Explore publications.

Immigrant entrepreneurship has been credited for its contribution to economic development globally. The importance placed on immigrant entrepreneurship has put it at the centre of debate in South Africa. The debate emanates from whether immigrant entrepreneurs bring value to the economy of South Africa or not. However, studies have revealed that immigrant entrepreneurship, if properly regulated, plays a pivotal role in the economy. The study aimed to investigate the role of cultural and disruptive innovation on immigrant entrepreneurs' competitive advantage. The study used a qualitative research methodology, which allowed the study to have a deeper insight into the experiences of immigrant entrepreneurs regarding the aspects of cultural and disruptive innovation, which play a role in their business performance. Data was collected from 20 immigrant entrepreneurs operating in the Eastern Cape. The study findings reveal that cultural and disruptive innovation aspects that have aided immigrant entrepreneurs in having a competitive advantage have more to do with adopting unique business models and strategies, which include networking, adaptability, and market creation or differentiation. The study also highlighted policy and practitioner implications, especially for South African township entrepreneurs.

Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are the foundation of South Africa's economy, driving job creation, innovation, and local economic growth. However, these businesses frequently face challenges in critical areas such as bookkeeping and financial literacy, which have a direct impact on operational performance and sustainability. Limited financial knowledge and inadequate record-keeping practices have long been issues for Alice's SMMEs, posing significant challenges to effective financial management. These gaps in financial literacy and bookkeeping make it difficult for SMMEs to manage cash flow, make informed decisions, and plan for growth, limiting their ability to fully contribute to the local economy. Addressing these challenges has become critical for SMMEs, as improved financial management practices are required for success and resilience in a competitive market. The study's exploring the impact of bookkeeping and financial literacy on the performance of SMMEs in the context of Alice. Data was collected qualitatively through in-depth interviews with 15 SMME operators and analysed thematically to gain a thorough understanding of their experiences and practices. The findings show that both accurate bookkeeping and financial literacy improve business performance, allowing owners to make data-driven decisions, avoid cash flow issues, and lay the groundwork for future growth. Those who fall short in these areas suffer from financial mismanagement, which harms their businesses. Despite the challenges, the study identified strategies implemented by SMMEs owners to improve both bookkeeping and financial literacy such as digital bookkeeping tools, external financial advisory support, and collaborative financial management across teams. Finding from this study are crucial for enhancing SMMEs’ operational performance and fostering economic resilience within South Africa's competitive market.

In emerging economies, women entrepreneurs play a critical role in job creation and social and economic progress, particularly in townships. However, the specific context of women's township entrepreneurship has mainly been overlooked in South African research, which remains fragmented and lacks cohesive insights. This study explores the role of microfinance in fostering women's township entrepreneurship within a South African context. Research has repeatedly demonstrated that microfinance institutions hold a vital position in the economic advancement of women, resulting in elevated female participation in business activities and ultimately fostering their overall empowerment. The investigation focused on women entrepreneurs within the marginalised township of Mdantsane, located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.  Using a qualitative approach, the study involved in-depth interviews with 15 women entrepreneurs selected through purposive sampling. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, revealing five key themes: empowerment through financial independence, building entrepreneurial skills and networks, increased business volume and turnover, overcoming socioeconomic barriers, and reduction in gender inequalities. The findings suggest that an intervention mapping approach is crucial for policymakers to design tailored microfinance programs for women entrepreneurs in township economies. This approach involves a systematic process that begins with a thorough assessment of the specific financial needs and challenges faced by women in these communities, followed by the development of targeted interventions that address those needs.