Event details
- 11-12 June 2025
- Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Expected Audience: Department of Trade & Industry, Business Leaders, Policymakers, Entrepreneurs, SMEs, Women and Youth in Business, Public and Private Sector Representatives, and Industry Stakeholders
NextGen Africa: Connecting Entrepreneurs & SMEs to the G20 is more than an event—it is a movement that drives Africa’s economic evolution through innovation, strategic partnerships, and inclusive growth. By uniting Africa’s brightest business minds with global leaders, we are forging a new path towards sustainable development, economic resilience, and a globally competitive Africa.
Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its economic evolution, driven by a new generation of entrepreneurs, SMEs, and innovators eager to leave a lasting impact on the global stage. This year, the continent takes center stage in a historic moment as it proudly hosts the G20—one of the world’s most influential economic forums—on African soil. Unapologetically, this is Africa’s G20. It is not just an invitation to the table but a declaration of Africa’s growing role in shaping global economic policies and trade strategies.
At the heart of the G20 is the B20, a crucial engagement group that provides the G20 with recommendations from the business community. The B20 ensures that the voice of private enterprises—including Africa’s SMEs and entrepreneurs—is heard, shaping policies that influence economic growth, investment, and trade. However, while the G20 is a platform for major economies, it has an undeniable duty to ensure the meaningful participation of SMEs and entrepreneurs in Africa. These businesses are the backbone of the continent’s economy, driving employment, innovation, and economic resilience.
Sinayo Trading, a key player in African trade, has already established a strong footprint across the continent. Through its extensive network, the company frequently receives feedback and inquiries from SMEs and entrepreneurs eager to understand how they can engage with the G20 process. Many of these businesses seek guidance on navigating trade barriers, accessing global markets, and overcoming structural challenges that hinder their growth. Their concerns underscore the urgent need for policies that empower African businesses to participate fully in the global economy.
The only way to accelerate Africa’s economic growth is to strengthen its alliances through its SMEs and entrepreneurs. By fostering greater collaboration between governments, international institutions, and private sector leaders, the G20 must champion inclusive economic policies that unlock opportunities for Africa’s businesses.
Now is the time to drive Africa’s economic transformation by ensuring that its innovators and business leaders are not just part of the conversation—but at the forefront of it.
NextGen Africa: Connecting Entrepreneurs & SMEs to the G20 is a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge the gap between Africa’s thriving business ecosystem and the world’s most influential economic leaders. This event is a catalyst for fostering collaboration, unlocking opportunities, and positioning Africa as a key player in the global economy.
Guided by five strategic pillars, the event is dedicated to empowering Africa’s business community by enhancing market access, improving financial inclusion, strengthening global partnerships, and driving sustainable growth:
Inclusive & Diversified Growth: To realize Africa’s full economic potential, it is essential to foster an inclusive trade environment where SMEs, entrepreneurs, women, and youth have equitable access to markets, finance, and business networks. By championing innovation, skills development, and supportive policies, this pillar ensures Africa’s diverse business landscape is equipped to compete and thrive in regional and global trade.
Cultivate Collaboration: Economic resilience and inclusive growth are rooted in collaboration. This pillar promotes the development of strategic partnerships between corporations, SMEs, and women-led enterprises, unlocking new market opportunities and accelerating Africa’s economic integration into the global trade network. Through strengthened alliances, Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem will be positioned as a formidable force on the G20 stage.
Financial Velocity: Access to capital remains a significant hurdle for African SMEs and entrepreneurs. Financial Velocity aims to address these challenges by identifying barriers to funding, providing insights into successful financing strategies, and equipping businesses with the knowledge to navigate investment landscapes. From optimizing cash flow management to exploring alternative funding solutions, this pillar empowers enterprises to accelerate financial growth and sustainability.
Africa Unlocked: Africa is a continent brimming with entrepreneurial talent, yet systemic barriers limit access to markets, finance, and essential business networks. Africa Unlocked focuses on dismantling these obstacles by fostering innovation, supporting skills development, and advocating for policies that enable businesses to participate in both regional and global trade. Through collaboration with G20 engagement groups and beyond, this initiative ensures that African enterprises are not only included but are thriving contributors to the world economy.
Unified Prosperity: A strong and interconnected trade ecosystem is vital for Africa’s sustained economic success. This pillar champions inclusive growth by leveraging technology to bridge trade gaps, enhance digital marketing capabilities, and facilitate cross-border business expansion. By embracing digital transformation and innovation, African SMEs can effectively compete in the global marketplace, creating a future of shared prosperity.
