The development of an entrepreneurial business framework in Gauteng province

Background: Entrepreneurs in Gauteng, South Africa’s economic hub, face growing pressure to integrate sustainability into their business models. As responsible operations become essential, the need for supportive frameworks has intensified. Developing a robust framework for sustainable entrepreneurial businesses in Gauteng province can maximise business opportunities and sustainable operations. Aim: This paper presents a developed framework for sustainable entrepreneurial businesses in Gauteng, with an objective of identifying key factors for the success and resilience of SMMEs. Setting: The setting for the study was across the central, eastern, western, northern, and southern regions of Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods: The study applied quantitative approach based on exploratory and descriptive research design. Using stratified random sampling, the study sampled 450 SMMEs in Gauteng and 445 (98.88%) responses were received. Results: The study revealed that most businesses were initiated either through the purchase of existing businesses (27.19%) or through entrepreneurs’ own initiatives (25.62%), with family-owned businesses playing a notable role (24.27%). Factors identified with a significant relationship to organisational capabilities were: business performance, entrepreneurial skills and competence, competitive scope, considering factors contributing to success and profitability and challenges faced by SMMEs (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The findings suggest that SMMEs in Gauteng province benefit from a multidimensional approach that integrates factors, such as entrepreneurial skills and competence, competitive scope, considering factors contributing to success and profitability with organisational capabilities to ensure long-term business sustainability. Contribution: This framework provides essential knowledge for policymakers, entrepreneurs and researchers aiming to foster a thriving and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem in Gauteng and similar emerging markets.