While the South African economy is subdued, there are many small and medium (SME) businesses working tirelessly to succeed, grow and positively impact the struggling business landscape. In an effort to motivate and grow the SME sector, the National Small Business Chamber (NSBC), in association with World Famous Events, has announced South Africa’s 2018 small business and entrepreneur champions. With eight main categories, the awards, now in its tenth year, serve to not only acknowledge the respective businesses, but to also assist them to prosper even more. Mike Anderson, Founder and CEO of the NSBC says that the entrants this year proved that there are business opportunities within different sectors: “You just need to have an idea and the passion to make it a reality. All our winners today are fantastic examples of people who spotted an opportunity, believed in their skills and made it into a viable business.” He says that self-belief, above all else is the one attribute that sets winners apart. The NSBC is fortunate enough to work with over 127 000 SMEs and through its engagements has pinpointed what it takes to keep the business doors open. This year’s awards are sponsored by Fedex, ABSA, Telkom and Microsoft. All these brands are invested in the support and growth of SMEs, with each sponsor showing unwavering commitment to the growth and success of these important small businesses.