SINCE 1994 thousands of people have left the safe world of permanent employment and a guaranteed pay cheque to start their own businesses.
Affirmative business practice initiatives have meant that there are more opportunities than ever for fledgling black business people.
The initiatives, however, don’t bring with them reliable sources of information and education. People may be encouraged to draw on their entrepreneurial spirit, but if they don’t have the basic facts about setting up a business, the very existence of opportunity is threatened.
A group of former development workers spotted the need for reliable information for new business developers. In 1996 they started BigNews, a monthly newspaper distributed free of charge, that spread the word about new opportunities. Launched in the Western Cape, its circulation soon grew to 20Â 000. Last year BigNews went national and now enjoys a distribution of 200Â 000.
One of the major differences between black and white small businesses is that black small business owners are first-generation entrepreneurs. The editorial mission of BigNews is to provide a sense of solidarity to those trying to gain access to a world that has historically excluded them.
The paper aims to provide the vital role model needed by new business owners and to give information on management skills and opportunities. BigNews has a strong emphasis on black business but has also developed a loyal white readership.
Each edition gives practical information on the types of loans available and how to go about getting them. There is also advice and words of comfort and inspiration for those struggling to get a project off the ground.
The paper is free to ensure maximum access and a mass-circulation. BigNews is distributed in post offices, banks, shops and any outlets that it sees as likely targets for small businesses.