B-BBEE Scorecard Guide for South African SMEs: QSE & EME Explained (2026)
Your B-BBEE level determines whether you win or lose government and corporate tenders. This guide explains the scorecard, EME vs QSE classifications, 5 pillars, and practical steps to improve your level without major costs.
EME vs QSE vs Generic
- EME (Exempt Micro Enterprise): Turnover ≤R10m. Automatic Level 4. ≥51% black-owned = Level 2.
- QSE (Qualifying Small Enterprise): Turnover R10m–R50m. Measures 4 of 5 pillars.
- Generic Enterprise: Turnover over R50m. Full 5-pillar scorecard.
The 5 Scorecard Pillars
- Ownership (25 points) — Economic interest and voting rights held by black people
- Management Control (19 points) — Black representation in senior and executive management
- Skills Development (20 points) — Training spend as % of leviable payroll for black employees
- Enterprise & Supplier Development (40 points) — Spend on black-owned suppliers
- Socio-Economic Development (5 points) — Contributions to qualifying beneficiaries
B-BBEE Levels
Level 1 (100+ points): 135% recognition. Level 4 (80–89 points): minimum for most government tenders. Non-Compliant (under 40 points): disqualified from government procurement.