STANDARD BANK ENTERPRISE AND SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT

Applications Closed 05 June 2026
Programme Launches 15 July 2026

Unlock your next level of growth.

Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development is proud to announce the KwaZulu-Natal Business Development Programme, a dedicated enterprise development initiative aimed at supporting small businesses in and around Durban, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

 

This programme is designed for entrepreneurs who are committed to growing sustainable, competitive businesses and are ready to take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey.



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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

A practical growth programme for ambitious Durban entrepreneurs ready to build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

Gain blended learning, mentorship, networking, and support to improve market and funding readiness.

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Business Readiness

Gain practical business skills and access to a state-of-the-art innovation hub.

Mentorship Opportunity

Build confidence, clarity, with one-on-one mentorship & expert coaching.

Market Access

Build valuable connections and access market opportunities.

Funding Readiness

Build funding readiness and unlock funding opportunities.


​​Programme Eligibility

Check whether your business is ready to apply.

The programme is intended for SMEs that meet the location, ownership, turnover, BBBEE, and document-readiness requirements set out for the 2026 intake.

Before you apply
    51% or more Black-owned with a valid BBBEE affidavit
    Your annual turnover is between R50,000 and below R50 million
    Your business has a minimum operational history of 12 months
    The majority shareholder is a South African citizen and is involved full-time in the business
    Your business is based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, or surrounding areas within reasonable reach of Durban
    You 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 you will need

    • Valid B-BBEE affidavit or certificate
    • CIPC certificate (Cor14.3)
    • Director ID copies
    • Shareholder ID copies (if different to directors)

    Apply Now

    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 and around Durban, KZN, that meet the ownership, turnover, BBBEE, and document-readiness requirements.

    No, programme application and participation is free of charge.

    The programme will be delivered through a blended model, consisting of in‑person sessions in Durban at the participant’s own travel cost, and online learning interventions.

    The KwaZulu-Natal Business Development Programme will be delivered through a blended model that combines in-person sessions in Durban with online learning interventions. This approach is designed to give participants the benefit of face-to-face engagement while also offering the flexibility of digital learning.

    The programme launches on 14 July 2026. Please note that participants are responsible for their own travel costs to in-person sessions in Durban.

    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 within 24 hours. 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.

    ​​Apply Now

    If you are ready to strengthen your business capabilities, expand your network, and position your business for long-term success, this programme is for you.
    Do not miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and unlock new possibilities for your business through the Standard Bank KwaZulu-Natal Business Development 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