Garden Route Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024 – A resounding Success
In the photo are some of the attendees of the Global Entrepreneurship Week
The George Municipality proudly hosted the second annual Garden Route Global Entrepreneurship Week (GR-GEW) from 18 to 23 November 2024 at the George Civic Centre. Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2023, which drew over 200 SMMEs from across the Garden Route, the 2024 event showcased the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.
Organised in collaboration with Suff Academy, George Municipality (LED), Garden Route District Municipality, University of South Africa (Unisa), National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), National Development Agency (NDA), Government Information Communication Systems (GCIS), and the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), the week-long event aimed to inspire innovation, support small businesses, and catalyse economic growth in the region.
Building One Global Entrepreneurship Ecosystem
The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) operates programs in over 200 countries to simplify the process of starting and scaling businesses. Through cross-border collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers, and support organizations, GEN fosters ecosystems that create jobs, accelerate innovation, and strengthen economies. With its comprehensive global reach and tailored programs, GEN offers unparalleled access to knowledge, networks, and resources, ensuring alignment with the size, maturity, and uniqueness of each economy.
Objectives of GR-GEW 2024
The GR-GEW 2024 set out to:
• Inspire and empower entrepreneurs in the Garden Route region.
• Organize the entrepreneurship ecosystem and promote synergy among stakeholders.
• Provide a platform for networking and collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and key players.
• Showcase innovative ideas driving regional economic development.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange through workshops, panel discussions, and keynote sessions.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Day 1 (18 November 2024) – Opening Ceremony
The week began with an engaging opening ceremony attended by 120 stakeholders from the Garden Route. The 2024 theme, “Creating Entrepreneurial Communities, Removing Barriers & Welcoming All!” set the tone for the event.
Notable speakers included:
• Cllr Marlene Barnardt (MMC Planning and Development, George Municipality): Discussed the municipality’s role in fostering economic growth.
• Ald. Rosina Ruiters (MMC Planning and Economic Development, Garden Route District Municipality)
• Mr. John Peters (Chief Director, WC Department of Economic Development and Tourism)
• Prof. Annemarie Davis (Inhlanyelo Hub, Unisa): Delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship in driving regional transformation.
Day 2 (19 November 2024) – Academic Symposium
This day highlighted the role of academia in fostering entrepreneurship. Keynote speakers included experts from NMU, UWC, Unisa, and South Cape TVET College, who explored themes such as access to markets, funding for innovation, and supporting entrepreneurs through education. The symposium concluded with success stories from local entrepreneurs and a call to action from the LOC organizers.
Day 3 (20 November 2024) – Investment Readiness Masterclass
Entrepreneurs participated in speed networking, masterclass training, and a panel discussion hosted by the George Business Chamber. These sessions provided actionable tools to help businesses grow, attract investors, and navigate challenges.
Day 4 (21 November 2024) – Funding Readiness Masterclass
Nedbank led this day’s session, equipping entrepreneurs with strategies to position their businesses for funding and growth. Topics included business law, strategic planning, and access to markets, with a highlight being a coffee session with local leaders such as Ald. Andrew Stroebel and Cllr Marlene Barnardt.
Day 5 (22 November 2024) – Reimagining Township Economies
The focus shifted to unlocking the potential of township economies. Discussions covered projects like the Ilisolethu Node Development in Thembalethu and strategies for township economic development led by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
Day 6 (23 November 2024) – Business Breakfast and Closing Function
The final day featured a keynote address by Ms. Jeannine Van Straaten (Proudly South African) on building sustainable brands, localization, and market access. The breakfast provided a networking platform for entrepreneurs and stakeholders to forge meaningful connections.
A Call for Collaboration
The GR-GEW 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to organising the entrepreneurial ecosystem and fostering partnerships across the public and private sectors. The George Municipality invites all stakeholders to join future initiatives, ensuring continued support for entrepreneurs and unlocking economic opportunities in the region.
