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CRA'S: SME Consulting Division
CRA's SME Consulting Division is one of the largest specialist SME consulting service providers in Emerging Markets. We specialize in delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance the competitiveness, sustainability, and growth of SMEs. Our services support government bodies, multilateral organizations, and private sector stakeholders in optimizing their SME sectors through comprehensive consulting, advanced technological systems, and strategic research initiatives.
What We Do: SME Sector Optimization

1

System Development
We develop sophisticated IT systems tailored to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of SME operations. This includes lending platforms, business databases, grading systems (see below),SME learning platforms (see below), and mobile apps.

2

Process Streamlining
Our systems are designed to streamline processes, improving overall operational efficiencies. These systems are typically geared towards the public sector and multilateral organisations.

3

Decision-Making Enhancement
We provide solutions that improve decision-making capabilities for SME-related stakeholders. Our solutions have been implemented by both multilaterals and governments in emerging markets.

4

Sustainable Growth
Our solutions promote sustainable growth by optimizing resource allocation and strategic planning. We have a lot of experience in ESG-related aspects of the SME sector, as sustainability is one of our key areas of focus.
SME Policy Research and Formulation
Thorough Research
Our team conducts comprehensive research to formulate policies that are both practical and impactful for SMEs. We have completed work for some of the major multilaterals in this space.
Female-Owned Businesses
We have an in-depth understanding of female-owned businesses and provide innovative solutions that can boost business and funding opportunities.
Evidence-Based Policies
Our policy recommendations are grounded on data-driven insights and best practices from global SME sectors. We utilize our in-depth econometric modelling skills within all consulting engagements.
In-Depth SME Sector Research

1

Extensive Data Collection
We conduct extensive primary data collection efforts in both urban and remote areas to gain deep insights into the SME sector. We also utilize the latest technologies to ensure that primary data collection is seamlessly completed.

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Comprehensive Analysis
Our research forms the foundation for strategic recommendations and solutions tailored to specific SME environments.

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Diverse Geographic Coverage
We ensure our research encompasses a wide range of locations to provide a holistic view of SME challenges and opportunities.
Innovative SME-Funding Solutions:
1
Identify Challenges
We analyze the unique financial challenges faced by SMEs in different sectors and regions. Our background in SME credit ratings allows us to have a first hand understanding of the key challenges that SMEs face with access to funding.
2
Develop Solutions
We have advised key multilateral organisations on funding solutions for the SME sector, some of our key clients included the World Bank Group and the United Nations (various divisions).
3
Improve Access
We focus on improving access to capital for SMEs through various channels and partnerships. We focus on solutions for both traditional and non-traditional funding channels.
4
Reduce Risk
Our solutions are designed to reduce financial risks for both SMEs and lenders. This is one of our key value-adds as the de-risking of SMEs is one main tools which open up both business and funding opportunities.
5
Promote Growth
Ultimately, our solutions aim to promote sustainable business growth for SMEs. We do not just focus on funding opportunities but focus extensively on business opportunities as we believe that this is the key to a sustainable SME sector.
SME Grading Systems Development

1

System Design
We are leaders in developing SME grading systems for governments, creating some of the largest systems in the world. This includes SME ESG grading systems which are geared to promoting green and sustainable outcomes.

2

Performance Assessment
Our grading systems provide a reliable framework for assessing the performance of SMEs across various metrics. Please see below for the system we designed for the Nigerian government.

3

Potential Evaluation
The systems also evaluate the growth potential of SMEs, aiding in strategic decision-making for stakeholders. Click below for a sample SME grading report which captures how we measure SMEs.

4

Continuous Improvement
We regularly update and refine our grading systems to ensure they remain relevant and effective. Please click below for an overview of the methodologies we create to assess businesses within our grading system.
SME Online Learning and Capacity Building
Accessible Platforms
We create online learning and capacity-building portals that are designed to be accessible and user-friendly for SMEs.
Tailored Content
Our platforms offer content tailored to the specific needs and challenges of SMEs in various sectors. We also focus on content which is not common on other platform such as business development in a digital environment or regional and continental specific export courses.
Skill Development
The online learning resources focus on empowering SMEs with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in competitive markets.
Continuous Learning
We regularly update our platforms to ensure SMEs have access to the latest industry insights and best practices.
Advisory Services to Multilateral Organizations
Global Expertise
We serve as lead advisors to some of the world's largest multilateral organizations on SME-related initiatives. We are also emerging market specialists from an SME perspective
Comprehensive Understanding
Our advisory services are grounded in extensive experience and a deep understanding of global SME challenges and opportunities.
Strategic Guidance
We provide strategic guidance on policy formulation, program design, and implementation strategies for SME development initiatives.
Cutting Edge SME Research With Leading Academic Institutions
Parallel Research
We collaborate with faculty members from Harvard Business School on most of our SME-related consulting project.
Driving Innovation
The collaboration provides valuable insights that drive innovation and best practices in the SME sector.
Knowledge Exchange
We regularly exchange knowledge with leading academics to ensure that our consulting work incorporates leading research in the SME space.
Thought Leadership: Published Works

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Expert Authors
Our leadership team includes published authors and thought leaders in the field of SME development.

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Notable Publication
One notable publication is "The Next Frontier in SME Ratings," authored by Saveshen Pillay (MD), available for order via Palgrave New York.

3

Comprehensive Guide
This book delves into the future of SME funding and provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the evolving landscape.
Why Choose Us: Commitment to Excellence

1

Quality Assurance
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the rigorous quality assurance processes we apply to all our work.

2

Continuous Improvement
We constantly seek ways to improve our methodologies and services based on feedback and emerging best practices.

3

Measurable Outcomes
Our focus on excellence translates into measurable, positive outcomes for our clients and the SMEs we support.

4

Industry Recognition
Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition and accolades within the industry.
Sustainable Development Goals Alignment
Economic Growth
Our work directly contributes to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by empowering SMEs to create jobs and drive economic development.
Innovation
We support SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by fostering innovation within the SME sector.
Reduced Inequalities
Our initiatives align with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by promoting inclusive economic growth through SME development.
Partnerships
We embody SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through our collaborations with various stakeholders in the SME ecosystem.
Contact Us
Email
Reach out to us via email at info@creditratinganalytics.co.za for inquiries and
information.
Phone
Contact us by phone at + 27 10 003 7858 to speak directly with our team.
Website
Visit our website at www.creditratinganalytics.co.za for more information about our services and expertise.