Cape Town’s business landscape continues evolving rapidly, and next month thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals are expected to gather at the Cape Town International Convention Centre for what organisers say could become one of the city’s largest business networking events of the year.
The Cape Town Business Summit and EXPO 2026 is expected to bring together more than four thousand delegates when the event takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on the 3rd of June.
Organisers say the summit will focus heavily on entrepreneurship, innovation, digital business growth, and networking opportunities as South African businesses continue adapting to shifting economic conditions and rapidly changing consumer behaviour.
The event is expected to attract entrepreneurs, investors, startups, corporate leaders, technology companies, and small business owners from across the country, with a growing emphasis on practical business development and scalable entrepreneurial opportunities.
Several high-profile business and leadership figures are expected to participate in the summit, including entrepreneur and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo, City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth James Vos, banking executives, technology specialists, and emerging business founders.
One of the biggest attractions this year is expected to be the launch of the new “Lion’s Den” pitch competition, where selected entrepreneurs will present business ideas live on stage in front of judges and investors for an opportunity to secure a twenty five thousand rand investment prize.
Organisers say the expo section has also expanded significantly compared to previous years, allowing additional space for exhibitions, networking opportunities, startup showcases, and business development engagements.
The summit arrives at a time when entrepreneurship and small business activity are becoming increasingly important within South Africa’s economy.
As living costs continue rising and traditional employment pressures remain challenging for many households, growing numbers of South Africans are exploring self-employment, side hustles, and independent business ownership as alternative income pathways.
Cape Town itself continues positioning strongly as one of South Africa’s leading business and startup hubs, with increasing investment flowing into technology, digital services, tourism, creative industries, and innovation-focused enterprises across the Western Cape.
For many entrepreneurs attending the summit, the event represents more than networking alone.
It reflects a growing belief that small business, innovation, and entrepreneurship may increasingly shape the future of South Africa’s economic recovery and long-term growth.
Source: Event Organisers / CTICC Event Listing.
