Vodacom Launches First SME Summit to Empower South African Small Businesses

Telecommunications leader Vodacom has unveiled a pioneering initiative, the inaugural Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) Summit, titled #SMEThriveSummit. This strategic endeavor is designed to provide pragmatic resources, knowledge-sharing, and networking opportunities to invigorate local small businesses, fostering growth within the South African economy.

The event’s agenda includes informative sessions, interactive exhibitions, keynote presentations, live master classes, and panel discussions, all aimed at fostering knowledge exchange and collaborative engagement among SMEs.

Buhle Vilakazi, Executive Head of Small to Medium-sized Enterprise at Vodacom South Africa, underscored the pivotal role SMEs play in the nation’s economy. He emphasised that the #SMEThriveSummit aims to facilitate tangible financial transformation and amplify SMEs’ agency in steering their businesses towards success.

Industry leaders and domain experts will take the stage, imparting practical strategies across topics such as finance access, digital marketing tools, and cybersecurity.

Vilakazi issued a call for SME proprietors to engage in partnership with Vodacom to co-create tailored solutions for their unique challenges. With an unwavering dedication to SME growth, a versatile portfolio spanning financial services and digital solutions, and a global footprint, Vodacom positions itself as a potent ally in unlocking the latent potential within these enterprises.

The #SMEThriveSummit offers both physical and virtual participation options, ensuring inclusivity and convenience for a diverse array of stakeholders.

Participating in the summit equips SMEs with ideas, tools, and technological levers for enterprise growth. Two entrepreneurs stand to secure an intensive full-day business consultation with Vodacom South Africa’s CEO, Sitho Mdlalose, and key executives, alongside a substantial cash injection of R50,000 for business expansion. Additional prizes include cutting-edge business technologies, digital marketing credits, and point-of-sale devices.

Scheduled for August 18th at Vodacom World, the #SMEThriveSummit extends an inclusive embrace to SME proprietors, aspiring entrepreneurs, and stakeholders invested in small business success.

To secure a place at this transformative gathering, interested parties can register via the dedicated SME Thrive Summit portal.

For comprehensive insights into the summit’s agenda, visit the official Vodacom Business website and navigate to the dedicated SME Thrive Summit section.

 

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