Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking has expanded its Export Readiness Programme to Gauteng and the Western Cape, partnering with DHL Express South Africa to equip more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the skills and expertise needed to compete in international markets.
The programme builds on the success of its pilot in KwaZulu-Natal and is designed to help export-ready and growth-focused businesses strengthen their capabilities, improve competitiveness and unlock new opportunities beyond South Africa’s borders.
Delivered through Standard Bank’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) initiative, the programme combines business development support with practical export training, giving participating SMEs access to specialist knowledge on international trade, logistics, compliance, market entry strategies and export finance.
Standard Bank said the expanded initiative reflects its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs by providing the tools, networks and practical guidance required to build sustainable export businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation.
Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise and Supplier Development for Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, said exporting offers significant opportunities for local businesses but requires more than simply accessing overseas markets.
She noted that businesses need the right capabilities, trusted partners and practical support to compete successfully on the global stage. Through the partnership with DHL Express South Africa, the programme aims to provide entrepreneurs with the confidence and expertise needed to pursue international growth while building resilient businesses.
As the programme’s technical export readiness partner, DHL Express South Africa will deliver expert guidance on global trade processes, customs procedures, cross-border logistics, export compliance, market research and international market access.
Herman Venter, Managing Director of DHL Express South Africa, said South African SMEs possess the innovation and ambition to succeed internationally but often face challenges navigating global trade requirements.
He explained that combining DHL’s international logistics expertise with Standard Bank’s business development programme would help entrepreneurs better understand export processes and position their businesses for sustainable international growth.
The Export Readiness Programme is open to qualifying SMEs regardless of their banking institution. Eligible businesses must be at least 51% black-owned, generate an annual turnover of between R1 million and less than R50 million, have operated for a minimum of two years and have a South African majority shareholder actively involved in the business. Applicants must also be based in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal or the Western Cape, have access to reliable internet connectivity and not currently participate in another Standard Bank ESD programme.
Applications for the programme close on 10 July 2026, with successful participants gaining access to practical export training, business capability development and opportunities to strengthen their presence in international markets.
By investing in export-ready enterprises, Standard Bank and DHL Express aim to support the growth of South Africa’s SME sector, diversify the country’s export economy and create new opportunities for inclusive economic development.