STANDARD BANK ENTERPRISE AND SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT

Applications Close 10 July 2026
Programme Launches 20 July 2026

Your Passport to Global Growth

Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development, in partnership with DHL, invites ambitious South African SMEs to apply for the Standard Bank Export Readiness Programme.


This programme is designed for growth-minded South African SMEs that are already exporting or are ready to begin their export journey and want structured support to strengthen their readiness for international trade.


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Check Eligibility

Administered by SMTAX as appointed Business Development Service Provider for Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development programmes onboarding and compliance. Applications are subject to eligibility screening and final cohort selection.

Programme Overview

What you gain

This practical development programme is designed to help selected businesses strengthen their export capability, build confidence for international growth, and prepare for success in new markets through expert-led support, relevant tools, and market-focused guidance.

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Export Readiness

Gain practical guidance on export readiness, processes, regulations, and compliance requirements.

Export Opportunity

Get practical support on market research, logistics, and market entry to pursue export opportunities.

Market Access

Connect with local and global opportunities that can open new doors for your business.

Export Finance Solutions

Gain practical insights into export finance and tools to support your next step.

​​​Programme Eligibility

Check whether your business is ready to apply.

51% or more Black-owned with a valid BBBEE affidavit
Your annual turnover is between R1 million and below R50 million
Your business has a minimum operational history of 24 months
The majority shareholder is a South African citizen and is involved full-time in the business
Your business is based in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, or Western Cape
Your are not currently in another Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development programme
You have access to an electronic device, reliable internet connectivity, and basic computer literacy for online learning.

Documents required

Valid B-BBEE affidavit or certificate

CIPC certificate (Cor14.3)

Director ID copies

Shareholder ID copies (if different to directors)

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Programme Journey

A clear path from application to cohort selection.

Every application follows a structured review process: submit your details, complete screening, move through pre-approval where eligible, and await final cohort selection.

Apply

Submit business, ownership, and contact details.

Screening

Eligibility and document checks are completed.

Pre-approval

Eligible applications move into review.

Selection

The final cohort is selected from pre-approved applicants.

Onboarding

Selected SMEs begin onboarding and programme milestones.

Frequently Asked Questions

The application should be completed by a director with shareholding in the business.

Qualifying SMEs operating in Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal or Western Cape that meet the ownership, turnover, BBBEE, and document-readiness requirements.

Yes, provided the business is export-ready and can demonstrate growth potential.

No, programme application and participation is free of charge.

You may still submitting your application, then work to collate all of the required documents. You must submit the requested documentation before the closing date of applications to be considered for the programme. No applications will be accepted after the closing date.

You will receive an acknowledgement of your application straight after you submit your application, and we will then send you an additional request for information. Once we receive all of the requested documentation from you, we will review and finalise your application and send you an outcome after the closing date of applications.

Applications will be reviewed against the programme eligibility requirements and overall alignment to the programme objectives. Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection, as places are limited and final cohort selection will depend on the quality of applications and available space.

Absolutely yes! The programme is open to any qualifying businesses regardless of where they are banked.

Only businesses that meet the programme requirements will be considered.

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Take the next step towards international growth

If your business is ready to expand beyond local borders, this programme can help you build the knowledge, confidence, and readiness needed to pursue export opportunities more effectively.


Apply now to be considered for the Standard Bank Export Readiness Programme.

Prepare your documents, review the eligibility criteria carefully, and submit your application before the closing date.

Questions?
Email: support@smtax.co.za
Call: 021 201 1398