BOFE 2011, sponsored by Standard Bank, is a strategic joint partnership between Thebe Exhibitions and Projects and the Eskom Foundation, equipping visitors with the knowledge and contacts needed to start up an inspired business of their own or increase their investment portfolio.

Glynis Anderson, General Manager of Thebe Exhibitions and Projects, says: “The Business Opportunities and Franchise Expo’s collaboration with media giants such as The Star, The Star Workplace and IOL, under the Independent Newspapers umbrella, truly gives it that grand platform to educate and attract entrepreneurs through its loyal audience. Furthermore, this allows us to work with government targets to achieve economic growth and job creation, by stimulating the development of small-to-medium enterprises.”

Haylene Liberty, CEO of the Eskom Foundation, says the partnership provides good exposure for exhibitors to profile themselves to a national audience. “It’s a platform that gives business owners and aspirant entrepreneurs the opportunity to take advantage of vital marketing and branding through one of the biggest media publications in the country.”

As the true means to developing a robust economy full of opportunities, entrepreneurs and small-to-medium business owners need to be nurtured and have access to investors, funding and marketing opportunities. “The Business Opportunities and Franchise Expo spreads this message and The Star Workplace is pleased to be associated with it,” says Theo Garrun, Editor of The Star Workplace.

The Star Workplace has been a partner of the Business Opportunities and Franchise Expo for a number of years.

Garrun adds that it is widely accepted that the solution to South Africa's unemployment problem lies in the successful establishment of small businesses. “Starting a business is risky, however, and many startup enterprises go under in the first years of their existence,” says Garrun. “That's the advantage of a franchise. A tried and trusted concept with the necessary training and support has a far greater chance of success.”

For almost two decades, the expo’s visitors have had the opportunity to research franchise options and explore a variety of free workshops. BOFE will run from Thursday, 15 to Sunday, 18 September at the Coca-Cola Dome.

“Each and every year, this world-class entrepreneurship expo facilitates face-to-face meetings and interaction between visitors, investors and key stakeholders. It’s a driver of change and really adds inspiration to those who want to become business owners,” concludes Anderson.

If you’re interested in participating in BOFE 2011, contact Belinda Unterslak on 011 549 8300 or email belinda@tepg.co.za to reserve your space. To find out more about this auspicious event, visit www.bofe.co.za or join the BOFE Facebook group for regular updates on BOFE 2011 and all the upcoming expo attractions.