Perceived barriers experienced by township small -, micro -, and medium enterprise entrepreneurs in Mamelodi

M. Comm.Entrepreneurship has a significant economic contribution in terms of employment, job creation and wealth creation that can be attributed to entrepreneurial enterprises (Bell, Callaghan, Demick & Scharf 2004:1). Entrepreneurial activity in any economy often takes place in the small- micro- and medium enterprise (SMME) business sector (Rwigema & Venter 2004:315). However, in the establishment of SMMEs, entrepreneurs encounter or perceive barriers that hinder the establishment, sustenance and growth of these important vehicles that are vital to the development of both society and the economy (Kunene 2008). The focus of this research study is therefore to identify barriers and perceived barriers to entrepreneurship. The study is exploratory and specifically attempts to identify and understand the barriers perceived and experienced by entrepreneurs in the township of Mamelodi in establishing, sustaining and growing enterprises