The Bellville Business Expo recently took place at the University of Stellenbosch Business School’s Bellville Park Campus, showcasing an array of small businesses from various sectors. The event was organized by the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, in partnership with the Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP).
The Bellville Business Expo did not only showcase small businesses but also provided a platform for their growth. A four-week bootcamp preceded the expo, with the top 30 businesses selected to participate. All the costs for the selected businesses were covered, providing an invaluable learning experience for these entrepreneurs and a stepping stone toward success.
The expo featured public and private sector forums, information-sharing sessions, and opportunities for networking and collaboration among businesses, industry leaders, and community members. The inclusion of these forums aimed at fostering synergy among businesses, industry leaders, and community members.
The Bellville Central Business District (CBD) Business Retention and Expansion Study conducted in 2022 provided a backdrop for optimism throughout the expo. According to the study, 83% of businesses in Bellville were either stable in size or preparing for expansion. Moreover, over 80% of these businesses acknowledged the strategic location of Bellville as a significant advantage, a remarkable 30% increase since 2015.
The City’s commitment to nurturing economic growth is evident in the budget for 2023/24. Alderman Vos announced that nearly R200 million has been allocated to various programs designed to assist all segments of the economy, including work seekers, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and high-growth sectors. These programs include hosting expos like the Bellville Business Expo, the Business Helpdesk, the High Impact course, and the Smart Supplier program.
Alderman Vos emphasized the importance of small businesses, referring to them as “the engine of jobs, innovation, and investment potential.” He also lauded the collaboration between the City and industry leaders like the GTP, which demonstrates the combined efforts to unlock opportunities for communities across the entire metro, including Bellville.
The Bellville Business Expo serves as a testament to the growing economic potential of the region. It highlights both the ingenuity of local entrepreneurs and the City’s unwavering support for their growth. The event is a shining example of how collaboration, networking, and information sharing can foster an environment in which small businesses can thrive and contribute to the economic prosperity of the region.
While this may have been the first Bellville Business Expo, its success promises a bright future for similar events. Such events are poised to drive economic growth and provide an invaluable platform for the area’s burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit. The expo sets a precedent for continued collaboration and support for the small businesses that form the backbone of Bellville’s growing economy.
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