Entrepreneurs will this week present their pitches to the some of the country’s biggest funding bodies in the hopes of securing R10 million investments for their businesses.
Alan Winde, MEC of Economic Opportunities, will attend the inaugural Western Cape Funding Fair at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Wednesday, 18 March 2015.
The fair is a joint initiative between the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Deloitte.
MEC Winde, who will deliver the opening address at 08:30, says he is confident that the event will go a long way in assisting budding entrepreneurs.
“Creating opportunities for economic growth and jobs is our number one priority in the Western Cape. We believe that entrepreneurs are critical in achieving this. Ensuring that entrepreneurs have access to financial support networks is a key part of our strategy to ensure we foster small and medium businesses. Through the Funding Fair, a joint initiative between government and the private sector, we are connecting entrepreneurs with the right investors to take their businesses forward, better together.”
Marius Alberts, Deloitte Western Cape regional leader, says the company recognises that entrepreneurship is increasingly being viewed by both government and the private sector as the primary means to drive economic and social development.
“We are hopeful that the Funding Fair platform will benefit funders, project promoters, entrepreneurs, and in the long run, contribute to the growth of the Western Cape economy,” says Alberts.
Forty businesses will present their pitches to funding bodies during closed sessions. The public are invited to attend the exhibition and panel discussions.
Various funding institutions and business chambers will exhibit to engage with delegates and share information about their services and business products.
While attendance to the Funding Fair is free, delegates are required to register online to book their seats at www.westerncapefundingfair.co.za. Tomorrow is the registration deadline.
Enquiries:
Bronwynne Jooste, Spokesperson: Alan Winde, MEC of Economic Opportunities
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 430
