Latest news with #StellaNdabeni
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
South Africa calls for greater support for small businesses amid rising protectionism
JOHANNESBURG, July 23 (Xinhua) -- South Africa hosted the inaugural Global Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Ministerial Meeting at a time of mounting challenges for small businesses, marked by disrupted supply chains, shifting geopolitics, and rising protectionism, according to the country's business minister. "Global value chains are undergoing rapid changes, with rising trade protectionism posing a threat to markets for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), especially in developing and less developed countries," Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni said on Wednesday. Addressing the Global SME Ministerial Meeting in Johannesburg, Ndabeni noted that these challenges are having a direct impact on developing economies and emerging enterprises. Ndabeni said efforts are underway to enhance support for MSMEs in accessing markets and finance, and to position them as strategic actors in the global economy. "This is why we are advocating for the establishment of a dedicated G20 MSME and Startup Working Group, to be formally included in the G20 Declaration in November. Let this be one of the key legacies of our collective efforts," she said. Ndabeni said substantial work had been undertaken to support MSMEs in the lead-up to the meeting. She highlighted the vital role MSMEs play in driving economic growth and innovation, describing them as "engines of economies and incubators of innovation." The meeting, running from Tuesday to Thursday, is intended to empower participants with knowledge, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and promote the development of strategic partnerships at both bilateral and multilateral levels, in order to strengthen national MSME support ecosystems, Ndabeni said.
The South African
22-07-2025
- Business
- The South African
G20: Startup20 Engagement Group's FIVE priorities unveiled
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni has unveiled South Africa's priorities for the Startup20 Engagement Group – an official engagement group under the country's G20 presidency. The minister was delivering remarks at the midterm meeting held at Birchwood in Boksburg on Monday. Startup20 serves as a platform for startups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to engage with G20 leaders on the challenges and opportunities they face. Foundation and alliance – with the focus on enabling policies, and ways to build a more supportive and resourced eco-system for early-stage entrepreneurs and scale-ups. Finance and investment – with the focus on addressing gaps in early-stage financing, cross-border financing, and ways to derisk investment, for underserved regions and groups like women and youth, including through pre-investment capital readiness support. Inclusion and sustainability – with the focus on circular economy models, green innovation incentives, and pre-investment business support for youth and women led enterprises to improve capital readiness. Market access – with the focus on facilitating international trade, enabling e-commerce, reforming public procurement systems and supporting regional integration Township and rural entrepreneurship – with the focus on strengthening local value chains, improving infrastructure and connectivity, and improving access to finance and eco-system support for supporting co-operatives and micro enterprises. 'Task teams made up of South African and international representatives have been established in these five priority areas. 'This Midterm Engagement Group Session provides the opportunity for these task forces together with others in the broader eco-system to develop policy recommendations that culminate in a clear programme of action to be finalised in the Startup20 Summit on 13-14 November. 'This summit in November will also include the inaugural Startup20 Awards, where the best startups and eco-system enablers from the G20 countries will be recognised. We will also, as DSBD, integrate our Presidential MSME Awards where we recognise and reward our best local talent,' Ndabeni said. She emphasised that South Africa would utilise its G20 presidency to champion 'issues of the Global South and Africa in particular, including issues of public debt, food security, market access, and the availability and cost of capital'. 'With the African Union's induction as a permanent G20 member in 2023, Africa's voice is now more prominent in global policymaking. South Africa plays a dual role: both as a sovereign G20 member and as a strategic member of the AU. As such we are well positioned to support the continent's startup and MSME agenda. 'This alignment allows for greater policy coherence, enabling South Africa to serve as a bridge between global discourse and regional development aspirations, particularly in areas such as startup financing, regulatory reform, and digital transformation,' the Minister said. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
02-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
South Africa's new business licensing policy aims to protect local interests
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni has released the national business licensing policy after it was approved by the Cabinet. Image: GCIS Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni has publicly released the national business licensing policy following its approval by Cabinet, with the policy looking to preserve certain sectors for South African citizens. In terms of the policy, it aims to ensure standardised and common policies across the country for business licensing. Its further objectives include delineating South Africa's sovereign right to determine the business licensing conditions for foreign nationals in line with its national interest as well as to provide for the reservation of sectors in respect of which a license may only be granted to South African citizens. It also notes that South Africa has emerged as one of the high immigrant recipient countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and the resident immigrant population has increased substantially in the last three decades. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'This development has not been addressed systematically, including setting conditions under which foreign-owned businesses can operate, the skills and other attributes required of those businesses, and how they complement capabilities deficits in South Africa,' reads the policy. It states that several frameworks inform the context for South Africa's policy approach to general business licensing. Internationally, the country's membership of the World Trade Organisation and the United Nations, among others obligates adherence to rules and regulations set out in the various multilateral treaties with implications on trade regulation. Some obligations include the treatment of investors and foreign investments to the same standards as local investors and the receipt and granting of trading rights to refugees. On the accommodation of foreign nationals in the granting of general business licenses it proposes policies that have proactive provisions for the granting of licences to foreign nationals. 'The provisions should clarify the additional criteria to be met by this category of applicants guided by the Immigration Act of 2002 as amended and any other relevant legislation. Licensing authorities should also consider awareness programmes to educate both the citizens and non-nationals on the relevant criteria and promote open and harmonious trading conditions within their jurisdiction,' the policy explains. The Immigration Act sets out categories of permits available to foreign nationals and their conditions in relation to trade while through the Spatial Planning and Land-Use Management Act, a uniform system of spatial planning and land use management throughout South Africa is provided for municipalities to apply in relation to other policies such as the trading license. In traditional councils recognised by the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act 2003, municipal business licensing policies may outline the manner and extent of participation by traditional leadership. This participation and consultation should be provided for with due regard to the interests of minimising red tape for micro, small and medium enterprises. The department also hopes the streamlining of licensing procedures will lead to reduced administrative burden and time required for businesses to obtain licenses, renewals or permits. In addition, through licenses to trade, entities can execute their business ventures, create jobs and revenue for the economy and pursue growth and sustainability.
TimesLIVE
30-06-2025
- Business
- TimesLIVE
Woolworths scales up support to empower SA entrepreneurs
In celebration of Youth Month, Woolworths' Inclusive Justice Initiative has proudly announced that its successful Youth Makers competition will return for a second season. This innovative contest invites dynamic young entrepreneurs aged 18-35 to apply for a tailor-made empowerment programme that will give them an opportunity to take their enterprises to the next level. Winners will receive once-in-a-lifetime mentorship from Woolies experts, bespoke leadership and retail guidance, and a whopping R125,000 in grant funding to help each business scale and succeed in the retail world. The programme is designed to lay strong foundations for retail success and long-term business sustainability. This exciting announcement comes shortly after the launch of the Woolworths Inclusive Justice Institute, a major milestone for the business and a powerful new initiative. The institute will unlock market access opportunities, enable inclusion, and address inequality through support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and impactful community programmes that address food security and contribute to quality basic education. 'Our purpose as a business has always been to add quality to life — not only for our customers but also in the communities where we operate,' said Woolworths Group CEO Roy Bagattini. 'The launch of the Inclusive Justice Institute aligns with our vision to be one of the world's most responsible retailers. It underscores our deep commitment to enabling meaningful social justice outcomes in SA.' The launch of the Inclusive Justice Institute aligns with our vision to be one of the world's most responsible retailers. It underscores our deep commitment to enabling meaningful social justice outcomes in SA Woolworths Group CEO Roy Bagattini As part of the institute's establishment, Woolworths has doubled its MSME fund to R200m. In the spirit of collaboration for inclusive growth, Land and Agricultural Development Bank of SA (Land Bank) has committed an additional R100m in funding for emerging farmers — bringing the total funding to R300m. The institute is home to two dedicated nonprofit companies, the Enterprise Inclusive Justice Institute (EIJI) and the Community Inclusive Justice Institute (CIJI). The EIJI will drive MSME development and economic inclusion and play a key role in nurturing MSMEs into sustainable businesses. The CIJI will focus on strengthening Woolworths' social impact programmes aimed at addressing food security, quality basic education, and community resilience — all crucial pillars of economic inclusion and long-term impact. Speaking at the launch event, minister of small business development Stella Ndabeni praised the initiative: 'The Woolworths Inclusive Justice Institute points us in the right direction. It's a practical demonstration of how a leading retailer can empower small enterprises. A vision like this resonates with everything we stand for — and Woolworths has a partner in us.' Zinzi Mgolodela, Woolworths director of Corporate Social Justice, highlighted how the institute builds on the retailer's long-standing socioeconomic development work. 'Our support for MSMEs has stimulated economic growth by helping beneficiaries expand and create employment. Through partnerships with NGOs, we've helped communities grow food and achieve self-sufficiency, while our education programmes continue to uplift under-resourced schools, promote child safety, and empower young learners to reach their potential.' Mgolodela added: 'The youth hold the key to SA's future, and we're proud to be investing in their potential. Empowering young entrepreneurs not only changes individual lives — it transforms communities and strengthens the broader economy.'
IOL News
27-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Why business incubations often falter
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni addresses the Joint Neeve Centre media briefing on Spaza Shop and Food Outlet registration deadline. Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises contribute 34% to the GDP and 60% to employment, according to the Small Enterprise Development Agency, says the writer. Image: GCIS MICRO-, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) Day is observed on 27 June to recognise the important role of MSMEs in economic growth and development. They represent 90% of businesses globally, while their contribution to employment is more than 50% and 40% to GDP according to the World Bank. In South Africa, MSMEs' contributions to GDP and employment are 34% and 60% respectively, according to the Small Enterprise Development Agency. Given their substantial economic role, supporting MSMEs is a strategic public investment that can unlock inclusive and sustainable growth and development. Since 1995, the South African government has implemented various policy measures to support the development and promotion of small businesses. Over time, these mechanisms have become more targeted and streamlined to enhance the impact and accessibility of support. Current support instruments include mentorship and coaching, training programmes, access to finance (through loans or grants), general business advisory services, market and trade facilitation, and business incubation and acceleration programmes. Business incubation, in particular, has gained prominence in both policy and academic discourse for its potential to accelerate the growth, innovation, and sustainability of MSMEs in South Africa. Several success factors for business incubation have been identified, including access to appropriate technology and facilities, stringent selection criteria, the quality of entrepreneurs, stakeholder support, supportive policy frameworks, competent and motivated management, and sustainable financial support. However, recent research highlights persistent performance disparities among South African business incubators. Many incubators fall short when benchmarked against best practices, pointing to ongoing challenges in service quality and effectiveness. Others struggle to survive due to chronic financial constraints. This has led to a pattern of decoupling, where organisational activities become disconnected from core developmental goals, often prioritising legitimacy over impact. Furthermore, research reveals that incubators frequently suffer from limited resources, obsolete and dated machinery and technology, as well as a shortage of skilled practitioners, including gaps in critical areas such as marketing strategy. Compounding these issues, many incubatees admitted into programmes do not meet established selection criteria, indicating systemic weaknesses in the selection process. Business incubation, as a specialised support mechanism for small business development, is clearly not delivering on its potential and not being used for its purpose. It serves clients that should not be selected for incubation; it is not well-resourced; business development skills are deficient; and strategic competence is lacking. To address these shortcomings, we need to shift our focus from providing basic support to cultivating higher-order capabilities that equip incubatees for long-term adaptability, innovation, and competitiveness. Improving the chances of small business success depends not just on acquiring basic resources, but also on developing higher-order capabilities that enable adaptability, innovation, and strategic renewal. Studies have shown that firms with dynamic capabilities, such as marketing agility and integrated management approaches, tend to proactively respond to change, leveraging technology and organisational learning to build complex systems that drive sustained performance. Unlike threshold-level resources that support daily operations and survival, higher-order resources empower firms to sense opportunities, seize them effectively, and transform continuously for long-term competitive advantage and sustainability. Additionally, in the small business context, innovation capability rests with the owner as they are the primary decision makers. Their personal, behavioural and environmental contexts are key aspects to be considered, and they should therefore be the unit of analysis when developing small businesses. To meaningfully enhance the role of MSMEs in South Africa, three strategic shifts are required with specific reference to business incubation: collaboration between academia, industry, and government for effective knowledge transfer and spillover towards sustainable development, innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth; utilising business incubation as a specialised MSME development mechanism; and moving from a survival mindset to one of higher-order capabilities— the ability to respond strategically to change or the ability to recognise, assimilate, and apply new knowledge. These capabilities are what allow MSMEs to innovate, compete, and thrive sustainably—not just survive from grant to grant. As scholars have noted, it is not just resources but the ability to leverage them strategically that enables long-term success. In the context of MSME development, the entrepreneur is the engine of innovation. Their individual characteristics, context, and decision-making approaches matter deeply. As such, we must build ecosystems that invest in the entrepreneur's capacity, not just their business infrastructure. If we are serious about building a more inclusive and resilient economy, then enabling MSMEs with the right capabilities and support is not optional—it is essential. As we celebrate MSMEs Day, let us also reflect on business incubation—a key mechanism for developing and promoting small businesses in South Africa and around the world. Solomon is a lecturer in the Department of Business Management at Stellenbosch University.
