SME South Africa has officially launched their upcoming SME Funding Summit, accompanied by strong media presence.
On a sunny Tuesday, April 15th 2025, I had the privilege of attending a landmark event at the SME South Africa premises in Roodepoort, Johannesburg - the inaugural SME Funding Summit. As a seasoned magazine editor accustomed to countless business gatherings - I must say, this was more than just another event. It marked a pivotal moment in our entrepreneurial landscape.
Velly Bosega, founder and CEO of SME South Africa, opened the summit with an inspiring and powerful reflection on his journey as an entrepreneur - a road less paved, starting long before he officially ran and formalised his business in 2012. He took us through his trials, the lack of support in his formative years, and his mission to now build a platform that addresses exactly what he never had. His words were not just motivational, they were a call to action for all stakeholders in the SME space.
The room was buzzing with energy from various media houses, who came with excitement and ready to spread the word about the launch and the main event happening on the 12th of June, 2025. Notable partners present included Brewers Academy, Old Mutual and Source Fin, all pledging to pour resources, knowledge, and networks into ensuring this Summit won’t be a once-off initiative but a continuous catalyst for transformation.
Gcina Madonsela, the ever-passionate Business Development Executive at SME South Africa, carried that baton with grace and insight. Her address was a highlight, she paid tribute to the partners investing in SME growth and delivered a presentation that underscored the true economic might of South Africa’s SMEs. She didn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths either, lack of access to funding, systemic barriers, and outdated perceptions that continue to stifle growth. Her optimism, however, was grounded in data - data collected through SME South Africa’s smart, data-driven platform, which pinpoints who, how and where support is needed most.
The SME Funding Summit, as Gcina rightly pointed out, is not just about networking or keynote speeches, it is about empowerment. It is a strategic intervention to equip entrepreneurs with the tools they need to create sustainable impact.
Another standout moment came from Omega Fumba, who eloquently detailed the ripple effect this Summit aims to create. She framed the conversation beyond job creation, focusing instead on accessibility, inclusion, and affordability. According to Omega, this summit breaks down financial and geographic barriers, inviting entrepreneurs from all walks of life to the table.
Before wrapping up - we were also introduced to Tech Africa, a bold and timely publication launched under the SME South Africa banner. Presented by Lungile Msomi, the Head of Editor, this platform is set to chronicle Africa’s tech future - giving voice to the disruptors and innovators often overlooked in mainstream media.
I must say that in my years in publishing and attending high-profile business forums, this summit stood out for one reason - its authenticity. There was no corporate jargon, no fluff. Just raw truth, practical solutions, and a unified commitment to see South Africa’s SMEs thrive.
I can confirm now that the SME Funding Summit media launch wasn’t a full stop. It was a comma, the beginning of a compelling new chapter. And as a publication invested in telling real business stories, we’ll be watching, reporting, and supporting every step of the way.