25 Jun The Network Effect: A Conversation on Building and Sustaining Entrepreneurial Communities in South Africa

When the minds behind some of South Africa’s most influential entrepreneurial networks gather in one room, the result is nothing short of powerful. This was the case at “The Network Effect” event hosted at Innovation City Cape Town. The event was not just a panel discussion; it was a critical conversation about what it takes to build, lead, and sustain entrepreneurial communities, both within South Africa and globally.

The evening was moderated by Kieno Kammies, Co-founder of Innovation City, whose blend of humour and purpose guided the discussion through a series of compelling insights from some of the country’s most impactful network leaders.

Fred Roed, CEO of Heavy Chef (Pty) Ltd explored how the platform is evolving from hosting events and producing content to driving real, measurable change. He emphasised the importance of data and long-term thinking, especially in South Africa’s township economy, where heavy lifting is required to create lasting impact. Heavy Chef’s focus on using real-world data to shape impactful programmes highlighted the need for a more systematic approach to ecosystem building, particularly in underserved communities.

Gaynor MacArthur, President of the Entrepreneurs’​ OrganizationCape Town chapter, shared candid insights into EO’s evolution. What was once seen as a boys’ club has now become a more inclusive space, with over 35% of EO’s members now being women entrepreneurs. Her willingness to speak openly about EO’s internal transformation sparked a rich discussion on the challenges and rewards of fostering genuine inclusion within entrepreneurial networks.

Nic Latouf, Co-founder of The Lekker Network, shared a powerful insight: South Africa’s greatest export is not commodities, but people. Together with his co-founder, Renier Lombard, Nic is working to activate the South African diaspora, ensuring that South Africans living abroad remain connected and can collaborate with those back home. This insight shed light on the untapped potential of the global South African community and underscored the need to leverage these connections for cross-border growth and innovation.

Jono More, SA Regional Lead for OPUS shared how the organisation connects South African entrepreneurs with an international network of business leaders, providing access to global opportunities, partners, and investors. He emphasised the importance of mentorship within OPUS, where founders can tap into a diverse community of peers and experts to receive practical guidance. OPUS supports scaling businesses by facilitating international collaborations, allowing entrepreneurs to build global networks that extend far beyond local markets.

George Eadie explained that Civitas Network focuses on nurturing both the personal and professional development of entrepreneurs. His approach combines mentorship, coaching, and mindfulness practices to help founders develop mental resilience, which is essential for scaling businesses. He spoke about the fact that Civitas addresses the emotional and psychological challenges that often come with entrepreneurship, ensuring that founders are not only equipped with business tools but also the emotional strength to navigate adversity.

Renier Kriel discussed how The Founder Collab supports early-stage startups by focusing on practical, real-world tools for growth, with an emphasis on idea validation. By connecting founders with potential customers and investors early on, his network helps businesses ensure they are building something that truly resonates with the market. The network fosters collaboration and peer-to-peer mentorship, empowering entrepreneurs to scale their businesses with the right feedback and support.

Ms Zinhle Novazi, an audience member and an expert in Tech Law, Trade Finance, and Tax, captured the essence of the session perfectly: “It was a necessary conversation about what it takes to build, lead, and sustain entrepreneurial communities in South Africa (and beyond).”

The evening’s conversation was impactful not only for the practical insights shared but also for the collaborative spirit it fostered. The event reinforced the idea that while individual success is important, the power of networks lies in the shared efforts of entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and organizations working together to drive sustainable growth.

The way forward is clear: fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and resilience will be key to scaling these networks and supporting the next generation of South African entrepreneurs.

How to Join Each Network:

1. Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Cape Town

Eligibility: Must be the founder, co-founder, owner, or controlling shareholder of a company with annual revenues exceeding $1 million USD.
Application Process: Submit an online application through their EO Cape Town membership page.
Membership Fees:Cape Town Annual Dues are R28 000 ex VAT with a one time R5 000 initiation fee.

2. Heavy Chef

Membership Options:

Free Membership: Access to a library of short courses featuring technologists, leaders, and creatives.
Paid Membership: R250 per month (first 30 days free), offering personal access to leading entrepreneurs in the Heavy Chef community.
Application Process: Sign up directly on their Heavy Chef membership page.

3. The Lekker Network

Membership Tiers:

Individual Membership: R1,500/month (VAT exclusive), including platform access, networking events, job portal access, WhatsApp community access, and member directory.
Premium Membership: R2,000/month (VAT exclusive), adding business listing, job listing, and chapter participation.
Application Process: Apply through their membership page.

4. The Founder Collab

Eligibility: Open to early-stage tech founders and serious side-hustlers in South Africa, including those at the idea stage or with early traction.
Application Process: Apply via their website.

5. OPUS

Eligibility: Designed for visionary founders, disruptors, and creators.
Application Process: Join the waitlist through their OPUS join page.

6. Civitas Network

Eligibility: Founders or CEOs of high-growth businesses generating at least $500,000 in annual revenue or with exceptional prior experience.
Application Process: Complete the application on their membership page.

7. Innovation City Cape Town

Membership Criteria: Innovation City is a collaborative hub for innovators, entrepreneurs, startups, corporates, and investors, all working to drive business growth in South Africa. Membership is open for anyone looking to engage with a diverse entrepreneurial community, expand their business, or access resources for growth and innovation.

Application Process: Interested individuals and organisations can apply directly through the Innovation City website. Once your application is reviewed, you’ll gain access to a variety of networking events, workspace options, and business development resources designed to help you scale.

Benefits:

• Dynamic Workspaces: Flexible office spaces tailored for individuals or teams of any size.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.
• Exclusive Events: Invitations to exclusive masterclasses, founder showcases, and innovation-focused events.
• Growth Resources:Opportunities for mentorship, funding, and strategic partnerships to accelerate your business.
• Get Started: Apply for Membership