On this page you will find statements and op-eds distributed by SBI; coverage the Institute receives and news about and for SMEs. While we do not necessarily endorse political parties, nor the findings of other research institutions, our research and advocacy positions are increasingly highlighted by influential commentators. We post these articles or interviews here for your review.

Time to Pay Up: Government unveils toughest crackdown on late payments in over 25 years

Time to Pay Up: Government unveils toughest crackdown on late payments in over 25 years Small businesses to be backed by new, stronger measures to tackle late payments. UK is backing small businesses with the toughest laws on late payments in the G7 Sweeping new...

Untangling the Knot: Navigating South Africa’s SMME Regulatory Landscape in 2026

Untangling the Knot: Navigating South Africa’s SMME Regulatory Landscape in 2026 Written by: Christo Owen van der Rheede For a small business owner in South Africa, the dream of entrepreneurship often collides with a sobering reality: a "paperwork ceiling" known as...

About FASA 2026 Conference and EXPO

About FASA 2026 Conference and EXPO South Africa is reaching a critical economic juncture. While franchising currently contributes a significant 15% to our GDP, FASA's 2026 Conference and EXPO focused on the transformative shift to 20%. The event served as a strategic...

SBI Podcast, episode two on B20 – In conversation with Dr Anthony Costa

SBI Podcast series episode two on B20- In conversation with, Dr Anthony CostaIn Episode 2 from the Small Business Institute's B20 podcast series, we sit down with Dr. Anthony Costa, a key figure at the heart of B20 South Africa’s preparations. Dr. Costa shares an...

SBI BPL SME Indaba left Small Business owners inspired!

THE SBI BPL SME INDABA – AN EVENT THAT EMPOWERED AND INSPIRED! The SBI BPL SME Indaba “Finance as a growth enabler” were held on 26 August 2025 at Bryanston Country Club. It was nothing short of a powerhouse day for South Africa’s small business segment. Co-hosted...

SBI BPL SME Indaba: “Finance As a Growth Enabler” – Tues, 26 August 2025

Attention Small Business Owners, SME Champions, and Everyone Driving Growth in the SME Ecosystem! The Small Business Institute (SBI) and Business Partners Limited are excited to invite you formally to join us at the next SME Indaba -- a must-attend event focusing on:...

SUBMISSION BY THE SMALL BUSINESS INSTITUTE ON THE DRAFT TRANSFORMATION FUND CONCEPT PAPER

SUBMISSION BY THE SMALL BUSINESS INSTITUTE ON THE DRAFT TRANSFORMATION FUND CONCEPT PAPER To: the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (“dtic”)By email: transformationfund@thedtic.gov.za May 28 2025 Introduction and background Earlier this year, government,...

SBI Podcast, Episode one on B20 – In conversation with BUSA CEO Khulekani Mathe

Get ready for an insightful episode where we unpack everything you need to know about the B20 with BUSA CEO, Khulekani Mathe —what it is, how it differs from the G20, and why it matters for business in South Africa and beyond. We’ll break down the unique role of...

SBI SME Indaba – Tuesday 20 May 2025 – “Innovation amidst compliance burden – unlocking the power of new technology.”

Attention Small Business owners, Business Chamber organisations and all role players in the SME enablement ecosystem! You are invited to the Next SBI SME Indaba being hosted on Tuesday 20 May 2025. Seats are limited, make sure to register to avoid disappointment!...