This chapter explores the role of small business development in advancing inclusive growth in post-apartheid South Africa. The chapter draws on the inclusive growth framework to assess how small business development has fostered broad-based participation in economic processes. Combining qualitative policy review with the analysis of quantitative data from Statistics South Africa and the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, the chapter evaluates progress made since 1994 and examines emerging trends within the sector. Particular attention is paid to the sector’s formal-informal divide, women and youth inclusion and provincial disparities. The chapter argues that while small businesses contribute significantly to employment and value addition, persistent challenges such as limited access to finance, regulatory burdens, inadequate infrastructure, skills deficits and weak innovation ecosystems continue to constrain their potential. The chapter concludes by offering policy recommendations aligned with OECD guidelines to create an enabling environment that supports small business development and contribution to long-term inclusive growth.