Free business support in South Africa
You do not have to work it all out alone. South Africa has agencies, incubators and networks whose job is to help small businesses start and grow, and much of their help is free. Here is where to go, and how to get the most from it.
SEDFA (formerly SEDA and sefa)
The Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) brought together SEDA, which offered business development support, and sefa, which offered small business finance. It supports small businesses with advice, training, mentoring and access to finance, through offices across the country.
The NYDA, for young entrepreneurs
The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) supports South Africans aged 18 to 35 with business training, mentorship and, for qualifying businesses, grant funding. If you are in that age group, start here.
Incubators and enterprise development
Business incubators offer workspace, mentoring and access to networks, often focused on a sector such as tech, agriculture or manufacturing. Many large companies also run enterprise and supplier development programmes that train, mentor and sometimes buy from small suppliers.
Chambers and networks
Local chambers of business and industry associations connect you with other owners, customers and suppliers. Many of the best opportunities come from the people you meet, which is also why verified businesses on BizBoost can connect, post subcontract work and find suppliers in one place.
Get the most out of support
- Have your basics ready: registration, tax compliance and simple financial records.
- Know what you need: training, a mentor, a market or finance.
- Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to "guarantee" a grant or tender.
For grants and loans specifically, see business funding in South Africa.
Common questions
Where can I get free help to start a business in South Africa?
SEDFA (which brought together SEDA and sefa), the NYDA for people aged 18 to 35, business incubators, enterprise development programmes run by large companies, and local chambers of business.
What does the NYDA offer entrepreneurs?
Business training, mentorship and, for qualifying businesses owned by South Africans aged 18 to 35, grant funding.
Should I pay someone to get me a grant?
Be very careful. Legitimate agencies do not require you to pay a middleman, and anyone who "guarantees" a grant or tender for a fee is a warning sign.