Small businesses contribution to rural economic development in the Greater Giyani Municipality area: perceptions from owners

Abstract

There is an increasing acknowledgment of the prospective small businesses has on rural economic development and job creation in South Africa. Although deliberations on the discourse continue to trend about the virtual contributions of small businesses, substantiation from recent studies supports their imperative heroine as an economic engine of rural development. However, challenges in the industry such as lack of funding opportunities, crime, and management skills inhibit the emergence and thriving of small businesses. Through both the qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, this study probed the small businesses owner's perceptions on the rural economic development role at the Greater Giyani Local Municipality, Limpopo Province. Data were collected through questionnaires and supplementary interviews among 70 small business operators. The study therefore revealed that although small businesses positively contribute to the socio-economic well-being, improving the local economy and job creation, support from government, business and civil society sectors is required to ensure a more immense contribution by small businesses.