Showcasing small businesses
Moolla said they identified the need for dialogue and positive action in dealing with the challenges presently faced by young people in South Africa, to participate effectively in the economy.
The SmartXchange Incubator in Port Shepstone recently held a ‘Connect With My Biz’ event for its Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to connect them with other businesses and stakeholders.
According to SmartXchange centre manager, Fatima Moolla, they decided to host the event in recognition of Youth Month.
Moolla said they identified the need for dialogue and positive action in dealing with the challenges presently faced by young people in South Africa, to participate effectively in the economy.
She added that the centre’s team conceptualised the idea with the purpose of developing awareness of the SmartXchange Incubator, start-ups, and the business community.
Moolla said Connect With My Biz also presented an opportunity for the youth and all participants in the business ecosystem to explore the facilities of SmartXchange, meet and network with other SMMEs, strategic partners, and existing and prospective clients.
“We also want to bridge the gap between small businesses, funding agencies, and local businesses, networking, and information sharing. Those who don’t know about SmartXchange, should think of us as a university where SMMEs are given the best opportunities to grow and succeed in media, ICT, electronics, and the arts sector. A place where one is mentored and provided with the necessary support and infrastructure that will allow a business to grow,” said Moolla.
The manager added that while the country continues to grapple with increasing unemployment rates, crime, and other ills, they hope that through the initiatives of SmartXchange and their strategic partners, they will be able to draw more young people into the economy through entrepreneurial and innovative economic activities.
She added that it is through the support of the funders that the incubator is able to support SMMEs.
“Our partnership with the KZN Film Commission allows for support in media projects. While our partnership with Ray Nkonyeni Municipality contributes to the creation of jobs, economic growth, and the creation of sustainable businesses,” said Moolla.
Representatives from the Technology Innovative Agency, National Youth Development Agency, South African Revenue Service, Small Enterprise Development Agency, Small Enterprise Finance Agency, and the KZN Film Commission attended the event.
Meanwhile, SMMEs such as Mzansi Smart TV, N Designs, and more were part of the “Connect With My Biz” event.
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