Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) often feels complicated, but for most small businesses the starting point is simple. Knowing your category and keeping the right documents can open doors to larger clients and tenders.
Know your category
Your B-BBEE requirements depend on your annual turnover:
- Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME) — turnover below R10 million. You qualify automatically and only need a sworn affidavit confirming your turnover and black ownership.
- Qualifying Small Enterprise (QSE) — turnover between R10 million and R50 million. Black-owned QSEs (51%+) can use an affidavit; others are measured on a scorecard.
- Generic Enterprise — turnover above R50 million, measured on the full scorecard and requiring formal verification.
The affidavit route
Most EMEs and many QSEs simply need a B-BBEE affidavit — a sworn statement of turnover and black ownership, commissioned by a Commissioner of Oaths. It is free and valid for 12 months.
Why your status matters
Larger companies earn points on their own scorecard for procuring from B-BBEE-compliant suppliers — especially black-owned EMEs and QSEs. A valid B-BBEE certificate or affidavit can be the difference between winning and losing work with corporates and government.
Planning ahead
If you are approaching the next turnover band, plan early. Ownership structure, skills development and enterprise development spending all influence your score, and these take time to put in place.
M&J Consultants helps you confirm your category, prepare affidavits and plan a scorecard that supports your growth.