As part of its strategy to empower SMMEs, the City of Joburg will host a pavilion showcasing the products and services of 60 small local businesses.

Empowertec Africa is a small business opportunities showcase that forms part of the SA Industry and Technology Fair (Indutec) taking place this week at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand.

The show provides a valuable platform for SMMEs to showcase their offerings, discover prospective partners and customers, interact with local and international buyers and explore the myriad business opportunities that Indutec delivers to all participants.

Over 220 companies from 14 countries, including France, Turkey, Nigeria and India, will be at this year’s fair, with a key focus on manufacturing and technology.

Business owners can still sign up

“Small business owners around Joburg can still be part of the pavilion,” says Reginald Pholo, a Director at the Department of Economic Development.

“SMMEs in the manufacturing, engineering, water, petrochemical, plastics, energy efficiency, waste and recycling sectors who wish to showcase their products and services on the City of Joburg pavilion need only contact the organisers of the Indutec show,” says Pholo.

Empowering small business development

“We are determined to support the development of entrepreneurship, SMME businesses and employment opportunities in Gauteng and the City of Joburg – hence our involvement with Empowertec Africa,” adds Pholo.

“Johannesburg is a vibrant economic hub; it’s the perfect place to invest in business growth, and now is the right time to do so. SMME owners and stakeholders cannot afford to miss the many networking and matchmaking opportunities, business leads, conferences and workshops available at Indutec.”

Commenting on the Ministry of Small Business Development’s decision to support Empowertec Africa, Deputy Minister Elizabeth Thabethe says:

“The National Development Plan envisages that, by 2030, 90% of new employment will be generated by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs); Empowertec Africa is a vital stepping stone in achieving that goal.”