Strengthening Local Innovation Through Collaboration at the SME Growth Catalyst Forum
Proudly South African, in partnership with Nelson Mandela University's Innovation Office.
Driving Economic Growth Through Local Procurement
Proudly South African, in partnership with Nelson Mandela University's Innovation Office, recently hosted the SME Growth Catalyst Forum, a dynamic networking and capacity-building event aimed at driving economic growth and job creation through local procurement.
The forum brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and ecosystem stakeholders to explore opportunities for strengthening local supply chains and fostering greater collaboration across sectors. By creating a platform for meaningful engagement, the session highlighted the critical role that micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in building a resilient and inclusive economy.
Advancing Innovation in the Eastern Cape
Among the speakers was Propella Head, Masakhane Mlamla, who shared insights on the importance of strengthening the innovation ecosystem in the Eastern Cape to create an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive.
During his address, Mlamla emphasized that entrepreneurial success does not happen in isolation. Instead, it requires a supportive ecosystem that provides innovators with access to resources, mentorship, markets, funding opportunities, and strategic partnerships. Strengthening these support structures is essential to enabling entrepreneurs to develop sustainable businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation.
The Power of Collaboration
A key message from Mlamla's presentation was the importance of collaboration among ecosystem stakeholders. He highlighted the need for industry leaders, academia, government institutions, support organizations, and entrepreneurs to work together in creating opportunities for innovation and enterprise development.
By fostering stronger connections between different players in the ecosystem, entrepreneurs can gain access to the support and networks needed to scale their ventures and create lasting impact within their communities.
Supporting Entrepreneurial Growth Through the IYBA-SEED Project
The discussions at the forum align closely with the work being advanced through the IYBA-SEED Project, which focuses on strengthening ecosystem collaboration and supporting entrepreneurial growth across the Eastern Cape.
Through initiatives such as the IYBA-SEED Project, stakeholders are working collectively to build a more connected and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem—one that enables innovators and SMEs to access opportunities, overcome barriers, and contribute meaningfully to the province's economic development.
Building the Future Together
As Propella continues to champion innovation and entrepreneurship, events such as the SME Growth Catalyst Forum serve as important reminders that meaningful progress is achieved through collaboration.
Future-focused thinking is not individualistic. It is a way of thinking that recognizes innovation as both an economic driver and a social catalyst—creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and shaping a more sustainable future for all.
We are excited to continue collaborating with Proudly South African, Nelson Mandela University, the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA), the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Rapid Incubator, and all ecosystem stakeholders committed to supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening innovation across the Eastern Cape.
Together, we can build an ecosystem where innovation thrives, businesses grow, and communities prosper.