The Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA), a pivotal organization in South Africa’s township and rural entrepreneurial landscape, proudly announces the 6th Annual Township Economy Summit, coupled with the inaugural Township Economy Awards this year.
Over the past nine years, TEA has directly empowered more than 8,000 township entrepreneurs, establishing a national presence across most South African townships.
This year’s two-day summit and awards ceremony promise to be the most impactful yet, celebrating innovation, resilience, and progress within South Africa’s vibrant township economy.
In addition to the upcoming summit, TEA is thrilled to announce its recent win of the Social Impact Award at the EPF Tech Awards, held this past weekend.
This recognition highlights TEA’s dedication to fostering small business growth within townships.
The organization remains committed to building an inclusive township economy by connecting government, corporate partners, and local entrepreneurs in ways that drive mutual benefit and support long-term economic growth.
Event Details:
•Summit Dates: November 21-22, 2024
•Awards Ceremony Date: November 23, 2024
•Location: Central Tembisa, Gauteng
Championing the Township Economy
The Township Economy Summit aims to address the critical need for an inclusive, thriving economic future in South Africa by focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities within the township sector.
Gathering township entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and government officials, the summit will explore practical strategies to unlock the full potential of a sector valued at over R900 billion.
Key objectives include creating opportunities, sharing vital information, and fostering networks.
Key industries to be highlighted during the summit include:
1.Green Economy: Exploring sustainable practices and emerging opportunities for township entrepreneurs in this growing sector.
2.Manufacturing: Discussing pathways to establish and scale manufacturing businesses within townships.
3.Wholesale & Retail: Identifying market entry points and growth avenues for township businesses.
4.Automotive Industry: Investigating opportunities in vehicle repairs, parts supply, and sales.
5.Construction: Addressing infrastructure and building projects within the township context.
6.ICT: Exploring how technology, digital payments, e-commerce, and platform businesses can empower small township enterprises.
Honoring Township Excellence
The Township Economy Awards will celebrate exceptional township entrepreneurs who drive economic growth and uplift their communities.
These awards aim to highlight their achievements, inspire future innovators, and provide new development opportunities.
Award categories include Innovation in Manufacturing, Green Business of the Year, and Youth Entrepreneur of the Year.
“We are immensely proud to host the 6th Annual Township Economy Awards & Summit, an event that not only celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of our township communities but also catalyzes the future of our economy,” said Bulelani Balabala, Founder of the Township Entrepreneurs Alliance.
Join Us
Attendance at the summit is free, but space is limited.
Township entrepreneurs, stakeholders, and community leaders are encouraged to register early to secure their place at this transformative event.
Exhibitor Opportunities
Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products and services to over 1,000 township entrepreneurs and key stakeholders.
Options include:
•Township Businesses: R600 per stall (including VAT), with a table, tablecloth, two chairs, and a POS device for the two-day summit.
•Corporate and Government Exhibitors: Customized packages are available upon request.
Awards Ceremony
The Awards Ceremony on November 23, 2024, will honor standout township entrepreneurs across several categories.
Tickets for the ceremony, starting at R500, will be available soon.
Township businesses are encouraged to apply and showcase their community impact and innovation.
Register now to be part of this inspiring event and help shape the future of South Africa’s township economy.
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