Across Africa, small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) play a central role in driving economic growth, innovation and job creation. In South Africa, the SMME sector continues to shoulder significant responsibility for expanding economic participation and creating employment opportunities.

Nedbank’s Pitch & Polish, a long‑running entrepreneurial development programme powered by business incubator Raizcorp, has over the past 15 seasons supported entrepreneurs in refining their strategy, strengthening their business systems and building more resilient enterprises. The programme focuses on developing practical business skills, sharpening business models and assisting entrepreneurs to present their ideas more effectively to potential investors.

Thami Ngubeni spoke to Monique Chinnah, Senior Manager at Nedbank.