Alex Chamber of Commerce boosts support to small businesses

Alex small businesses were recently handed a lifeline on their doorstep by the Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership the Joburg City Council’s Region E.

This at an all-day Small Medium and Micro Enterprises’ (SMME’s) Access to Information and Opportunities Open Exhibition event held at the Altrec Sports Complex. The occasion provided a platform for aspiring and small entrepreneurs to seek advice from sponsorship and mentoring agencies on business-related information and support.

The agencies included the Department of Small Enterprises, Small Enterprise Finance Agency, Gauteng Enterprise Propeller, Industrial Development Corporation, law firm Bowman Gilfillan, Discovery, Gauteng Enterprise Propeller, National Youth Development Agency and Khuphulani Training Institute.

The inaugural event was hailed as a success by Nomakhaya Mahlaule of the Chamber of Commerce. Mahlaule said it would be held annually because of its value in helping to grow the township’s economy, profile local business and stimulate relationships with business development and support agencies keen to integrate small businesses into the city’s and province’s mainstream economy.

“Ninety percent of invited exhibitors turned up and were inundated with relevant queries from small businesses on business registration, financing and business operational issues as well as legal support. Over 70 SMMEs attended which will bolster the chamber’s resolve to conduct the event annually with more exhibitors,”Mahlaule said.

Commending the event, representatives of Bowman Gilfillan said it provided their pro bono and corporate social investment units an opportunity to provide SMMEs, business-related legal advisory services like business registrations, commercial service and shareholder agreements and on contractual issues.

The National Youth Development Agency representatives advised SMMEs on enterprise development, co-operatives, job preparedness and grant opportunities.

The Gauteng Enterprise Propeller and Small Enterprise Finance Agency advised them on grants and loans, while other agencies supported them on a range of business development strategies, mentoring and sustainability support.

A local support agency, Leaders and Champions, displayed a game of chess which Mahlaule said was necessary for a healthy mind and body, saying it helped businesses to develop and maintain a positive mindset. She also urged chamber members to participate in next year’s event.

Details : Galxcoc 011 440 7887.