Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) - Situational Analysis of the SMME Sector in South Africa
In August 2011, Mthente was commissioned by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) to carry out a situational analysis of the SMME Sector in South Africa. The analysis was inspired by the Diagnostic Overview of the country released by the National Planning Commission in June 2011, which identified a number of notable challenges facing South Africa. SEDA believes that SMMEs can play an important role in mitigating some of these challenges and thus required a scientific view of the state of the SMME sector.
Mthente used the following methodology to carry out the analysis:
- Desktop research, including:
- A review of existing documentation outlining the policy and strategy framework for SMME development in the country;
- An analysis of information and statistics outlining the extent and performance of the SMME sector in South Africa;
- A review and analysis of secondary sources documenting the state of entrepreneurship and the quality and effectiveness of existing support systems available to entrepreneurs and small businesses in the country.
- A stakeholder workshop with attendees representing a wide range of institutions and organisations with prominent interests and expertise in the SMME sector.
The output from this research process will provide important strategic input to support SEDA to deliver on its mandate and foster an entrepreneurial culture that brings previously disadvantaged individuals into mainstream economic activities in South Africa and creates sustainable employment through small business development.