BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICE (BASER)
The Background
One of the biggest challenges that is faced by South Africa is an unacceptably high
level of unemployment – which is estimated at 25%, according to 2012 Stats-SA figures.
Research suggests that Small, Micro & Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) have a potential to
reduce unemployment by a sizable portion. It is concerning however that most SMMEs
do not survive past a period of few years. One of the reasons behind this poor longevity
emanates from the lack of pertinent information that relates to the identification and
pursuit of relevant target markets, the use of appropriate funding models, the
employment of correct technical business methods, the development of a ‘winning’
business plan and the methodology for conducting appropriate business research.
BASER was established specifically to assist SMMEs by developing and applying
procedures, methodologies and practices that deal with these deficiencies.
The Rationale
It has been noted that most entrepreneurs that venture into business do so without
having done sufficient research about the kind of businesses that they intend
undertaking. The detrimental end result of this is that capital, time and emotion is
invested in a venture to which an understanding of is limited. Contrary to popular belief,
Ohpis Nevets does not believe that the lack of funding is the only and/or main
challenges that are facing SMMEs in South Africa – it is the lack of acquisition of the right
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information. Countries with far less SMMEs funding initiatives and structures like Kenya,
Zimbabwe, and India have a greater entrepreneurial inclination, and success records
than South Africa. Why?
There is evidence that suggests that the culture of self-belief and conviction also needs
to be improved. The previously disadvantaged groups in South Africa sometimes lack
role models that they can closely relate to who have achieved their success through
‘raw’ entrepreneurial talent.
A new ‘breed’ of entrepreneurs entails those that work closely with the government
through the tender systems. The main challenge with these role models is that not
everyone can be in a position to succeed in business through the government tender
system. The opportunities are sometimes too limited, and mostly very competitive.
There is a desperate need to carve entrepreneurs that look beyond government
tenders, a group of men and women who believe in their skills, in their expertise and in
their abilities to make it to the top. Baser was developed to add value in that process.
The Objectives
BASER was established for the following main objectives:

To assist SMMEs with the identification and comprehension of financing options
and models that are relevant for their businesses;

To assist SMMEs with regards to the construction of a ‘winning’ business planwhich is not only important to access capital, but which is critical for an overall
understanding of their businesses;

To assist SMMEs with sustainability and growth strategies;

To assist SMMEs with relevant business research.

To assist SMMEs with the identification, and application of business methods that
are practical and relevant to their businesses;

To motivate and assist entrepreneurs develop the ‘right’ culture and belief
system that is critical for being a successful entrepreneur; and
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
To assist SMMEs with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment models
inclusion into their businesses (including score-cards, BEE strategy and BEE deal
structuring).
The Practice
Entrepreneurs that require our assistance are encouraged to visit our offices or our
website (www.ohpisnevets.com) and book for an appointment. During an initial
appointment the needs assessment is conducted. Depending on the specific needs of
the client, the rightful solution is prepared and presented. During the application phase,
Ohpis Nevets’ consultants stay close to the entrepreneur, and to the business to identify
any challenges that may surface during this phase. Close communication between
Ohpis Nevets and the business owner is maintained throughout this process.
The Benefits
BASER offers the following benefits to the entrepreneur:

Identification and understanding of relevant and available funding options;

Co-construction of a business plan, including business branding;

Developing sustainability and growth strategies for the business;

Conducting relevant business research;

Developing and enforcing the culture the enforces self-belief and conviction
through motivation and coaching of entrepreneurs; and

Cost effective and innovative service.
Products and Pricing
All our products and services are affordably priced, however the exact price per
service depends on the nature of consultation, the combination of services, the
amount of time and resources expanded into the consultation. The prices are discussed
upfront with the Client, immediately after which a contract is signed between Ohpis
Nevets Investments and the Client. For a full pricing range, please speak to one of our
consultants.
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