The Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP) has opened applications for experienced mentors, consultants and business development specialists to join its Business Mentor and Business Development Support database, creating a new commercial opportunity for professionals while expanding support available to small businesses across the province.
The move comes as many Gauteng SMEs continue to face pressure from weak demand, rising operating costs and limited access to specialist advice in areas such as finance, compliance, marketing and growth planning. While funding remains a major challenge for entrepreneurs, many business owners say mentorship and technical support are equally critical to building sustainable businesses.
GEP said the initiative is aimed at strengthening enterprise development by appointing qualified mentors and service providers who can help micro, small and medium enterprises improve operational performance, unlock market opportunities and become investment-ready.
The programme is also expected to support township enterprises and funded businesses that require post-investment guidance.
Applications close on 04 May 2026, with successful applicants expected to provide coaching, advisory services, training and specialised technical interventions to SMEs in Gauteng.
Opportunity for experts and service providers
GEP is seeking mentors with at least five years of relevant industry experience and a proven track record in entrepreneurship, enterprise development or business growth. Professionals with experience in coaching, turnaround strategies, operational management and strategic planning are likely to be well positioned.
The agency is also inviting service providers with expertise in priority sectors such as manufacturing, information and communication technology, renewable energy, green enterprise and industrial development. Support may include bookkeeping systems, digital transformation, governance structures, market access readiness and export preparation.
For consultants, trainers and advisory firms, inclusion on the database could create access to future assignments linked to Gauteng’s growing SME support ecosystem.
Why mentorship matters for small business
Entrepreneurs say access to experienced guidance can often determine whether a business grows or stalls. Many founders launch with strong ideas but limited experience in pricing strategy, compliance systems, cash flow control or scaling operations.
Leruo Mohlala, founder of Vertex Digital Solutions, a Midrand-based SME providing web development and automation services to small firms, said technical mentorship is often more valuable than once-off funding.
“A lot of entrepreneurs receive money but do not always receive the systems support needed to grow properly. If someone can help you structure operations, manage clients and build discipline, that can change the future of the business,” Mohlala said.
Kabelo Phakedi, owner of Phakedi Freight Assist, a Johannesburg logistics support company servicing online retailers and wholesalers, said many SMEs struggle because owners are forced to learn everything through expensive mistakes.
“Small businesses need people who have already solved the problems we are facing now. Advice on pricing, staff management, contracts and customer retention can save years of trial and error,” Phakedi said.
He added that stronger mentorship would also improve confidence when applying for finance. “Banks and investors want organised businesses. Guidance helps owners present themselves professionally.”
How to apply
Interested applicants must submit an Expression of Interest to BDSadvisors@gep.co.za together with supporting documents.
Required documents include an updated company profile or CV, CIPC registration documents for companies, a valid SARS tax clearance certificate, a B-BBEE certificate or affidavit where applicable, and proof of registration on the National Treasury Central Supplier Database.
GEP said registration on the Central Supplier Database is required for formal appointment under public procurement rules.
For Gauteng professionals with the right expertise, the programme offers more than consulting opportunities. It also offers a chance to help build stronger, more competitive small businesses across the province.
