The Integral Role of Coaching and Aftercare in Maximizing Small Business Growth in Pretoria, South Africa

In the dynamic landscape of South African small business development, coaching and aftercare emerge as pivotal elements. This study scrutinises their integral role in catalyzing growth, particularly through the lens of value creation and the multiplier effect. Engaging ten Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) from Pretoria, the research employs a qualitative, interpretivist approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews to capture nuanced insights. The findings reveal a triad of outcomes: high satisfaction with coaching methodologies, a positive shift in entrepreneurial behavior, and a tangible multiplier effect on financial and employment metrics. However, the need for content refinement and enhanced aftercare support is evident. This study underscores the imperative of a beneficiary-focused measurement framework and the strategic incorporation of aftercare to bolster the efficacy of coaching interventions.