Business fair a boost for SMMEs

It’s that time of the year again – the Durban Business Fair (DBF) will be coming up next month. This year marks the 25th year of building sustainable businesses – the fair was started in 1998 by the eThekwini Municipality. It is the municipality’s signature business exhibition and is central to accelerating the development of SMMEs (Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises).

Among the key achievements of the fair is connecting businesses to opportunities and contributing to job creation. The 25th DBF will be held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) and the Durban Exhibition Centre from September 19 to 24.

This year’s fair promises to be bigger and better, featuring more opportunities for business connections and linkages. The six days will encompass an exhibition, empowerment engagements, innovation activities, business pitch competitions and much more, said eThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

He said the DBF platform is one of many economic development programmes the city has to ensure that small and medium businesses remain active and are included in the radical economic participation of Durban’s economy. He said the DBF has positively impacted businesses over the past 24 years and has been a platform for SMMEs to showcase what their businesses have to offer.

Municipal spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, added that the DBF draws businesses from in and around the city. He said the event also gives up-and-coming SMMEss the opportunity to network and build a sustainable business.

“A concerted effort has been made by the municipality to grow the fair over the past two and a half decades. This year’s DBF promises to be spectacular as we celebrate our 25th year milestone. We will be featuring more businesses and encompassing many empowerment and development opportunities,” said Mr Mayisela.