Standard Bank and DHL Expand Export Programme to Help More SMEs
Standard Bank and DHL Expand Export Programme to Help More SMEs. Standard Bank has expanded its Export Readiness Programme to Gauteng and the Western Cape through a partnership with DHL Express South Africa, giving more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access to training and support aimed at preparing them for international trade.
The initiative, which was previously launched in KwaZulu-Natal, forms part of Standard Bank’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) offering and targets export-ready businesses with the potential to grow beyond South Africa’s borders.
According to Standard Bank, the programme combines business development support with practical export training to help SMEs strengthen their competitiveness and better position themselves for international markets.
Through the partnership, DHL Express South Africa will provide technical expertise covering several aspects of exporting, including export readiness, international trade processes, customs requirements, logistics, market research, market entry strategies and export finance.
The programme is designed to equip participating businesses with practical knowledge and skills that can help them navigate the complexities of cross-border trade and prepare for expansion into overseas markets.
Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise and Supplier Development for Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, said expanding the programme to additional provinces would enable more businesses to explore international opportunities while building long-term competitiveness.
Herman Venter, Managing Director of DHL Express South Africa, said the collaboration is intended to provide SMEs with the expertise required to understand export processes and develop the capabilities needed to compete internationally.
Applications for the programme are open to qualifying SMEs regardless of which financial institution they use for their banking.
To be eligible, businesses must be at least 51% Black-owned, have an annual turnover of between R1 million and R50 million, have been operating for a minimum of 24 months, and be based in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal or the Western Cape. Applicants must also have a South African majority shareholder who is actively involved in the business.
According to Standard Bank, the programme focuses on businesses that are ready to begin exporting or are seeking to strengthen their export capabilities through structured support and practical industry knowledge.
The expansion reflects the bank’s continued focus on supporting SME growth by providing access to development programmes that help businesses explore new markets and strengthen their long-term sustainability.
Applications for the current intake close on 10 July 2026.
