look at six ways to set a goal for your SME.

Why CRM systems are key to the growth of South African SMEs

In this article, we’ll be focusing on one of the key trends that was identified in particular: the increased adoption by South African SMEs of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems.

Marketing for SMMEs during a crisis

Marketing is crucial to any business whether or not you make sales; continuous communication of your product or service must be made to the potential consumer. Otherwise, one runs the risk of having their product or service forgotten.

Nedbank ensures there are big things in store for small businesses

Nedbank is launching its Big Things for Small Business campaign, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to win their share of R1 million.

4 tips on how businesses can navigate today’s complex risks

It is important to note that having good risk management practices, updated safety training for employees and clients alike, as well as a solid plan for the new normal can influence whether or not a business makes it past this next hurdle.

How to choose the best printer for your SME

Trying to match the right copier/printer to your business can be quite overwhelming. Do you choose a cheaper model and hope that it meets your current business requirements, or do you go for the new, pricey model....

TikTok: is it fad or the emerging standard in social media

TikTok. Depending on who you speak to some may say it is the sound of a grandfather clock in the hallway or the fastest-growing social media platform in recent years. But is it a fad or an emerging new platform which SMEs need to take note of?

The art of being paid: A free kit to help your business speed up late payments

While several large South African companies pledged to pay SMEs faster, the issue of late payments still looms large. So what can businesses do to work with their clients and customers to ensure timely payments are being made in full?

South Africa’s top start-ups and small businesses are making world-wide waves – here’s how you can join them

we explore the three factors that have enabled South Africa’s top small businesses to grow and scale successfully: getting the right tools for the job, making their sales processes more efficient, and delivering unparalleled customer experience.

The benefits of SMS

SMS provides a simple and cost-effective way of communicating with customers, but the benefits go far beyond that. Which is exactly why it remains an essential part of communication and marketing strategies.

Choosing a medical aid when you are on a budget

It is important that the medical aid you choose will meet your health needs. Do not compromise on your health. Make sure you get more for less. Rather pay a bit more now and save in the future.

Back to better: everything you need to know about cash flow

Dext is your go-to platform for getting on top of business finances – and back to an even better place. We put you in control of your business within minutes, giving you all the tools you need to capture, upload and track your cashflow

Nominate a small business you admire and they could win up to R100 000 in interest-free funding + more

Join the CapeTownMagazine.com and Lulalend initiative to put deserving small businesses, from anywhere in the country and any sector of the economy, in the spotlight.

The mistakes, the myths and the best advice when starting a business

There is no right or wrong time to start. But there is no better time than the present to start a business. A global start-up revolution is happening now.

The on-demand economy: an SME guide

In this article we will define what is the on-demand economy, what does the workforce look like, and how can small businesses use the on-demand economy to build their business.

Why PR is so important for small businesses

PR services do not have to be expensive – SMMEs can start building their brand with very small budgets and use social media to keep their brands top of mind to potential and existing customers.

What should you do if your business is hacked?

Statistically speaking, being hacked is more an issue of ‘when’ and not ‘if’, with a small business being successfully hacked every 19 seconds in the UK. If you find yourself on the receiving end of a hack or data breach, it can be easy to panic.

Giraffe: The technology behind the mobile platform tackling South Africa’s unemployment crisis

South African mobile recruitment platform, Giraffe, was founded with a clear mission – to help people find jobs, and change lives in the process. In a country where one in four people are unemployed, the platform is sorely needed.

Here’s how to make your medical aid comparison process a little easier

For many South Africans the idea of paying a hefty hospital bill is enough to make them run for the hills. Private healthcare in the country is costly, but fortunately, there are plenty of medical aid schemes to choose from

A head start for your start up

When it comes to tech, Incredible Connection is all business. For the past 26 years, we have not only offered the widest range of leading tech brands and made first-to-market innovation accessible to all businesses – big and small

Webinar Alert :: E-commerce growth in South Africa and Financing Solutions

Join Global Sourcing Fair South Africa and Global Sources International for a webinar on 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 at 10:30 (SAST) in how to tap into the e-commerce industry in South Africa and various SME financing options and considerations.

10 powerful insights for your strategic planning day

Here are 10 insights to plan your day strategically.

How to partner with a social media influencer to promote your brand

Whether we love them or hate them, there’s no denying the power that social media influencers have over their followers. Their endorsement or denouncement of a product or service can literally make or break a brand’s credibility.

Webinar Replay - The DNA of a Sales Guru

Hosted at The Business Show :: Africa. Join Mark Keating (SALESGURU CEO) as you learn how to develop a winning mindset, increase your activities, improve your sales skills, and reach your goals.

Webinar Replay :: Never Surrender - From Startup to Greatness

Hosted at The Business Show :: Africa If you apply the tips by Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO), they will help you succeed in business and in life.

Webinar Replay :: Unstoppable: The spirit of an entrepreneur and the winding road to success

Join Leanne Rhodes (NBSC Creative Director) as she interviews Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO), Renate Jute (Owner of Noble Prosperity) and Shakeel Karjieker (Ownber of Global Unique Fabrics).

Webinar Replay :: Stand out in a crowded digital world

Join Leanne Rhodes (NSBC Creative Director) as she discusses branding strategies to give your business that unique edge.

Webinar Replay :: Future proofing small business to weather the storm

Join Anita Opperman(Mastercard - Commercial Sales Specialist) as she discusses how to drive your cash flow, better manage your finances and discover new reliable and trustworthy tools and solutions to meet the needs of fast-evolving consumers.

Webinar Replay :: Smart Marketing: You’ve got mail!

Join Ines Rosef Ingram (Pine3 Marketing CEO) & Mike Anderson (NSBC FOUnder & CEO) in the 3rd installment of the Fast Forward Series - Season 3 brought to you by Vodacom.

Webinar Alert :: A specialised employee benefit solution for the SMME Industry

Kick start 2022 with our exciting, technologically advanced human capital solutions - benefitting your employees and your bottom line.

The South African Small Business Awards to recognise entrepreneurial excellence

The prestigious South African Small Business Awards recognises the tireless journey, hard work and outstanding achievements of Small Businesses and Entrepreneurial Success.

4 key small business marketing statistics for 2021

2021 has been a rollercoaster of a year, but let’s look at four key small business marketing statistics for the world and South Africa.

How to build an SMS database the right way

So, you’ve got a great SMS marketing campaign idea and you’re all set to hit send, but do you even know who your SMSes are going to?

Webinar Replay :: Wellness Workshop

When staff members are able to access the wellness tools and healthcare they need; businesses stand to benefit from improved productivity and a more engaged workforce.

Webinar Replay :: Introducing getlion™️ - Africa's go-to platform for entrepreneurs

Want to find out more about the mobile app, where you can access knowledge, tools & services, funding, rewards and a first-of-it’s-kind marketplace to sell online. Use this access Passcode: Getlion2@2@

Webinar Replay :: Effective Sales Management in a changed world

How to focus on leading a sales team and the management of high-yield activities that ensure not only that the target is met, but a healthy pipeline is being created.

No time like now for start-ups and SMMEs

For entrepreneurs and those who have dreamed of starting their own business one day, right now is the best time to launch a small business, or to change the trajectory of existing small, micro or medium enterprises (SMMEs).

8 steps to building a sustainable small business

Many entrepreneurs start a business to leave a legacy for those who will follow them, but is your company built to be sustainable?

Tips for growing your career as a female founder

Here are five pieces of actionable advice for female entrepreneurs, accountants, and professionals:

#WomensMonth: If you want something, go get it

It takes time for people to recognise true talent, so don’t let doubt put you down. Your story may just be beginning but your pursuit of happiness will pay off, given patience and drive.

Telkom pledges support valued from R10m to rebuild small businesses in aftermath of unrest

The Telkom SME Relief initiative, currently valued at R10 million, is aimed at providing aid to small business owners to rebuild their businesses and to urge South Africans and the private sector to rally behind SMEs.

The Young Entrepreneur’s Playbook

In a time of crisis and unpredictability, Lindile Xoko has written a guide, a playbook, a step-by-step ‘how to’ for the budding entrepreneur. The Young Entrepreneur’s Playbook

Vodacom’s Fast Forward Series continues to nurture small-business success

Currently in its third season, after successfully debuting in 2019, the aim of the free-to-attend series is to drive meaningful change and growth that enables crucial digitalisation within the SME business environment.

Webinar Alert :: Key strategies to boost shopping sales and deliver a better shopping experience

26 August @ 10:00 Learn how to build a seamless customer experience and boost retail and ecommerce sales with this webinar from Infobip.

5 steps to projecting professionalism online

With many meetings going online, appearing professional has become a prerequisite. Here are five quick steps to project a professional image online.

How to get clients and build your customer base

The search for new clients and customers drives most businesses. However, finding new customers is one of the most difficult challenges

Get yourself registered for Xero Roadshow 2021

Join us for a morning of insight and inspiration on 26 August 2021, as we dive into accelerating your business, your clients a