Due to an overwhelming response to the Smart Supplier Programme application process launched last week, the City has extended the deadline for applications to Friday, 17 February 2023. To accommodate more applications, the City will also increase the number of vendors who can participate in the programme. Read more below:
The programme, now in its seventh year, will be facilitated by Smart Procurement World.
‘Platforms such as this are crucial to small businesses because they provide knowledge and an understanding of the skills necessary to deal with challenges that can stifle growth. The first phase of the Smart Supplier Programme kicks off with 150 vendors who go through various issues concerned with business development. From that, 40 are selected and provided with access to markets and introductions to buyers and other new opportunities,’ said Alderman James Vos, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.
As part of the application process, vendors need to specify how they need to be helped and will thereafter be taken through a series of masterclasses.
To qualify, vendors must meet criteria including the following:
The business must be based in Cape Town
The business must have been in operation for a minimum of 18 months
Business owners must be able to handle increased market demands, and have a unique competitive advantage in the market in which you trade
You must be a registered supplier with the Central Supplier Database as a City Vendor
A valid tax certificate
‘As the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, everything I do is with a strong focus on building a more equal, inclusive and sustainable economy. A big part of this means maintaining and further developing the foundation for small businesses to continue being the engine room of growth by providing the right mix of smart procurement and supplier development support. Courses such as these help budding businesses to overcome obstacles and expand their operations which means more job opportunities and, ultimately, a stronger economy,’ said Alderman Vos.
To apply for the programme, businesses need to be registered as vendors on the City’s database at: https://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Register/Business-and-trade/Register-as-a-supplier. Applications close on Friday, 17 February 2023. To apply, head over to this link: https://www.formpl.us/form/5238160301883392
Source: City Of Cape Town