As hard as it is to imagine but South Africa has had to be accustomed to constant electric power cuts daily resulting in serious loses for businesses across the board. Subsequently, such power cuts have also meant a loss of income and jobs for people who depend on said businesses.

What does this mean for Small Business owners?

Inevitably, since loadshedding is a reality that is here to stay - at least for the foreseeable future - businesses without a back-up power system or a plan to carryon trading during power outages, income will be lost. Although it has not yet been confirmed that a power grid collapse is a definite possibility, it remains important for small businesses to be well equipped should the unexpected happen.

“South Africa is facing its worst power crisis since 2008. As the country’s struggling power utility, Eskom, battles to cope with demand for electricity, millions face the prospect of years of  “load-shedding”. ~ Source: Does South Africa face an electricity grid collapse? - Africa Check

Can it be business as usual during loadshedding? Yes, it can, here are some useful tips:

• The good news is that you can continue building your business your way even during loadshedding by knowing your area’s loadshedding schedule.  Keeping a close eye on this schedule will help you with the much-needed information to plan operations pertaining to your business.
• Perhaps consider staying open for longer hours to make up for any loss of business during power cuts
• If you are in a business zone or an area with nearby businesses, you can come together and share a generator to assist you to stay open when loadshedding strikes.
• If you need a stand-alone alternative power supply, consider putting some cash away to buy one for your business.

They may take away our electricity, but they can’t take away your passion to grow your business...

We see your vision. Let’s get you there with up to R5 million in Business Term Advance funding, a Solar Kit plus free installation valued at R200 000. What we know is that you believe in your business, and you know that with the right support, it has what it takes to take off.

When you apply for a Business Term Advance from now till the end of September, you can be one of the lucky businesses to receive business funding plus a solar kit.

Be the business that serves warm food, and hot percolated coffee even during power cuts.

Let’s get you started in just under 10 minutes here.