Building Economic Inclusion: Startups Fuelling Change

ABOUT

What lessons can be learned from start-ups that have created economic inclusion by enabling niche solutions built on collaboration and partnership?

One of the great challenges of South Africa’s here and now is economic inclusion. We all know that far too many people continue to be on the outside of economic activity, looking in. Naturally the formal sector has a role to play in fixing this, but over time, start-ups have repeatedly shown the way, often through partnerships and collaboration (the “1 + 1 = 3” model); and often through their ability to understand and meet niche needs.

In this panel discussion, we’ll be hearing from enterprises that have some hard-earned lessons to share.

Key Takeaways

1. Economic Inclusion Through Niche Solutions: This panel discussion will explore how start-ups have leveraged collaboration and partnership to address specific, underserved needs, particularly in communities often left out of traditional economic frameworks. Attendees can expect to learn about the tangible impact of niche, community-centered solutions that go beyond conventional approaches.
2. Power of Collaboration and Partnerships: The "1 + 1 = 3" model demonstrates the amplifying effect of collaboration, where partnerships can create more significant outcomes than individual efforts. Panelists will share examples of how strategic partnerships can expand reach, resources, and impact, particularly within South African communities.
3. Lessons from Industry Leaders: The panel features leaders like Sindile Mavundla, who has turned cycling into a tool for community building and empowerment, and Jamie Thurston Wyngaard, who has innovated in the mobility space. Their insights will showcase how understanding niche needs and engaging with the community can lead to successful, sustainable enterprises.
4. Challenges and Opportunities in Mobility and Cycling: Jamie and Sindile’s work in mobility and cycling highlights sectors with untapped potential for economic inclusion. The discussion will delve into overcoming challenges in these sectors, such as building trust, ensuring accessibility, and aligning with government objectives.

Who Should Attend?

• Entrepreneurs and Start-Up Founders: Those interested in building or scaling businesses with a focus on impact, particularly through partnerships and niche solutions.
• Investors and Private Equity Professionals: Investors looking to understand how collaborative business models can yield both financial returns and social impact.
• Tech and Mobility Innovators: Professionals working in tech, mobility, or related industries who are looking to learn from successful models of economic inclusion.
• Community and Economic Development Leaders: Individuals interested in understanding how start-ups can contribute to community empowerment and development through economic inclusion.
• Public Sector and Policy Makers: Those involved in shaping policies around economic inclusion, mobility, and infrastructure who can benefit from hearing how start-ups address these issues on the ground.

This event offers a great opportunity to network, gain actionable insights, and learn about the intersection of social impact and profitable business in South Africa's dynamic start-up landscape.

This event is in collaboration with LevelUp.

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