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Starting a small business in South Africa begins with a simple idea and a few honest numbers. Ask what people around you need and cannot easily get. A spaza shop, a baking stall, a phone repair table or a tutoring service can all begin small.
Write down what it will cost to start, and what you must charge to make a profit. Keep your own money and the business money apart from day one.
Know your numbers before you spend your first rand. A small, steady business beats a big, shaky one. Kagiso Setlhare, Accounting TutorOur free course, Starting a Small Business in South Africa, covers registration, simple bookkeeping and finding your first customers. Join us at Du Toitspan Road, Kimberley.
Learn the basics first
Before you rent a shop or buy stock, learn how a business works. Understand costs, prices and profit. Find out how to register your business and what tax you may need to pay. A few evenings of learning can save you from expensive mistakes later.
Find your first customers
Start with people you know. Ask neighbours, family and church groups what they would buy. Use WhatsApp to share photos and prices. Then ask each happy customer to tell one friend. Our Excel Skills for the Workplace course also shows you how to track sales neatly.
Kagiso Setlhare
I found this very helpful. The tips are clear and easy to follow, and my daughter is already using them for homework.
Anika Botha
Thank you for this article. Our son writes matric this year and these ideas helped us plan the term. Sharing it with other parents.
Nomvula Khumalo
Thank you for your kind words. We are glad the tips helped you and your family. Come and see us at the centre.
Riaan Pillay
Good advice from people who clearly know learners. The part about studying on a small budget was very useful for us in Galeshewe. Well done, Leerkring.