Seen Here: Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise and Supplier Development at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, says the expansion of the Export Readiness Programme—now strengthened through a partnership with DHL Express South Africa—reflects Standard Bank’s commitment to equipping high-potential SMEs with the capabilities, networks and global trade expertise needed to unlock international markets, drive sustainable business growth and contribute to South Africa’s inclusive economic development. Photo Credit: Standard Bank
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking has expanded its flagship Export Readiness Programme to Gauteng and the Western Cape, following a successful pilot in KwaZulu-Natal, in a move aimed at accelerating the global competitiveness of South African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The banking giant has partnered with DHL Express South Africa as the programme’s official technical export readiness partner, combining financial expertise with world-class logistics knowledge to help local businesses access international markets and drive sustainable growth.
The initiative, delivered through Standard Bank’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programme, is designed for high-potential SMEs that are either already exporting or have demonstrated readiness to expand beyond South Africa’s borders.
The programme offers participating businesses practical training in export readiness, international trade regulations, logistics management, customs compliance, market research, market entry strategies and export finance, equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence and networks required to compete in global markets.
Speaking on the expansion, Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise and Supplier Development for Business & Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, said the initiative represents a strategic investment in South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“Exporting presents enormous opportunities for South African SMEs, but success requires more than simply accessing international markets. Businesses need the right capabilities, practical support and trusted partnerships. Through this expanded programme and our collaboration with DHL Express South Africa, we are empowering entrepreneurs to build resilient businesses that contribute to inclusive economic growth.”
The partnership brings together Standard Bank’s business development capabilities with DHL Express’ international logistics expertise, offering SMEs practical insights into navigating the complexities of cross-border trade.
According to Herman Venter, Managing Director of DHL Express South Africa, many local businesses possess the innovation and ambition to succeed globally but often face barriers when entering international markets.
“South African SMEs have tremendous potential to compete internationally, but global trade can be complex. By partnering with Standard Bank, we’re providing businesses with the expertise needed to understand export processes, customs requirements and international logistics, enabling them to expand confidently into new markets.”
The programme forms part of Standard Bank’s broader strategy to strengthen South Africa’s export economy by developing competitive businesses capable of creating employment and contributing to long-term economic growth.
Eligibility Criteria
The Export Readiness Programme is open to qualifying SMEs across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, regardless of where they bank.
Applicants must:
- Be at least 51% black-owned with a valid B-BBEE affidavit or certificate.
- Generate annual revenue of between R1 million and R50 million.
- Have operated for a minimum of 24 months.
- Have a majority shareholder who is a South African citizen actively involved in the business full-time.
- Not currently participate in another Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development programme.
- Have access to a computer or electronic device, reliable internet connectivity and basic digital literacy.
Beyond export preparation, the programme seeks to strengthen operational performance, improve business competitiveness and connect SMEs with new commercial opportunities that can accelerate long-term growth.
With exports increasingly recognised as a critical driver of economic diversification and job creation, the expanded initiative is expected to play an important role in helping South African businesses scale internationally while contributing to a more resilient economy.
Applications for the 2026 cohort close on 10 July 2026, with interested SMEs encouraged to submit their applications through Standard Bank’s Export Readiness Programme portal.
