Financial excellence delivers tangible results for SMMEs

A unique and targeted approach:

What sets this programme apart is the focus in offering financial expertise to directly support black-owned, youth-led, and women-owned businesses. The results speak volume with 100% of beneficiaries were Black-owned enterprises, 32% were Youth-owned, and 63% were Women-owned. This inclusive approach ensured that the programme not only addressed Financial Excellence, but also contributed to broader socio-economic transformation. Additionally, three SAICA-associated Small and Medium Practices (SMPs) played a vital role in coaching and mentoring the SMMEs throughout the programme.

Practical support with measurable impact:

A standout feature of the programme was the Back-Office Accounting Support, taken up by 84% of participating SMMEs, most from the Eastern Limb. Of these, 63% received one year of free access to SAGE accounting software, a critical tool in modern financial management. The programme also delivered a series of targeted workshops, tailored to the specific needs of each region which included:

• Business Processes, Tax Compliance, Bookkeeping, Risk Management, and Governance in the Eastern Limb area
  
• Tax Compliance, Business-Personal Finance Boundaries, Growth Strategy, Business Margins, and Ethics in the Western Limb area.

Tangible business growth

The programme’s success is evident in the numbers:

• 10 of the SMMES (53%) of the SMMEs achieved an increase in turnover in their businesses.
  
• 7 of the SMMEs (37%) achieved an increase in net profit in their businesses.
  
• 20 new jobs were created by 6 SMMEs in the Eastern Limb region.

These outcomes reflect not just financial improvement, but sustainable business development and job creation.

Voices of success: Participants have shared glowing testimonials

• Lehlogonolo Rarau owner of GLADCON (PTY) LTD reported significant improvements in bookkeeping and financial systems, leading to better decision-making and confidence in financial planning.
  
• Masehlelele Gloria from MAGLORY'S TRADING highlighted enhanced financial management capabilities and a deeper understanding of sustainability and strategic financial planning.

A model for future development:

This Financial Excellence Programme is a blueprint for how corporate partnerships can drive real change in the SMME sector. By combining financial expertise, practical tools, and a commitment to transformation, SAICA ED have created a model that delivers measurable impact and long-term value.

The success stories and data-driven outcomes make a compelling case for scaling this initiative further. It shows how a focus on Financial Excellence, with even getting the basics of quality Back-Office support, can drive tangible business results and job creation.