At Brandscapers Africa, our summits are more than events, they are community impact platforms. We intentionally identify underserved communities, design future-focused concepts around their economic potential, and convene the corporates, government leaders, funders, and industry experts who can unlock real opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
This year, that community is Rustenburg.
Why INNOVEX 2026?
Taking place on 26–27 November 2026 at Ben Marais Hall, INNOVEX 2026 is a free entrepreneurship and innovation summit created for 600+ SMEs and entrepreneurs. Rather than asking entrepreneurs to travel to opportunity, we bring opportunity to them.
Four future industries driving the summit
Future Energy & Clean Technologies Future Water & Circular Economy Future Sustainable Food Systems Future Digital & Smart Industries These sectors were selected through research into the industries creating the greatest future potential for SMEs and inclusive economic growth.
What makes INNOVEX different?
INNOVEX is designed as an interactive, two-day experience where entrepreneurs don’t just listen, they connect, exhibit, pitch and grow.
Participants will have access to:
Pitching Challenges with sponsorships and business prizes SME Exhibitions to showcase products and services Funding & Procurement Conversations with development finance and corporate partners Mentorship & Business Masterclasses led by CEOs and industry experts Giveaways & Enterprise Development Support for growing businesses Following the summit, Brandscapers will continue supporting selected SMEs through branding, marketing, mentorship and strategic business exposure, ensuring the impact extends beyond the event.
A growing national ecosystem
INNOVEX 2026 continues to attract leading organisations committed to enterprise development.
Confirmed speakers include:
Hon. Jane Sithole — Deputy Minister of Small Business Development Vuyiswa Ramogopa — MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture & Rural Development Ndumiso Kubheka — CEO, NYDA Eustace Mashimbye — CEO, Proudly South African Cllr Sheila Mabale-Huma — Executive Mayor, Rustenburg Local Municipality Confirmed stakeholders include:
Proudly South African Rand Water WaterWise National Youth Development Agency National Empowerment Fund CSIR NYDA IDC PETCO Together, they will share opportunities, funding pathways, procurement insights and practical solutions for SMEs.
Building impact through partnership
The summit is made possible through strategic partnerships. Corporate sponsors contribute directly to SME development by funding pitching challenges, supporting exhibitions, providing mentorship, sponsoring prizes and creating market access opportunities for entrepreneurs. Every partnership is designed to leave a lasting impact on the businesses we serve.
The journey has already begun
INNOVEX 2026 has officially entered its national awareness campaign, with media engagement and stakeholder announcements already underway. As the platform continues to grow, our mission remains the same:
To ensure that where opportunity is often scarce, access is intentionally created.
Join us in Rustenburg, Ben Marais Hall on 26–27 November 2026 as we build the future of entrepreneurship together.
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