Top three small businesses named at Bellville Business Expo

The top 3 small businesses announced at the Bellville Business Expo will receive personalised business mentorship from experts.

The two-day expo, organised by the Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) non-profit organisation, took place on Tuesday, October 28, and Wednesday, October 29. 

The winning business, from Rondebosch, provides an all-in-one management system and platform for food businesses, including a Point of Sale (POS) system, a vendor app, and an online store.

Sodieq Barendse, the chief executive officer, said: “For us, this achievement represents far more than an award — it’s a meaningful validation that our vision and impact have been seen and valued. To have this vision acknowledged by such a distinguished panel of business leaders and mentors is truly an honour.”

A clothing manufacturer from Elsies River took second place, while third place was a waste management and recycling service operating in Southfield.

Carmy Davis of the clothing manufacturer said that winning second place was an indication that she is on the right track.

“This programme not only offered the prize, but helped me to gain more confidence in the business that I am building. We had to present to the judges who knew the industries, and it becomes a shock if you don't know your business, your numbers — you would be shredded to pieces,” she said.  

The project manager at the waste management and recycling business, Cazri Jonson, said: “ The recognition reflected the team’s resilience and commitment to building a sustainable recycling business from small beginnings. The programme provided valuable exposure, credible connections, and opportunities to expand the company’s impact across the Cape Town region.“

The GTP supports small businesses through the Bellville Connect Level Up Series, an eight-week business development programme designed to link local entrepreneurs with experts, funders, and potential customers.

The programme combines in-person and online sessions and accepts businesses operating for at least two years in the greater Bellville area.

Eligible participants also have to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and innovation, an annual turnover of at least R250 000, and a drive to scale their businesses. 

Over 70 businesses applied to join the programme this year, and about 36 businesses were selected to take part, starting from August.

Participants benefited from expert-led workshops, individual mentorship, and support to help them strengthen their business models, enhance their market readiness, and prepare to pitch to potential investors.

The programme culminated in a live pitch event on Tuesday, October 21, where judges selected the Top 5 businesses from 10 that pitched. 

This pitch event was followed by the Bellville Business Expo at the Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, where twenty-one businesses from the programme were offered an opportunity to showcase their products, and also where the top three businesses were announced.

Nasmera Buckus, chief operations officer at the GTP said: “Our goal is to create meaningful, long-term opportunities for small businesses. This year reflected the growing appetite for sustainability-led innovation among local businesses.”