The City’s Opportunity Centre at the Joburg Market, in collaboration with University of Johannesburg’s Entrepreneurship Department, is launching an online store for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to help grow their businesses and create more jobs in their communities. The launch will take place on Friday, 14 April 2023, at Joburg Market Opportunity Centre, 4 Fortune Street, City Deep.
SMMEs and operating businesses within jurisdiction of the City of Johannesburg are invited to explore and seize the opportunity to increase sales and revenue for themselves.
The event in line with the City’s objective to create an environment where entrepreneurs and small businesses can thrive through the support of public-private partnerships.
The online store will afford the attendees a platform to increase business visibility and reach for their products.
Akona Bovula, the manager of the Opportunity Centre at the Joburg Market, says the move is aimed at supporting and growing SMMEs in the City of Johannesburg.
“We have taken steps to expand possible opportunities for SMMEs in the City. This platform will support local businesses and help curb the high unemployment in our country. With the right support, SMMEs can boost economic growth within the City and in the country,” says Bovula.
Lawrence Seseni, the University of Johannesburg’s Faculty Adviser in the Department of Business Management, notes that the virtual stores are created to solve the challenges that SMMEs face in accessing customers beyond their physical location and helping them take advantage of the opportunities presented by e-commerce.
“Khaya virtual store is an online store is targeted at SMMEs to showcase and sell their products to customers across the country and encourages the growth of local industries and helps to promote local businesses.
“The online platform also provides small businesses with access to a range of resources and tools to help them manage their online stores effectively,” says Seseni.
The event is free of charge and proceedings will kick off at 9am and end at 2pm. Those interested in attending may RSVP to 083 702 9712.
Written by Getrude Mamabolo
12/04/2023