DURBAN — The World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) 2023, a significant event connecting investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers globally, has commenced at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube welcomed the international delegates attending this prestigious gathering.
According to South African Government News Agency, which successfully bid to host the WBAF 2023 through the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs in 2021, the forum is a strategic global organization affiliated with the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI). Its mission focuses on facilitating finance accessibility for businesses ranging from startups to scaleups.
Dube-Ncube expressed that hosting the forum aligns with the province’s economic recovery and development strategy, which prioritizes supporting and financing innovation, startups, and Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The event presents an opportunity for provincial local businesses to make meaningful connections and engage in match-making activities with global leaders in entrepreneurship and investment.
She highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship and international investment in rebuilding the economy, particularly the forum’s focus on digital and business transformation of small businesses. The WBAF 2023 also concentrates on enhancing the quality of local investors and increasing financial inclusion in local economies, especially in the post-pandemic era.
The meeting is scheduled for 21-22 November 2023 and is expected to foster significant collaboration and investment opportunities.