Despite KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN’s) strategic advantages as a trade hub, many of the province’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are unable to participate in global markets. Obstacles such as complex export regulations, limited access to funding, and a lack of international trade experience continue to stifle SME growth beyond South Africa’s borders.

In response, Standard Bank Business & Commercial Banking, in partnership with the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI), today launched the Export Readiness Programme. The initiative opens for applications today, 30 June 2025 and closes Wednesday, 9 July 2025, and will support 20 high-potential KZN-based SMEs with hands-on training, access to markets, and export compliance support.

The programme is built on Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) platform, which combines tailored funding, capacity-building, and strategic market access. Through this initiative, selected SMEs will receive:

• Export compliance and certification training
• Access to funding tools and trade finance solutions
• Connection to new markets through Standard Bank’s African presence and SACCI’s trade networks

“SMEs in KZN are ambitious and capable but they need the right ecosystem to grow internationally,” says Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise and Supplier Development at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa. “This programme delivers that by offering practical tools and strategic partnerships to help businesses start, manage and grow sustainably beyond, and beyond borders.”

The Standard Bank ESD programme supports black-owned SMEs to drive inclusive growth and transformation. It is delivering the KZN Export Readiness Programme in partnership with SACCI, South Africa’s largest and most established business chamber. SACCI represents enterprises across all sectors and regions. Its mandate includes policy advocacy, investment promotion, and enterprise development, making it a critical ally in supporting SME competitiveness.

“South Africa’s economic future depends on unlocking the potential of our SMEs,” says Alan Mukoki, CEO of SACCI. “This partnership with Standard Bank is a pipeline to global markets for KZN businesses that are ready to take the next step.”

With two major ports, strong manufacturing and agricultural sectors, and growing intra-Africa trade corridors, KZN is ideally positioned to lead SME-driven export growth. The Export Readiness Programme leverages this advantage, equipping businesses with the skills, confidence, and compliance readiness to succeed globally.

Programme Snapshot:

Applications Open: 30 June 2025

Applications Deadline: 09 July 2025

Programme Launch: 17 July 2025

Target Participants: 20 SMEs in KZN

Interested KZN SMEs can apply on or before the closing date of Wednesday, 9 July 2025 by visiting by this: [LINK].