South African Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams announced the hosting of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+Africa) from March 13-14, 2024, in Cape Town. This significant event, a partnership between the Department of Small Business Development, 22 on Sloane, and various other public and private sector stakeholders, aims to propel entrepreneurial activity across the continent.
GEC+Africa 2024 promises to be a melting pot for over 1,500 delegates from more than 50 African nations, including startups, SMMEs, investors, policymakers, and organizations championing entrepreneurship in business development. The congress’s agenda is to foster the growth of innovative startups and SMMEs, create job opportunities, establish market linkages, and attract a credible global investor pipeline to invest in African business and enterprises. Furthermore, the event seeks to establish a strong GEN-affiliated organization in each African country to bolster and strengthen its entrepreneurship ecosystem.
The congress will not only serve as a platform to highlight the progress South Africa has made in cultivating successful entrepreneurs but also showcase its mature startup ecosystem, supported by robust institutions. The Department of Small Business Development is committed to creating an enabling environment for small enterprise growth and enhancing the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The GEC+Africa 2024 will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, starting at 9:00 AM on both days. This gathering is expected to showcase the significant strides made in promoting business and entrepreneurship as a vehicle for economic growth and access to better life opportunities across Africa.
Members of the media wishing to cover this pivotal event are invited to confirm their attendance, highlighting the collective effort to advance entrepreneurial activity on the continent. As the countdown begins, Cape Town prepares to welcome thought leaders, founders, and practitioners who are part of the global movement, making it easier for anyone, anywhere, to start and scale a business.
