ACCESS TO FINANCE REPORT

SMMEs are the backbone of the country's economy, providing the majority of job opportunities and contributing significantly to the GDP. For South Africa to resolve its high rate of unemployment and to alleviate poverty, a sustainable and supportive environment needs to be created to facilitate small business survival and growth, and to ensure increased job creation. SMME funding is a critical component of this growth. Access to finance is one of the primary challenges for start-ups, micro, very small, small and medium businesses in the country, and one that needs urgent attention.