Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners received valuable guidance during a business dialogue hosted by Regenesys School of Public Management in partnership with the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), aimed at empowering township enterprises and encouraging the formalisation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
The engagement focused on the importance of registering businesses, particularly spaza shops, as government continues its drive to strengthen township economies through formalisation, improved compliance and access to financial support.
Residents who attended the session were encouraged to turn their business ideas into legally registered enterprises, with officials explaining that formal registration opens the door to funding opportunities, training, mentorship and broader economic support. Government’s Spaza Shop Support Fund offers qualifying South African-owned township and rural spaza shops a support package that includes a stock grant of up to R40,000, business support and additional funding for infrastructure and equipment, depending on eligibility and compliance requirements.
City of Johannesburg officials also outlined the legal processes involved in opening and operating a spaza shop. These include meeting food health and safety standards, obtaining the necessary municipal approvals and complying with relevant by-laws before a business can begin trading. Compliance with these requirements not only protects consumers but also allows businesses to qualify for government support programmes.
A City of Johannesburg representative stressed that formalisation is about creating sustainable businesses that contribute to local economic growth.
“We want to see township entrepreneurs succeed. Registering your business is more than just meeting legal requirements – it gives you access to funding, training, business opportunities and the support needed to build a sustainable enterprise. We encourage every aspiring business owner to follow the correct processes and take advantage of the assistance available,” the CoJ representative said.
The dialogue also highlighted government’s broader vision of ensuring that township-owned businesses become competitive, compliant and capable of creating employment within their communities. Organisers urged residents who are planning to start a business to seek guidance early, register their enterprises and make use of the various support programmes available through government and its partners.
