GovTech summit to focus on small business

Friday, October 21, 2016

Pretoria – The upcoming Government Technology (GovTech) Conference will be used to focus attention on small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) development.

This is in line with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) board’s own drive to develop SMMEs in the South African information and communications technology (ICT) industry.

“There has been limited involvement of SMMEs in the ICT industry due to the very high barriers to entry, and we have dedicated [a lot of] time facilitating more small company involvement in the industry.

“This includes negotiating with the original equipment manufacturers to help us overcome stumbling blocks, such as high capital outlays,” SITA’s acting chairperson Zukile Nomvete said.

The conference will start on 30 October and will commence with an Executive Leadership Engagement session dedicated to SMME development.

Nomvete said GovTech has always provided important visibility for local SMMEs, placing them in direct contact with decision makers and procurement officers attending the event.

SITA’s commitment to SMME development will also be reflected by the number of pertinent topics at GovTech 2016 from 1 - 2 November, which are dedicated to these companies.

Successful projects initiated by SMMEs will also be showcased, providing inspiration and allowing others to learn from these experiences.

Nomvete said SMMEs also enjoy special packages and space at the exhibition hall at the event.

For more details on the conference and how to register, visit https://www.govtech.co.za/. – SAnews.gov.za