Small businesses are more than just economic contributors. They are the pulse of communities. Creating jobs, sparking innovation and fuelling the aspirations of individuals who see potential where others see limitations.
FNB understands that when small businesses grow, so do the people and communities around them. That's why we have invested in their success through financial support, mentorship, training and solutions designed to make them unstoppable.
"With the high unemployment rate in South Africa, small businesses are contributing towards job creation", says Palesa Moeletsi, Business Development Support Manager at FNB. "We are invested in developing small businesses, giving them the tools to expand their operations and grow", she continues.
The thriving community economy
For entrepreneurs like Ted Mathabela, owner of Glass Xap Automotive, running a business is a chance for him to pass on skills and create opportunities. "I take people in to teach them how to work using their hands, helping me grow my business while helping them acquire skills too", he shares.
With support from FNB through his financial advisor, he has the financial knowledge and tools to take his business to the next level. "The Speedpoint® helped us grow because we can now offer our clients other payment options", he adds.
Godfrey Malope, owner of Gilberto's Grills and Beverages, shares similar sentiments. For him, entrepreneurship was a calling. "I saw a need to follow my passion in the food sector", he says. But to grow, passion requires financial savviness and the right support. Since banking with FNB, he's seen immense changes in his business and community. "With help from FNB, we are growing the community through employment".
Smarter solutions built for business success
FNB goes beyond offering traditional banking services. The FNB Community Economy team works closely with entrepreneurs, taking insights directly from the ground to understand the realities of running a small business in South Africa and refining and developing better solutions.
"We need to constantly ensure that the products and services we provide to small businesses can accommodate the nuances of the community", explains José Gomes, FNB Business Development Head: Community Economy.
With financial literacy being one of the biggest challenges small businesses face, FNB is working to change that. "We try to educate business owners and entrepreneurs so that they can grow and pass down this knowledge to other members of the community", José adds.
Transforming communities with the entrepreneurial spirit
South Africa's small business sector is full of resilience, strength and innovation. Whether it's a local auto repairer creating employment, a restaurant serving up passion on a plate, or a township business bringing new ideas to life, these businesses are shaping the future.
"The entrepreneurs we support and their commitment drive us to ensure we can contribute to a revolution of small businesses and the township economy", Palesa emphasises.
With over 80 businesses already branded in our latest initiative, we are backing businesses' power to change the world around them.
Because with the right help, communities can become unstoppable.
