Empowering Small Businesses with Cape Town’s Smart Supplier Programme

by
1 min read
s m

Small businesses face numerous challenges in today’s world, but Cape Town’s Smart Supplier Programme provides a beacon of hope. The programme aims to nurture small businesses and contribute to the city’s economic growth. The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, recently joined small business leaders to celebrate their participation in the seventh edition of the programme, a collaboration between the City and Smart Procurement World.

Equipping Small Businesses with Knowledge and Skills

The Smart Supplier Programme enrols 150 vendors in its first phase and addresses various aspects of business development. From this pool, 40 vendors are selected and granted access to markets, buyers, and new opportunities. The programme aims to equip small businesses with knowledge and skills to overcome obstacles that could hinder their growth.

Private Sector Collaboration Vital for Economic Growth

Alderman Vos stressed the importance of small businesses in economic growth, innovation, and job creation. He urged the private sector to enhance its efforts to collaborate with small businesses to unlock vast potential for procuring opportunities. The private sector spends three times more on procurement than the public sector, making collaboration vital for economic growth.

Supporting Entrepreneurs for Business Growth

Cape Town’s economic prosperity depends on its citizens, with small business owners forming crucial links in the city’s economic chain. The Smart Supplier Programme serves as a platform for big businesses to engage with small businesses and stakeholders regarding procurement requirements and identified constraints. The programme is part of the City’s broader efforts to support entrepreneurs by providing the necessary resources to expand their businesses.

Business Helpdesk Offers Workshops and Online Training

The Business Helpdesk organises several workshops, including the weekly Supplier Matters Day. It also runs a skills development platform for the building industry that offers monthly construction training workshops for contractors. For those unable to attend in-person workshops, the helpdesk offers online training. Alderman Vos highlighted Cape Town’s drive to become Africa’s most business-friendly city, citing the 279,000 new jobs created in the past year as evidence of their progress.

Registering for Development Programs

Entrepreneurs interested in participating in development programs can register on the Invest Cape Town website. Free Wi-Fi access is available in 100 City-run buildings and public libraries, where SmartCape services are available for data-free access to virtual sessions. The Business Hub team is also reachable via email or phone for business-related inquiries.

Fostering Growth and Sustainable Development

The Smart Supplier Programme is an essential resource for Cape Town’s small businesses, fostering their growth and contributing to the city’s economic vitality. By empowering these entrepreneurs to succeed, the programme enhances the city’s economy, promotes innovation, job creation, and sustainable development while strengthening the links in Cape Town’s economic chain.

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.

w h
Previous Story

Public Service Commission Takes Action to Protect Whistleblowers in South Africa

s o
Next Story

President Ramaphosa’s Upholding of Due Process in Adv. Mkhwebane’s Suspension

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.