Entrepreneurship in South Africa: looking beyond funding

Abstract

Purpose

In the past years, several initiatives were implemented in South Africa to encourage entrepreneurship. In this paper, we try to answer the question: what services South African entrepreneurs want? In order to do so, the services offered by Enablis, a Canadian NGO whose purpose is to encourage entrepreneurship in South Africa are analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative case study approach, this paper presents the point of view of entrepreneurs in South Africa.

Findings

Surprisingly, we found that entrepreneurs want first and foremost networking opportunities. Human capital, expressed through training and developing entrepreneurs' skills is another key issue. Finally, access to financing is only the third priority for South African entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This research allowed the identification of the needs of entrepreneurs and provides an insight into entrepreneurship in South Africa.

Citation

Brière, S., Tremblay, M. and Daou, A. (2014), "Entrepreneurship in South Africa: looking beyond funding", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 28 No. 2, pp. 17-19. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-08-2013-0052