​​The City of Johannesburg's Department of Economic Development is calling on entrepreneurs and small businesses to partner with the City to drive economic growth, expand market access and create sustainable jobs. The call was made at the Johannesburg Business Connect Breakfast, hosted at JCCI House on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, in collaboration with Standard Bank South Africa (SBSA) and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).

The initiative aims to connect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with growth opportunities, financial support and strategic partnerships to strengthen Johannesburg's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Director of Economic Development, Benji Seitlhamo reaffirmed the City's commitment to fostering a competitive, investment-friendly and inclusive economy through collaboration between government and the private sector.

“Economic growth is strongest when government and business work together towards a shared objective: building a competitive, investment-friendly city that generates sustainable jobs. Business confidence is built not only on vision, but on delivery, and we recognise the importance of being responsive and coordinated in addressing obstacles to growth," said Seitlhamo.

JCCI President Caren Sutherns emphasised the importance of long-standing partnerships in strengthening SME development, improving access to markets and connecting local businesses to international opportunities.

“We value our collaboration with both the bank and the City of Johannesburg. Our shared commitment is to create an environment in which businesses can thrive, grow and contribute to economic development and job creation," said Sutherns.

Representing Standard Bank South Africa, Lesiba Matladi, Senior Manager: Enterprise and Supplier Development, stressed that small businesses require more than funding to grow. She said partnerships that connect entrepreneurs to customers, markets and financial solutions are essential to building sustainable enterprises.

“SMEs are critical to economic growth and job creation, but support can be fragmented and difficult to access. Through partnerships with organisations such as JCCI and the City of Johannesburg, we want to help businesses access opportunities, develop their markets and obtain the support they need to grow," said Matladi.

Young entrepreneur Isabela Pereira, founder and chief executive officer of SheFitz, a women's wellness and activewear brand set to launch in 2026, highlighted the value of business networking and exposure to development opportunities.

She said engagements such as the Johannesburg Business Connect Breakfast give emerging entrepreneurs an opportunity to learn from experienced business leaders, understand available support and build relationships that can help move their businesses forward. SMEs interested in partnering with the city are encouraged to contact the Department of Economic Development via Patson Khosa at Patsonk@joburg.org.za.

Written by Zingiswa Mndayi
21/10/2026

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