Entrepreneurs network at business fair

First-time exhibitors said the fair was beneficial to them.

Siphiwe Nkosi (left) and Onica Baloyi of Gift Emporiums showcase their products.

Budding small business owners from the South Coast exhibited their merchandise at the annual Ray Nkonyeni Municipality Mayoral Business Fair 2023 at Southcoast Mall last week.

Held over two days, the fair aimed to help SMMEs to grow their businesses, showcase products, as well as build relationships.

Farishta Suthurugum exhibits ASR Studio books.

Ray Nkonyeni spokesperson, Simon April said 47 exhibitors from various sectors were part of the fair.

“It gave SMMEs and other small businesses options to engage government departments and institutions to learn about opportunities available, including funding. It also provided a platform for SMMEs to engage with the local and regional corporate sector to potentially partner, and thus create real business linkages and retention, “added April

With their display of tasty baked goods are Yolanda Ngcobo (left) and Ntombi Mbhele.

He said there were three focus areas in which capacity enhancement for SMMEs were considered and presenters sourced.

“The SMMEs were capacitated in various skills such as leveraging and using digital platforms for marketing purposes, urging businesses to essentially consider the available digital platforms to market their businesses; creation of strong brands through innovation – through a masterclass. They were advised on how to utilise innovation to create stand-out brands and on financial management.

First time exhibitors Nonsindiso Ncama (left) and Nokukhanya Dube.

April said it is a well-known fact that apart from funding availability, SMMEs often struggle to manage their finances, hence capacity in this area had to be considered.

Masterclasses were conducted by various speakers on a variety of topics.
Joseph Mngenela spoke on ‘building a strong brand’ and ‘innovation and creativity’ while Thobile Tyiso focused on financial management.

“If you are unable to handle your finances, your business will not prosper. Being equipped with the necessary skills such as keeping records of expenses and profits make it easier to measure your success,” said Tyiso.

Gamalakhe wall clock maker Sandile Mthembu (left) with Zamo Ndlovu.

Nokukhanya Dube of Carrot House Bakery said it was her first time exhibiting at the fair, and that she was grateful for the opportunity. “I showcased my products and I hope my business grows from here on.”

She said that the fair was beneficial as she learnt about various funding opportunities from the banks for young entrepreneurs.