(Practical Skills for Starting and Managing Your Own Business)

Duration: 3 Months
Programme Type: Provider-Based Short Course (Non-Credit Bearing)
Certification: Certificate of Proficiency / Completion
Mode of Delivery: On-Campus | Online | Blended

Programme Overview

This programme equips learners with practical skills to start, manage, and grow a small business or enterprise. Learners will develop knowledge in entrepreneurship, business planning, financial management, marketing, operations, and investor engagement.

Suitable for aspiring entrepreneurs, school leavers, job seekers, and individuals exploring self-employment opportunities.

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurship

• Understanding entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial mindset
• Characteristics of successful entrepreneurs
• Identifying business opportunities and gaps in the market
• Ethics and professionalism in business

Module 2: New Venture Creation & Business Start-Up Steps

• Developing a business idea from concept to plan
• Steps to start a business:
  • Choosing a business structure (sole proprietor, partnership, company)
  • Company registration with CIPC
  • Opening a business bank account
  • Obtaining a tax certificate / SARS registration
  • Understanding legal and regulatory compliance
• Raising capital:
  • Self-funding, loans, grants, crowdfunding
  • Attracting and engaging investors
  • Preparing investor pitches and proposals

Module 3: Business Planning & Strategy

• Writing a business plan
• Strategic planning and decision-making
• Identifying target markets and customers
• Competitive analysis and positioning

Module 4: Financial Management for Start-Ups

• Basics of business finance and bookkeeping
• Budgeting and cash flow management
• Pricing strategies and cost management
• Financial monitoring and reporting

Module 5: Marketing & Sales

• Introduction to marketing principles and promotion
• Digital marketing and social media strategies
• Sales techniques and customer engagement
• Branding, packaging, and creating an online presence

Module 6: Operations & Business Growth

• Setting up business operations and workflow
• Customer service and relationship management
• Managing small teams and resources
• Planning for growth and scaling the business

Module 7: Practical Entrepreneurship Project

• Applying learned skills in a mini business project
• Developing a business plan and investor pitch
• Presenting a mock business proposal
• Receiving practical feedback for improvement

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, learners will be able to:

• Understand entrepreneurial principles and mindset
• Start and register a business in South Africa
• Manage finances, operations, and marketing effectively
• Engage investors and raise capital for business growth
• Apply skills in practical business projects
• Demonstrate professionalism and entrepreneurial readiness

Entrance Requirements

• Grade 10, Matric, or equivalent
• No prior business or entrepreneurship experience required

Career & Skills Pathways

This programme prepares learners to:

• Start their own business or small enterprise
• Work in junior business development or project roles
• Prepare business plans for funding or investment opportunities
• Develop entrepreneurial skills applicable in any sector

Compliance & Accreditation Note

This is a provider-based, non-credit-bearing short course developed and assessed by Excel Gene Academy.
It is not registered on the NQF and does not carry SAQA accreditation, but enhances entrepreneurship skills, employability, and practical business readiness.

Excel Gene Academy – Learn. Transform. Excel.

Empowering learners to become innovative entrepreneurs and business leaders.