Starting a business

There are four main stages involved in bringing your project and maximize your chances of success. So you need to :

1. Define your project precisely
2. Draw up a detailed business plan
3. Putting together the financial package (finding the necessary financing)
4. Cover all legal aspects (registrations, shareholder agreements, etc.)

Following these initial steps, you'll need to set up operations and ensure that the first sales materialize. A multitude of elements and events unforeseen events will always arise, and quick decisions will be needed.

There are, of course, winning recipes that savvy entrepreneurs use time and time again, and here's one of them. Pay constant attention to your cash. So, from the outset, rent rather than buy equipment or a building. Avoid large purchases and set aside as much money as possible for working capital. The availability of cash could open up opportunities you hadn't anticipated. If you buy equipment, do so with specific financing, and never use your cash or line of credit to do so.

We strongly encourage you to get training and support for your business start-up. In addition, follow the example of experienced entrepreneurs and surround yourself with professionals to whom you can turn for advice. With financing from the SADC, our experts will also be happy to support you as an entrepreneur.

See the list of financial products on the right. They're sure to meet your financing needs. Don't hesitate to apply for financing from SADC. We'll help you think through your project and make it a reality.