eThekwini Municipality is set to host the North Regional Durban Business Fair from March 28 to 30 at Bridge City Shopping Centre in KwaMashu, north of Durban.

The event will feature over 150 businesses showcasing their products and services for the 2024/25 financial year.

In a statement released to the media on Monday, the municipality said the fair aims to foster networking, business growth, and collaboration.

"The fair offers a platform for networking, business growth, empowerment, and collaboration. Exhibitors will have opportunities to engage with potential customers, government and municipal entities, financial institutions, and fellow entrepreneurs.

"Attendees can also participate in inspiring business seminars, gaining firsthand insights from industry leaders and private and public agencies. The exhibition will run simultaneously with the two," the municipality said.

One of the event’s highlights is the Construction Development Indaba on March 28, which will bring together established companies, agencies, and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities for emerging businesses in the construction and development sectors.

"The Construction Development Indaba segment will kick off the exhibition on 28 March, bringing together established companies, agencies, and entrepreneurs to present opportunities for emerging businesses. Topics will include how small, medium, and micro enterprises can leverage artificial intelligence."

The municipality added that the Indaba will also discuss the role of artificial intelligence in the sector and provide guidance on how SMEs can engage in inner-city regeneration and property development.

Another key focus area of the event is women's economic empowerment.

"The Women's Economic Empowerment Engagement will convene prominent South African businesswomen to share insights on how women can uplift each other through mentorship, strategic networking, and collaborative initiatives.

"The North Regional Durban Business Fair is a key initiative of the eThekwini Municipality to promote economic growth and development in the region. We are excited to provide a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services, network, and and collaborate"

IOL Business