227 Factors Influencing Access to Financial Support: The Multifaceted Challenges Faced by SMMEs in Gauteng Province, South Africa DOI: https://doi.org/10.31920/2753-314X/2025/v4n2a10 Melvin Sello Mothoa Mangosuthu University of Technology Mothoa.melvin@mut.ac.za Edward Malatse Rankhumise Tshwane University of Technology rankhumiseem@tut.ac.za Ephraim Monde Faku Tshwane University of Technology FakuME@tut.ac.za Abstract Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are critical drivers of economic growth, employment generation, and innovation in Gauteng. However, access to financial resources remains a persistent challenge, limiting their sustainability and expansion. This research investigates the barriers to financial access among SMMEs through an empirical analysis of 382 structured surveys conducted across the province. By employing demographic, operational, and structural assessments, the findings reveal that stringent credit requirements, lack of collateral, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and limited financial literacy constitute major impediments to financing. Furthermore, the research identifies particularly vulnerable sectors and examines the efficacy of alternative financing mechanisms in addressing these challenges. This descriptive research provides a comprehensive understanding of SMME financing constraints, incorporating business owners' perspectives. Key African Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (AJIE) E-ISSN 2753-314X (Online); ISSN 2753-3131 (Print) Indexed by IBSS, EBSCO and SABINET Volume 4, Number 2, June 2025 Pp 227-252