Joburg to host DEMO Africa conference

First launched in 2012 in Nairobi, DEMO Africa is one of the continent’s most-talked about start-up events. The conference will bring together a number of key stakeholders and decision makers in the innovation, entrepreneurial and investment sectors from across the globe to connect with selected African start-ups.

The two-day event has been called the launchpad for emerging technology and trends, and MMC for Economic Development Ruby Mathang stated that it will have positive outcomes for the city. It will create a multi-sectoral platform to help increase business exposure and the potential for start-ups with venture capital, investors, technology acquisition specialists, IT buyers and media from around the world attending the event.

The start-ups that have been pre-selected by DEMO Africa will receive mentoring, coaching and the opportunity to launch their products to a wide range of tech eco-systems that reflect and address the needs of the African continent.

“Joburg is attracting a wonderful variety of international events – from private gatherings such as the Miniaturist Festival to high-profile events like DEMO Africa. Encouraging tourism to Johannesburg by attracting large events is a powerful transformative tool that positively impacts on the entire value chain in the sector,” stated Mathang.

He added that drawing large international events such as DEMO Africa to Johannesburg had several positive spin-offs for the city, including the creation of job and business opportunities.

Some of the events scheduled to be staged in the city this year include:

• Breakbulk Africa Conference from 6 to 7 April
• Banking Commission Meeting from 4 to 7 April
• Africa-Middle East Conference of the Junior Chamber International from 4 to 6 May
• International Commission on Large Dams from 16 to 20 May
• HGA Global Forum on 16 June
• Conference of the International Law Association from 7 to 11 August.
• Details: www.demo-africa.com