Meet the Experts at the SME SA Growth Pod

At this year’s Funding Summit, we’re proud to unveil the SME South Africa Growth Pod, a space designed to drive your business forward. Drawing inspiration from the trusted SME Advice platform, the Growth Pod brings expert business advice directly to you in a dynamic face-to-face setting.

At the Growth Pod, attendees will have exclusive access to one-on-one consultations with seasoned industry professionals who are eager to help our small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) founders with any business challenges.

Whether you are a start-up founder refining your business plan, a growing enterprise exploring funding opportunities, or an established owner seeking innovative strategies, our experts are ready to provide tailored insights that meet the unique needs of our SMEs.

Here’s what to expect from the SME South Africa Growth Pod:

• Expert consultations: Engage with our experts who specialise in key areas such as funding strategies, marketing innovation, legal compliance and operational efficiencies. Gain practical advice that is immediately applicable to your business challenges.
• Tailored guidance: Receive tailored advice that addresses the specifics of your industry, stage of business and immediate concerns – ensuring that every piece of guidance is relevant, actionable and impactful.
• Real-time problem solving: Attendees can bring any pressing business questions and walk away with clear, strategic solutions designed to unlock their next level of success.

The Growth Pod is more than just an advice booth; it’s a comprehensive business ‘accelerator’ that bridges the gap between theory and practice. By merging the digital expertise of SME Advice with the immediacy of face-to-face interactions, we are equipping our SMEs with the tools, insights, and confidence to navigate the ever-evolving business landscape.

Elvis Sekhaolelo is heading up the Growth Pod. Skhaolelo is an impact investor and enterprise supplier development (ESD) practitioner with over eleven years of experience in developing impact ecosystems within South Africa’s township and rural economies.

These ecosystems contribute to sustainable models and processes that support local industries and value chains. He is the founding CEO of eKasi Entrepreneurs Movement, a national public benefit organisation dedicated to empowering, developing, and supporting SMMEs in townships and rural villages.

Additionally, he serves as the impact investor and business development manager at Township IMPACT Investments, an investment company focused on building infrastructure that enables SMMEs to thrive within their communities. Through these ventures, Sekhaolelo leverages his academic background and expertise to create positive social and economic outcomes for underserved populations.

The Growth Pod is an opportunity to connect, learn and innovate- making it a must-visit destination at the SME South Africa’s Funding Summit. Embrace the chance to harness expert knowledge spark new ideas and ignite your business growth.

This is your chance to speak to a business growth expert in person – Grab your ticket to the Funding Summit before they are sold out.