South Africa’s small businesses are at the heart of economic growth, with support from the Department of Small Business Development helping SMMEs access funding, mentorship, and new markets. These initiatives have created thousands of jobs while expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs. Yet challenges around finance, compliance, and sustainability remain. Industry leaders including Lungani Nene- founded Spot-On Fire Controls, Qinisile Delwa -Deputy Director-General (DDG): Enterprise Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at South Africa's Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), and Jedd Harris is the Chief Strategy Officer at Sourcefin unpack the sector’s progress, challenges, and future growth.