Step 1: Map Out Your Idea
Define your business concept, who it's for, and what makes it different. Write down your vision, mission, and a one-line pitch.
Things to consider:
- What problem are you solving?
- Who is your ideal customer?
- What makes your solution unique?
- Can you explain your idea in one sentence?
Pro tips:
- Use a one-page business model canvas.
- Test your idea with friends, mentors, or potential customers.
- Refine your idea until it’s clear and compelling.
Step 2: Market Research
Research your industry, competitors, and target market. Use surveys, interviews, and online research to validate demand.
Things to consider:
- Who are your main competitors?
- How big is the market?
- What are the current trends?
- What do potential customers want?
Pro tips:
- Use Google Trends, Statista, and local reports.
- Ask 10+ real people for honest feedback.
- Look for gaps in what competitors offer.
Step 3: Secure Your Domain Name
Check if your business name is available as a .co.za domain and buy it before someone else does.
Things to consider:
- Is your domain short, memorable, and easy to spell?
- Does it match your business name?
- Are other key domains (.com, .net) available?
- Will you need email addresses for your team?
Pro tips:
- Register your domain as soon as you pick a name.
- Consider buying similar domains to protect your brand.
- Use your domain for a professional email address.
Step 4: Register Social Media Handles
Secure your business name on all major social platforms—even if you don't plan to use them right away.
Things to consider:
- Is your handle consistent across platforms?
- Which platforms do your customers use most?
- Have you checked for similar or confusing handles?
- Will you need a branded email for signups?
Pro tips:
- Register on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, and WhatsApp Business.
- Use a tool like Namechk to check availability everywhere.
- Keep your branding and bios consistent.
Step 5: Announce Your Idea
Share your idea with your network and start building an audience. Collect early supporters and feedback.
Things to consider:
- Who can help you spread the word?
- What’s your launch story?
- How will you collect email signups or interest?
- What’s your call to action?
Pro tips:
- Post on your personal and business social accounts.
- Create a simple landing page with a signup form.
- Ask for shares and referrals from friends and family.
Step 6: Write a Business Plan
Map out your business goals, strategies, financials, and how you'll operate. This is essential for funding and focus.
Things to consider:
- What is your vision and mission?
- What are your startup costs and income projections?
- What's your marketing and sales plan?
- How will you measure success?
Pro tips:
- Keep it simple but thorough.
- Use templates from SEDA or banks.
- Update your plan as you learn.
Step 7: Find Funding or Sponsorship
Secure the capital you need to launch and survive the early months. Explore all options—from savings to grants, loans, and sponsorship.
Things to consider:
- How much do you need to start and run for 6–12 months?
- Will you use personal savings, family/friends, or outside investors?
- Have you checked for government grants or microfinance?
- Can you pitch for sponsorship or crowdfunding?
Pro tips:
- Start lean—don't over-borrow.
- Microfinance and government grants are available for many sectors.
- Prepare a pitch deck for investors or sponsors.
Step 8: Build Your First Product or Service
Create a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) to test with real customers before scaling.
Things to consider:
- Can you start small and improve as you go?
- What's the simplest version you can launch?
- How will you get feedback and iterate?
Pro tips:
- Don't wait for perfection—launch, learn, improve.
- Use local suppliers and networks for cost savings.
- Document your process for future scaling.
Step 9: Launch Your Website
Build a simple, mobile-friendly website to showcase your business and collect leads or sales.
Things to consider:
- Does your website look good on mobile?
- Is your value proposition clear?
- Are your contact details and social links visible?
- Do you have a privacy policy and terms?
Pro tips:
- Use Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress for easy setup.
- Add Google Analytics to track visitors.
- Start with one page and expand as you grow.
Step 10: Launch Social Media Campaigns
Announce your launch, run your first campaign, and start building a following on your chosen platforms.
Things to consider:
- What’s your campaign goal (awareness, leads, sales)?
- Which platforms does your audience use?
- Do you have branded graphics and content?
- Who will engage with comments and messages?
Pro tips:
- Use Canva to design posts.
- Schedule posts with Buffer or Hootsuite.
- Respond quickly to comments and DMs.
Step 11: Get Your First Customer or Sale
Nothing matters until someone pays. Focus on making your first sale as soon as possible.
Things to consider:
- Who is most likely to buy first?
- What's your unique selling point?
- How will you reach your first customers (online, local, events)?
Pro tips:
- Start with your own network and referrals.
- Offer early-bird deals or free trials.
- Collect testimonials and feedback from your first customers.
Step 12: Register Your Business
Register your business with CIPC or BizPortal to get your registration number and legal documents.
Things to consider:
- What business structure suits you (sole prop, partnership, Pty Ltd)?
- Have you registered with CIPC and SARS?
- Do you need special industry licenses or municipal permits?
Pro tips:
- Use BizPortal for one-stop registration.
- Keep digital and hard copies of all documents.
- Consult an accountant for VAT/UIF/COID if hiring.
Step 13: Register for SARS Tax
Every business must register with SARS for income tax. If your turnover is over R1 million, you must also register for VAT. If you’ll have employees, register for PAYE, UIF, and SDL.
Things to consider:
- Do you understand your tax obligations and deadlines?
- Will you need VAT registration now or later?
- Are you keeping proper records for SARS audits?
- Do you have a reliable accountant or tax practitioner?
Pro tips:
- Register for eFiling early – it saves time and stress.
- VAT is only compulsory above R1m turnover, but voluntary registration can help with B2B clients.
- PAYE/UIF/SDL registration is required as soon as you hire staff.
Step 14: Open a Business Bank Account
Keep your business and personal finances separate. A business account is essential for credibility, compliance, and growth.
Things to consider:
- Do you have all required documents (CIPC, proof of address, tax number)?
- Which bank offers the best fees and online banking for your needs?
- Will you need a debit card, credit facility, or business savings?
- Do you want a bank with good support for startups?
Pro tips:
- Shop around – banks differ widely in fees and features.
- Some banks offer business startup packages with free months or extra benefits.
- You can open an account online with most major banks.
Step 15: Register for UIF & Compensation Fund
If you employ anyone, you must register for the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and the Compensation Fund (COID) for workplace injuries.
Things to consider:
- Are you employing anyone (even part-time or family)?
- Do you know how to calculate and pay UIF and COID contributions?
- Are you keeping employee records and contracts?
- Do you understand your legal obligations as an employer?
Pro tips:
- UIF and COID registration is quick online, but keep proof of registration.
- Late payments can lead to penalties.
- Use payroll software or a payroll provider to stay compliant.
Step 16: Apply for B-BBEE Certificate
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) status is vital for tenders and many clients. Small businesses (under R10m turnover) can get a free affidavit.
Things to consider:
- Will you be applying for government work or corporate contracts?
- Do you know your business’s B-BBEE level?
- Are you keeping records of ownership and turnover?
- Do you need a formal certificate or just an affidavit?
Pro tips:
- Most micro businesses only need to download and sign an affidavit.
- Keep your B-BBEE document up to date – it’s valid for 12 months.
- For larger businesses, use an accredited verification agency.
Step 17: Register with Industry Bodies
Some industries require registration with a regulatory or professional body (e.g., security, health, construction).
Things to consider:
- Does your sector require a licence or accreditation?
- Are there ongoing fees or compliance checks?
- Will you need professional indemnity insurance?
- Are you aware of sector-specific laws and standards?
Pro tips:
- Check with your industry body before you start trading.
- Some registrations can take weeks – apply early.
- Membership can help with networking and credibility.
Step 18: Register for Local Municipal Licences
Many businesses (especially retail, hospitality, food, and services) need a municipal business licence before trading.
Things to consider:
- Does your business need a health, safety, or trading licence?
- Are you operating from home or a commercial premises?
- Do you know the local zoning and by-law requirements?
- Are there annual renewal fees?
Pro tips:
- Start your municipal licence application early – it can take time.
- Check your city’s website for sector-specific requirements.
- Keep all correspondence and receipts for your records.
Step 19: Set Up Payroll & HR
If you’re hiring, you need to set up payroll, contracts, and HR policies. This keeps you legal and helps attract/retain talent.
Things to consider:
- Do you have written contracts for all employees?
- Are you calculating PAYE/UIF/SDL correctly?
- Do you have workplace policies (leave, discipline, etc)?
- Are you using payroll software or a provider?
Pro tips:
- HR templates are available online for South African law.
- Payroll mistakes can be costly – automate where possible.
- Good HR practices help you scale smoothly.
Step 20: Get Business Insurance
Protect your business from disasters, theft, and liability. The right insurance keeps you trading and gives peace of mind.
Things to consider:
- Do you need public liability, assets, or professional indemnity cover?
- Are you meeting any legal or client insurance requirements?
- Have you compared quotes from several providers?
- Do you understand what’s excluded from your policy?
Pro tips:
- Some clients require proof of insurance before working with you.
- Bundle policies for discounts.
- Review your cover annually as your business grows.