Small businesses from all over the East Rand are gearing up to exhibit their products and service offerings to corporate companies in the area by attending the Connection Hub Small Business Expo at the Brakpan Rugby Club on July 3.

“This expo aims to give smaller companies a platform to meet, engage and trade with bigger companies, foster new business relationships, and expand their businesses into the broader marketplace,” said Mientjie Kleinhans, co-founder of Connection Hub.

Entry to the Connection Hub Small Business Expo will be free of charge and business owners, decision makers, procurement officers, and other businesspeople are encouraged to explore the variety of solutions and offerings from small businesses in the Brakpan, Boksburg, Springs and Benoni areas.

“Exhibitors will include small businesses from a variety of industries, ranging from technology, manufacturing, services and creative enterprises, like marketing solutions, office catering, alternative power solutions, to a huge variety of manufacturing tools and equipment, and more,” said Jeanette Minderon, co-founder of Connection Hub.

The idea for the expo was born when members of Connection Hub Networking Group discussed their challenges with the co-founders.

“This expo will bridge the gap between small business offerings and larger corporations supporting local businesses,” said Mientjie.

There will be about 130 exhibition stalls from a variety of small businesses, of which some stalls have already been booked. A variety of additional activities that will fit in with the trade show are also planned, including a fashion show featuring office and evening wear.

“We are so pleased to announce that Caxton Media is our media partner and Liebenberg Malan Mofolo are our legal partners,” added Mientjie.

Jeanette cautioned that scammers are active and stressed that only Mientjie is authorised to take stall bookings for the exhibition. Small business owners who would like to book a stand can contact Mientjie at expo@connectionhub.co.za

• Connection Hub is a network of small business owners in Ekurhuleni, founded in January 2025. To become a member of Connection Hub is free and easy. All you have to do is adhere to the guidelines, terms and conditions.

To be an active member means that you regularly attend the networking events. As a member, you will also be a part of a WhatsApp group and will be informed of new events, interesting business information and have a chance to market your business on certain days.

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