Cape Town Supports Furniture Entrepreneurs

by
1 min read
f

Cape Town has announced its renewed support for young furniture entrepreneurs by extending funding for the Furniture Light Manufacturing Enterprise Development Programme. The program, in collaboration with the [South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI)](https://capetown.today/national-furniture-design-competition-showcases-south-african-talent), offers technical training, business guidance, and mentorship support to micro-enterprises in the furniture manufacturing industry.

Success Stories and Impact

The program has had a significant impact on its beneficiaries, with some engaging with buyers and securing contracts with prominent furniture brands. Last year, nearly 22,000 visitors attended Decorex, a prestigious design event in Cape Town, providing an excellent platform for these entrepreneurs to showcase their skills and products.

Revitalizing the Industry

South Africa’s furniture manufacturing industry is essential to the country’s manufacturing GDP, accounting for 1.2% in 2020. However, the sector has faced a downturn in recent years, with a 46% decline in exports between 2002 and 2018. The City of Cape Town recognizes the need to revitalize the industry and has invested in programs like the SAFI partnership, which aim to rebuild manufacturing from the ground up.

Positive Impact for Participants

The program not only benefits entrepreneurs but has also led to tertiary institutions approaching some participants for training the next generation in furniture making. The combination of practical skills and academic training will foster a dynamic and competitive industry.

Testimonials

Entrepreneurs Abrahams and Richard Lovett credit the program for turning their business vision into reality and significantly influencing their mindset. The program’s mentoring is integral to their continued success, as the lessons learned can be applied repeatedly in the future.

Commitment to Fostering Local Talent

The City of Cape Town’s commitment to supporting its furniture entrepreneurs highlights its dedication to nurturing local talent and revitalizing a once-thriving industry. By investing in the SAFI partnership and the Furniture Light Manufacturing Enterprise Development Programme, Cape Town is taking the necessary steps to create employment opportunities and reinforce its position as a hub of creativity and innovation.

Power of Collaborative Efforts

The cooperation between Cape Town and SAFI is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in achieving shared goals. As the program continues to aid young entrepreneurs in the development of their businesses, the furniture manufacturing industry in South Africa can look forward to a brighter future filled with creativity, innovation, and success.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

k o
Previous Story

Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant Delays Pose Threats to Western Cape’s Energy Supply

rugby championship world cup
Next Story

The Decisive Rugby Championship: South Africa’s Springboks Face Off Against Argentina for a Shot at the World Cup

Latest from Blog

south africa starlink

South Africa Awaits Starlink’s Arrival: Navigating Regulatory Challenges Towards Digital Revolution

South Africa is eagerly anticipating the arrival of Elon Musk’s Starlink project, which aims to revolutionize internet accessibility in rural and secluded regions. However, regulatory hurdles have hindered its entry into the country. South Africa’s Electronic Communication Act requires that any communications license holder must be 30% owned by historically disadvantaged groups, which could pose a significant hindrance to Starlink’s application process. Recent events suggest potential progress, but it remains to be seen if Starlink can navigate regulatory constraints and bring about a new era of connectivity in South Africa.

british airways global connectivity

Boosting Global Connectivity: British Airways Revamps London-Cape Town Route

British Airways is increasing its flight frequency to Cape Town, with an extra daily flight set to launch by October 2024, aiming to meet the demand from international travelers and improve global connectivity. The airline plans to increase the total weekly flights between Cape Town and London Heathrow to 21 by January 2025, reflecting its dedication to enhancing the travel experience and capitalizing on the commercial prospects of the route. This strategic adjustment promises to stimulate the local economy, elevate Cape Town as a toptier destination, and revolutionize the global aviation landscape.

paralympics south african athletes

An Unforgettable Day at the Paralympics: Mpumelelo Mhlongo, Collen Mahlalela, and Simone Kruger Make History

South African Paralympic athletes Mpumelelo Mhlongo, Collen Mahlalela, Christian Sadie, and Simone Kruger made history at the Paralympics with their outstanding performances. Mhlongo set a new T44 world record while securing a bronze medal, Mahlalela exhibited resilience in the T47 men’s 400m race, Sadie established a new African record in the S7 men’s 50m butterfly final, and Kruger won the gold medal in the F38 discus, breaking her own world record. These athletes’ remarkable achievements serve as a testament to their unwavering spirit and inspire us to push beyond our limitations.

green economy entrepreneurship

Acclaiming the Champions of Green Progress: A Tribute to 2024 GreenPitch Challenge Achievers

The GreenPitch Challenge in Cape Town is more than just a contest, it’s a launchpad for ecofocused innovation. Entrepreneurs are crucial to the success of the green economy, generating concepts and inventions that can change lives and create employment opportunities. Dragonfly, Aero Greens, and Silence SA were the winners of the 2024 GreenPitch Challenge, each demonstrating a remarkable commitment to green economic principles. The future of green innovation looks positive thanks to the resources provided by GreenCape, who are steering Cape Town towards a more resilient and ecoaware future.

fuel prices south africa

A Sigh of Relief: The Downward Slope of Fuel Prices in South Africa Amid Economic Uncertainty

Good news for South African consumers as fuel prices have dropped unexpectedly due to the convergence of the international oil price and the strength of the rand against the US dollar. Petrol prices have dropped by 92 cents per litre and diesel prices by between 79 and 107 cents per litre. This reduction in fuel prices could result in significant savings for the average consumer during this phase of economic uncertainty.