E.M Rankhumise, M.E Letsoalo
This cross-sectional qualitative study was aimed at exploring the factors that are associated with the performance of small, medium and micro enterprises in South Africa and China. Purposive sampling was used to select 10 business owners to take part in the study. Data collected was analysed using Tesch’s data reduction technique of open coding. The study revealed that training in financial management, managerial skills, government support and access to market, use of technology and start-up capital, all of which are important for the viability and success of businesses, are important for the performance of the business. The results of the study indicate that access to finance by small, medium and micro enterprises remains an important challenge. It is recommended that policy-makers and government support agencies refine their support intervention strategies and policies for small businesses to thrive.