Running an accredited training company can be a strong, purpose-driven business. It is also tightly regulated. This is the realistic order of operations to launch one properly.
Step 1 — Register the business
Register a company with the CIPC, get a tax number and (if applicable) register for VAT and the skills-development levy. Open a business bank account and sort your basic compliance (e.g. B-BBEE affidavit or certificate).
Step 2 — Choose your qualifications
Decide which qualifications or part-qualifications you will offer. This single choice determines your quality-assurance body (a SETA ETQA or the QCTO/AQP) and everything that follows.
Step 3 — Build the engine: QMS + people
Develop a quality-management system, learning materials aligned to the qualification, and assessment instruments. Secure registered facilitators, assessors and moderators for your scope — you can find and verify them on Famasa.
Step 4 — Apply for accreditation
Submit your accreditation application to the relevant body and prepare for evaluation. See QCTO accreditation explained for the detail.
Step 5 — Launch and grow
Run your first intake, collect two-way ratings, and build a reputation. Your ratings appear on Skivo, where delegates choose providers — turning quality delivery into inbound enquiries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I train before I'm accredited?
You can offer non-accredited short courses, but you cannot issue accredited, credit-bearing certificates until accredited for that qualification.
How much capital do I need?
It varies widely. Budget for materials development, staff, facilities and several months of runway before accreditation and first revenue.