Running a business in South Africa isn’t easy, but small business owners continue to show up with resilience, creativity, and grit.

Between load shedding, rising costs, and economic uncertainty, 2024 was another year of curveballs. And yet, small businesses didn’t just survive - they grew.

According to Xero’s State of South African Small Business 2024 report:

• 73% of small businesses reported growth.

• 87% felt optimistic about the year ahead.

And that optimism has only grown stronger in the latest data:

In Xero’s 2025 edition:

• 83% of small businesses reported revenue growth.

• 90% said they’re confident about the future.

Their confidence isn’t just wishful thinking. It’s coming from smarter decisions, stronger support, and better tools.

Here’s how you can grow your business in 2025: backed by data and powered by real-world insights.

1. Use technology to create order (and gain back time)

The days of doing it all manually are behind us. From streamlining payments to tracking inventory, technology makes your business easier to run and grow.

In Xero’s 2024 report:

• 62% of business owners said cloud tools helped them work more efficiently.

• 37% said adopting technology led to a measurable increase in their profits.

But unlocking that value isn’t just about having the tools, it’s about knowing how to use them. That’s why in 2025, 39% of small businesses say they’re prioritising digital upskilling, from mastering cloud platforms to exploring AI.

What this means for you:

Start with tools that are easy to use, offer real support, and give you visibility over your business. Even small shifts like switching to cloud-based accounting or using a smart POS system can save you hours, reduce errors, and give you a sense of control.

2. Build a strong support system around you

You’re not meant to do this alone.

From trusted bookkeepers to WhatsApp groups of fellow founders, having people in your corner can change everything. Xero’s 2024 report found that access to support and advice networks was a key driver of growth and optimism among high-performing small businesses.

But support isn’t just about conversations, it’s about tools that remove stress. Cash flow remains one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs, which is why many are turning to flexible funding solutions like Yoco Capital to bridge quieter months, invest in upgrades, or simply free up mental space.

When you’re backed by the right people and the right tools, you make better decisions.

3. Solve late payments, reclaim your time

Cash flow issues are the silent killer of small businesses.

Nearly half (46%) of business owners say they spend 1–2 months of every year chasing late payments. That’s up to 60 days not spent building, selling, or growing.

It’s time to fix that and get paid faster.

Here’s how to start:

• Set clear payment terms.

• Use automated reminders to follow up without delays.

• Offering fast, frictionless ways for customers to pay.

• Follow up early and consistently.

The easier you make it to pay you, the faster you get paid. And every hour you save is time you can reinvest in your business.

4. Invest in your people

Your business can only grow as fast as your team does.

In 2025:

• 42% of business owners plan to invest in staff training.

• 40% say they’ll grow their teams.

When you provide your people with the tools and support they need, you create an environment that builds creativity, loyalty, and performance.

This doesn’t have to mean expensive courses. Try:

• Hands-on demos of new tools.

• Cross-training between roles.

• Creating space for experimentation.

The more your people feel supported, the more they’ll contribute to long-term success.

5. Remember: growth is a team sport

Building a business might feel like a solo journey, but real growth happens when you’re part of something bigger.

The most resilient entrepreneurs lean on others: teammates, advisors, suppliers, funders, and fellow business owners. Whether it’s sharing knowledge, pooling resources, or learning from someone else’s mistakes, your network is one of your biggest growth assets.

The data backs it up: South African small businesses are building momentum not just through grit, but through smart collaboration, shared learning, and community-driven support.

No one wins alone. Surround yourself with people (and tools) that move you forward.

So as you shape your growth plan for 2025:

• Choose tools that give you clarity.

• Build systems that save you time.

• Lean on your networks.

• Back your team.

This is your year to trade with confidence, build with purpose, and grow something great.