City-backed Bellville Business Expo levels up SMMEs
Northern suburbs residents turned out this week to engage with select small businesses taking part in the annual Bellville Business Expo, held at Tyger Valley Shopping Centre. Read more below:
The City of Cape Town allocates funding to the Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) to run targeted programmes that drive economic growth and urban renewal in Bellville, including initiatives such as the Bellville Business Expo. This year’s event spotlighted enterprises that are advancing sustainable business practices, expanding market access, and contributing to local development.
‘Bellville is the second-largest office node in the metro (behind the Cape Town CBD). It is home to the headquarters of some of the biggest companies in the country. Through events such as the Bellville Business Expo, we’re turning the spotlight on smaller and emerging enterprises. This is an opportunity for them to showcase their products and services, network across industries with new clients, and gain valuable insights from seasoned business leaders,’ said Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.
The expo was preceded by the Level Up Series, a business development programme run by the GTP and funded by the City. This eight-week hybrid initiative included expert-led workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and tailored support to help SMMEs strengthen their business models, enhance market readiness, and prepare to pitch to potential partners and investors.
‘It’s so important that small businesses are given tangible support that delivers results, not just through exposure at the expo, but in the long term as they grow and create jobs. The City is proud to back the GTP in delivering initiatives that provide entrepreneurs with meaningful opportunities.
‘For me, the real value of these initiatives lies where the rubber meets the road, in the combination of place-making and business development efforts that create favourable conditions for enterprises to establish themselves in Bellville. This is how we attract investment, unlock innovation, and make the area a breeding ground for new ideas and opportunities,’ said Alderman Vos.
