Funding goes social in this issue as we profile person-to-person lending start-up Rainfin. Founded by technology and financial entrepreneurs Sean Emery and Hannes van der Merwe, the company aims to help people bypass the banks by linking groups who have cash to invest with people and even small businesses who want to borrow money. Lending clubs already have a strong foothold in this country in their offline form – through stokvels. It’ll be interesting to see how this concept evolves in the online space.
From a funding start-up to an organisation that pools the funds of companies looking to gain enterprise development points to help support entrepreneurs during the start-up phase and through their difficult first years. The Hope Factory does far more than offer the hope of starting a business, it commits to the entrepreneurs on the programme and mentors and guides them to a point of sustainability.
For high-growth ventures, the announcement that FNB has partnered with angel investment company AngelHub will certainly spark renewed interest in this funding model. CEO Brett Commaille predicts thatSouth Africawill follow the trend in other emerging markets, where angel investment has gained broader recognition as an alternative investment class. He also hopes that government will come on board at some stage to incentivise investors looking to support businesses through their high-risk early years.
From funding to food – this issue has plenty to snack on. Our Annual Food Feature takes a look at trends in the quick-service restaurant sector, turns the spotlight on successful restaurateurs Louise and George Jardine – who have plenty of advice for start-ups looking to follow in their footsteps – and also highlights a broad range of franchise opportunities for would-be business owners.
Give-aways this issue:
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Business Books
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Free ticket to BOFE expo
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Remote IT support valued up to R50 000
Buy your copy in stores countrywide or subscribe today. Digital edition also available on www.mysubs.co.za/Your-Business-Magazine.
Happy reading!
ON THE COVER
Small vs. Big
You’re intimidated by your bigger competitors’advertising campaigns, and you don’t have much of a marketing budget. How can you compete?
Change the rules of the game
Before you rush into your sales spiel, decide if your prospect is right for your business…
Cover Story: St Elmo’s
Twenty five years on, St Elmo’s still prides itself on providing food lovers with authentic woodfired pizzas of outstanding quality and superb service.
Selling your business
There will come a point when you’re ready to move on from your current business. Take the time – and money – to prepare your business for sale.
HOW TO…
Approach an angel investor
Do your homework, pitch right, and negotiate…
Improve your productivity
Focus on activities that generate revenue.
Fly the family flag
Turn your family’s unique strengths into a sustainable competitive advantage.
Pull visitors to your website
How do you bring in new qualified traffic?
FEATURES
Inspired by entrepreneurs
Face-to-face with the challenges of launching.
This start-up aims to rain on banking’s parade
A new company is bringing social lending and borrowing toSouth Africa…
Steps to a compelling call to action
Convert your flyer, advert or website into actual sales.
Meet deadlines every time
Tips to stay on track and on time.
The basics of estate planning
It’s essential for all business owners to tally their assets and liabilities.
Staff without stress
Hire right from the start as your human capital sets you apart from your competitors.
The pitfalls of hiring friends or family
Should you hire your best friend, mom, dad or Uncle Jo?
The entrepreneur’s guide to risk management
Identify all the risks facing your business at an early stage.
ANNUAL FOOD FRANCHISE FEATURE
What i wish i’d known
Valuable lessons learnt in starting and growing a restaurant business.
What is trending in food?
Rodger George, Director Deloitte Consulting and SA Consumer Business Leader, answers your food questions.
Buying an existing franchise
Tips to consider…
Food franchises on offer
Hungry prospective franchisees have some great opportunities to choose from in this industry.
SPECIAL FOCUS
Business and Franchise opportunities under R250K
You don’t have to break the bank to buy a license, agency or franchise. Buy this 8issue for some of these opportunities
