Western Cape Funding Fair helping small business connect with big institutions.
Business owners and entrepreneurs have streamed into the CTICC for the annual Western Cape Funding Fair- an event aimed at helping small businesses access finance opportunities.
By 10.30 am, about 650 people had arrived for a day of discussions, networking and opportunities to engage with finance institutions. About 2000 people have registered to attend the free event.
The Funding Fair, a partnership between Deloitte and the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, aims to connect small businesses with organisations that could potentially fund them.
Established in 2014, the Funding Fair is made up of three different elements- an exhibition-style fair where business owners and entrepreneurs will be able to meet and interact with 25 funding organisations, ranging from the major banks to crowd funding.
The second element consists of a speakers’ programme, which this year also includes panel discussions around building relevant businesses into the future, and finding opportunities for SMEs.
The Funding Fair also includes a series of master classes which will take place this afternoon. Topics include how businesses can leverage digital to work for them, finance and numbers, as well as investment readiness.
Minister of Economic Opportunities, Alan Winde said “The Funding Fair has become an increasingly popular way for businesses who are looking to expand and grow, to meet the organisations that can potentially finance that growth. SMEs play a vital part in growing the Western Cape economy and creating employment opportunities, and this fair is a way to facilitate relationships between businesses and funding. Entrepreneurs also gain practical knowledge that they can use to develop their businesses.”
Marius Alberts, Deloitte Western Cape leader said “We have learnt first-hand from those attending the Funding Fair about the challenges they face in securing funding, and we tailored the programme to address this critical issue. Since 2014, over 3000 entrepreneurs and business owners have attended the Funding Fair. Guided by feedback from previous years, the programme this year has been carefully structured to provide a robust and engaging full-day event.”
Media Enquiries:
Bianca Capazorio
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 072 372 7044
E-mail: bianca.capazorio@westerncape.gov.za
