If you run a small business in South Africa, getting your B-BBEE certificate or affidavit is one of the easiest ways to boost credibility, win clients, and access bigger opportunities — especially tenders, contracts, and corporate partnerships.
Let’s break it down simply.
What Is B-BBEE?
B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) is a government policy that promotes economic participation of Black South Africans in business.
Businesses are given a B-BBEE level from Level 1 (best) to Level 8 (worst).
Your level helps large companies decide whether to work with you, because it affects their own compliance score.
Higher level = more opportunities.
Do Micro Businesses Need B-BBEE?
Yes — Micro Enterprises (turnover < R10 million) can get a Level 1 certificate easily, even without complex requirements.
And the best part?
You can get it for free via a B-BBEE Affidavit.
What Is a B-BBEE Affidavit?
It’s a simple sworn statement confirming:
- Your business turnover
- Your black ownership percentage
- That you qualify as an Exempt Micro Enterprise (EME)
This affidavit replaces the need for an expensive B-BBEE certificate.
How EME Levels Work
All businesses with turnover below R10 million fall into this category.
| Ownership | B-BBEE Level |
|---|---|
| 100% Black-owned | Level 1 |
| 51% – 99% Black-owned | Level 2 |
| 0% – 50% Black-owned | Level 4 (default) |
No audits. No complicated paperwork.
How to Get Level 1 as a Micro Enterprise
To qualify for Level 1, your business must meet only TWO conditions:
1. Turnover below R10 million (Micro Enterprise)
This includes:
- Sole proprietors
- Pty Ltd companies
- Partnerships
- NPOs (if applicable)
2. 100% Black Ownership
This means every shareholder (or the owner) must be:
- African
- Coloured
- Indian (as defined under B-BBEE Act)
If your business is 100% black-owned, you automatically qualify for Level 1.
How to Get Your B-BBEE Affidavit
Option 1: Download the CIPC Affidavit
- Go to cipc.co.za
- Search: B-BBEE Affidavit Templates
- Choose the EME Affidavit
- Fill in:
- Business name
- Registration number
- Owner details
- Annual turnover
- Ownership %
- Take it to a Commissioner of Oaths (police station, post office, bank)
- They stamp & sign it — done!
Option 2: Get it from Creative Bookkeepers
If you want a professional, branded version:
- We prepare the affidavit
- Ensure it’s compliant
- Provide guidance on tenders and CSD
- Help you improve your level if needed
Why Your Business Needs B-BBEE
Even if you don’t do tenders, B-BBEE has major benefits:
✔ Corporates prefer suppliers with B-BBEE
✔ Government tenders require it
✔ Helps in partnerships & subcontracting
✔ Boosts your business credibility
✔ Opens funding opportunities
✔ Required for CSD registration
Even on Facebook Marketplace or informal selling — B-BBEE boosts trust.
Tips to Maintain Level Compliance
To keep your level strong:
- Keep turnover accurate
- Keep your affidavit updated annually
- Ensure shareholders remain consistent
- Update your CSD profile
- Keep business documents clean (CIPC + SARS compliance)
If your goal is tenders or large contracts, always keep your documents organized.
Final Thoughts
Getting your B-BBEE Level 1 as a micro enterprise is:
✔ Free
✔ Simple
✔ Fast
✔ A powerful growth tool
For small businesses in South Africa, this is one of the easiest ways to position yourself for bigger opportunities.
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