Small Business Exhibition
Keynote Address & Panel Discussion
Mbawula Chat (Fireside)
20th & 21st November 2025
Thursday & Friday
Hospital View Park,Tembisa,
City of Ekurhuleni, Gauteng
Partners
Â
Â
Â
7th Annual
Township Economy Summit 2025
Inclusive Economic Future
We are thrilled to be hosting the Township Economy Summit and Exhibition 2025, marking the seventh annual gathering of township entrepreneurs. This two-day Summit is the premier event for township entrepreneurs, corporate South Africa and government to connect in an inclusive manner. We will be bringing together over 1,000 innovative township business owners from across the country. Over the course of this two-day Summit, it stands as the ultimate platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their products, exhibit their businesses, and engage in valuable networking opportunities.
The Summit is centered around the theme 'Inclusive Economic Future', where we will delve into how we can build a truly inclusive economy, focusing on six key sectors that are driving growth in our townships: Spaza Shop & Distribution, Kasi Tech & Digital Transformation, Green Economy, Backroom & Property Market, Manufacturing, Mobility & Logistics eKasi, Throughout the two days, we will feature industry leaders and black business pioneers who have significantly contributed to the development of small businesses within the township economy. These are individuals who have not only paved the way for others but have also built and sustained successful businesses themselves.
This Summit provides an exceptional opportunity for large corporates to engage meaningfully with township entrepreneurs. It's a platform where the demand meets supply, enabling those who are offering products, machinery, equipment, and services to connect with those who are in need of them. By creating these connections, we are actively working towards building an inclusive economy, one that thrives on shared knowledge, market access, and meaningful opportunities. Let’s come together and see what the future holds as we shape the landscape of our township economy.
Grand Finale
Kasi Pitching Challenge
Over 40 winners nationwide and R2 million distributed as a blend of cash and support through the Kasi Business Workshops.
TEA is proud to announce the Grand Finale of the Kasi Pitching Challenge 2025, which will take place during the 7th Annual Township Economy Summit. The Grand Finale will be open to nationwide participation.
An invite to apply to pitch will be sent two weeks before the summit (this email will only be sent to registered attendees). Pre-selected individuals will pitch over two days for a share of the ultimate grand prize of R100 000.
1. Must be based in and operate within a township
2. Business must be running for more than 2 years
3. Must have all compliance documents
4. Must be South African-owned, Level 1 BBBEE, and a micro enterprise
5. Submit a 1-minute pitch video
Started in 2022 in Daveyton, City of Ekurhuleni as part of the TEA Kasi Business Workshops, a nationwide programme. The Kasi Pitching Challenge has grown into a national movement. Since its launch, we have achieved:
- 3000+ entries
- 240 township business finalists
- 40 winners from across the country
This is not just a pitch session. It is a movement that delivers real, on-the-ground support to township businesses.
Impacting Township Entrepreneurs Nationwide
#JoinUsForTEA at the Township Economy Summit 2025
Watch the 2025 Summit
live from the comfort of your home or office and be part of the summit virtually.
Click the link below to go to the YouTube live stream page and select "Notify me" to get a reminder when the show is about to start.
Why You Should Attend TEAS 2025
Actionable Knowledge
We aim to create change in society and strengthen young people's access to their rights to health and education.
Learn from the Best
Hear from top industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs as they share the strategies that have made them trailblazers in their fields.
Expert-Led Panels
We aim to ensure that future generations experience valuable moments in their lives by focusing on their rights in the field of health.
Meet Key Players
Connect with over 1,000 township entrepreneurs, corporates, and government agencies ready to collaborate, invest, and support township businesses.
Build Partnerships
Expand your network with potential partners, mentors, and collaborators that can help you take your business to the next level.
Explore New Opportunities
Discover new markets, customers, and trends that are emerging in South Africa's township economy.
See Township Businesses in Action
Visit the Kasi Business Exhibition, where you can explore products and services from over 150 exhibitors showcasing what township businesses have to offer.
Support Local
Engage with the entrepreneurs who are driving township innovation, learn about their businesses, and see how they are contributing to the national economy.
Focus Group Tracks
The 7th Annual Township Economy Summit 2025 goes beyond a single conversation; it hosts a series of dedicated Sector Summits spotlighting the industries driving growth in our townships.
Spaza Shop & Distribution Summit
Spaza shops are the heartbeat of township economies, now evolving into powerful distribution hubs. This track explores wholesale access, digital tools, consumer shifts, and partnerships that can transform township retail.
Spaza Shop & Distribution
Spaza shops have always been the lifeblood of township economies, serving as trading hubs, community anchors, and sources of employment. Over the years, their role has expanded beyond convenience retail into vital distribution points that connect households to larger supply chains. Today, with digital payments, mobile commerce, and shifting consumer behaviour, spaza shops are central to conversations about the future of township economies.
Key focus areas:
- The role of spaza shops in township growth and inclusive trade
- Wholesale access and the future of township distribution networks
- Digital tools for stock, payments, and customer management
- Consumer behaviour shifts and opportunities for township retailers
- Partnerships between spazas, brands, and formal distributors
We look forward to this important conversation on how spaza shops and township distribution can transform local economies. To participate or be part of the dialogue, please reach out to our team.
Kasi Tech & Digital Transformation
From fintech to e-commerce and AI, technology is reshaping township life and business. This track focuses on digital payments, affordable connectivity, skills, and the innovations driving inclusive township growth.
Kasi Tech & Digital Transformation
Technology has moved from being a luxury to being the backbone of
township entrepreneurship. In the past, mobile phones connected
communities, but today, township entrepreneurs are using technology for
payments, e-commerce, marketing, and service delivery. The digital
transformation of the township economy is not just about adopting tools
 it is about creating pathways for scale, resilience, and
competitiveness in a fast-changing world.
Key Focus Areas
- Â Township fintech and digital payment solutions
- E-commerce platforms, dark-store models, and township logistics
- Affordable connectivity and digital infrastructure gaps
- Digital literacy and youth skills for the future economy
- The role of AI and automation in township businesses
We look forward to this conversation on digital transformation as a
driver of inclusive township growth. To participate or contribute,
please contact our team.
Green Economy
Townships face real challenges of energy, water, and waste yet entrepreneurs are creating green solutions. This track unpacks renewable energy, recycling, sanitation, and the rise of green jobs in our communities.
Green & Economy
The Green Economy is no longer a distant global agenda — it has become
a township reality. From rising electricity costs and load shedding to
waste management and water shortages, townships are directly affected by
environmental challenges. Yet, entrepreneurs are creating innovative
solutions in recycling, renewable energy, and sustainable living. This
track will explore how townships can be at the centre of climate
resilience and eco-friendly innovation.
- Â
- Â Renewable energy, township solar businesses, and affordability
- Waste management, recycling, and upcycling enterprises
- Water and sanitation innovations for township communities
- Green jobs and skills development for young people
- Funding opportunities and investment in sustainable businesses
We look forward to this conversation on how the Green Economy can power
township sustainability and opportunity. To take part in this dialogue,
please connect with our team.
Backroom & Property Market
The backroom economy has grown into a thriving property sector with opportunities for wealth creation and development. This track covers affordable housing, financing, infrastructure upgrades, and the construction value chain.
Backroom & Property Market
The backroom economy has always been a creative response to township
housing challenges, providing shelter for many while generating income
for families. Over time, it has grown into a dynamic property market
that shapes urban development, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Today,
the conversation goes beyond rentals to include affordable housing,
small-scale developments, and township property portfolios that could
build generational wealth.
Â
Key Focus Area:
- Â The backroom economy and its contribution to household income
- Affordable housing and township property development opportunities
- Access to finance and pathways to formalisation
- Infrastructure upgrades and service delivery challenges
- Jobs and opportunities across the construction and maintenance value
chain
We look forward to this dialogue on how the backroom and property market
can drive wealth creation in townships. To be part of this track, please
connect with our team.
Manufacturing Summit
Manufacturing has always been a job creator in townships, from textiles to food processing. This track focuses on scaling township producers, improving standards, accessing finance, and linking to bigger supply chains.
Manufacturing & EKasi
Manufacturing has always been a key driver of job creation and
industrial development. In the township context, small-scale
manufacturing has thrived in textiles, food processing, and artisanal
products. Today, the opportunity lies in scaling these businesses,
integrating them into formal supply chains, and making township-made
products competitive nationally and globally.
Key focus areas:
- Â Township manufacturing and the shift from informal to formal markets
- Value addition, product quality, and compliance standards
- Access to machinery, finance, and industrial infrastructure
- Integration with logistics and broader supply chains
- Export opportunities and scaling township-produced goods
We look forward to this conversation on how manufacturing can become a
pillar of township growth. If you would like to take part, please
connect with our team.
Mobility & Logistics eKasi
Mobility and logistics keep township economies moving — from spaza deliveries to taxi transport. This track explores last-mile delivery, township mechanics, ride-hailing, rising fuel costs, and logistics integration.
Mobility & Logistics EKASI
Spaza shops have always been the lifeblood of township economies, serving as trading hubs, community anchors, and sources of employment. Over the years, their role has expanded beyond convenience retail into vital distribution points that connect households to larger supply chains. Today, with digital payments, mobile commerce, and shifting consumer behaviour, spaza shops are central to conversations about the future of township economies.
Key focus areas:
- The role of spaza shops in township growth and inclusive trade
- Wholesale access and the future of township distribution networks
- Digital tools for stock, payments, and customer management
- Consumer behaviour shifts and opportunities for township retailers
- Partnerships between spazas, brands, and formal distributors
We look forward to this important conversation on how spaza shops and township distribution can transform local economies. To participate or be part of the dialogue, please reach out to our team.
Each Summit track offers focused discussions, exhibitions, and policy dialogues tailored to its sector. This format allows entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to dive deep into opportunities, innovations, and challenges unique to each industry, making the Summit a truly dynamic, multi-layered experience.
Testimonials
People are talking.
G20 Endorsed
2025 Keynote Speakers
Inspiring voices who shared wisdom and vision at our awards ceremony
Driver Programs Manager, Public Policy and External Affairs, at Take-A-Lot Group Mobility and Transportation Panel
Zibusiso Mkhwanazi
Avatar Agency Group
2025 Mbawula Chat
Every great business starts with a spark. Our Mbawula Chats capture that very essence. Watch as we sit down with trailblazing township entrepreneurs who share the highs, the lows, and the pivotal moments of their journey. It’s more than a talk; it’s a blueprint for your own success, shared in the spirit of community and connection.
Kasi Business Exhibition
Become an Exhibitor
Exhibiting at the Township Economy Summit comes with numerous benefits designed to maximize your brand exposure, build valuable connections, and create growth opportunities.
Exhibitor Benefits
Showcasing the best of what
eKasi has to offer
Brand Visibility
The Summit provides businesses with the chance to showcase their products, services, and brand to a wide audience, including potential customers, partners, and industry peers. This visibility helps to boost brand recognition and awareness in the market. A strong presence at an expo can help differentiate your business from competitors and strengthen your brand identity.
Lead Generation & Sales Opportunities
Exhibiting at the Summit is an effective way to generate new leads and drive sales. Attendees who visit your table are often interested in your industry, making them high-quality leads. Many businesses experience a significant increase in sales during and after participating in such activities.
Networking & Collaborations
The Summit is a perfect platform for networking. Exhibitors can connect with other industry professionals, potential partners, suppliers, and even competitors. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations, partnerships, and knowledge sharing.
Sisonke. Rekaofela. Siyabangena!
Registration is Free
This transformative Summit is free to attend – whether you're an entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or a community member passionate about supporting local businesses, you won’t want to miss it. However, space is limited, and registration is required to ensure your spot at the Summit.
01
Click the Register Button
02
Fill out the Form
03
Secure your Seat
See you at The Major Gathering of Township Entrepreneurs
For more information or any inquiries, feel free to contact us at TEAS@JoinUsForTEA.co.za.
2025 INTERCESSOR ARMY FRANCHISING. All Rights Reserved.
Made with love by ThinkFortune.co