Building female owned businesses is critical to economic and social development in South Africa

Women are underestimated powerhouses of an economy. This is not a fact that is relevant only to South Africa, but it is a global phenomenon. Mike Anderson, CEO and founder of the National Small Business Chamber (NSBC), says that South Africa needs to not only build entrepreneurship, but to encourage and develop female business owners. Speaking just ahead of the Small Business Friday (SBF) kick-off on 2 September 2016, Anderson says that the drive is not just to develop women from an economic perspective, but also about the bigger picture of reshaping the modern-day global economy. 'Forbes says that what’s good for women is good for the economy and I think this is truer for South Africa than anywhere else right now. While we have many rural women who are already trying to be sustainable, we need to focus on developing our formal sector and boost female entrepreneurship and small business development,' says Anderson.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamAugust 10, 20160Comments

Small Business Friday celebrates five years

South Africa’s biggest ‘Small Business Day of the Year’ turns five on 02 September 2016. The National Small Business Chamber (NSBC) and title sponsor, Nedbank, say that the launch of the Small Business Friday (SBF) campaign in 2012 was in an effort to draw attention to the important role entrepreneurship plays within the local economy and the need to grow the sector. Mike Anderson, NSBC Founder and CEO, says that the hope of SBF is to encourage the South African population to engage every Friday. 'By making a conscious decision to support a small business on a Friday, consumers are demonstrating a powerful commitment to developing the local economy. The official launch date will coincide with the arrival of Spring. Generally a ‘feel good’ time of year, we are aiming to infuse positive energy into the SME sector and publicly call all in South Africa to action in support of small businesses across the nation.'

ByNSBC Editorial TeamAugust 2, 20160Comments

Small Business Friday

Celebrating Ariston Global – As they grow, we grow

In order for a small business to be truly successful they need to be on top of their finances, tax, HR, payroll and in-line with legislation. In most cases, however, entrepreneurs tend to be experts in their own fields but lacking in these fundamental areas. Where larger businesses have entire departments devoted to strategic planning, legislative compliance and financial analysis, small businesses lack this access and these invaluable resources. This week we celebrate a small business - Ariston Global - who is playing a pivotal role in the success of many SMMEs by bridging this gap.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamMay 27, 20160Comments

Small Business Friday

Celebrating Sweet Temptations Toffees – From home kitchen to household name

With Mother’s Day just a few days away we thought it fitting to celebrate a small business that found its origins in the heart of a home (the kitchen), with a mother simply wanting to delight her children with home-made sweet treats. Sweet Temptations Toffees is the brainchild of Anita Labuschagne, a mom and budding entrepreneur based in Somerset West. Her award winning small business specialises in handmade gourmet toffees and luxurious nougats. With their use of top quality ingredients and their striking, beautifully hand-wrapped packaging, Sweet Temptations Toffees has become a recognisable household brand throughout South Africa.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamMay 6, 20161Comment

Initiatives & Movements

Giving small business the step up it needs

The first Friday of Spring every year is Small Business Friday™, the day consumers pledge to support small businesses across the country, The National Small Business Chamber (NSBC), in association with Nedbank recognises the bravery and fortitude of these businesses, knowing that starting your own business is equal parts fear and elation.

ByMike Anderson: NSBC Founder & CEONovember 12, 20154Comments