QSE Business Summit 2026

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain central to South Africa's economic growth, job creation and economic transformation agenda. However, many Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) encounter significant challenges when attempting to scale beyond early-stage growth, secure procurement opportunities, access finance and remain competitive in an evolving business landscape.

The inaugural QSE Business Summit 2026, hosted by The Drive Network Future Leaders NPC, has been designed to address these challenges by bringing together business leaders, procurement executives, financial institutions and industry experts to equip QSEs with the knowledge, networks and practical strategies required for sustainable enterprise growth.

Targeted at businesses with an annual turnover between R10 million and R50 million, the summit will explore how enterprises can strengthen their competitiveness while aligning with the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) framework to unlock procurement opportunities, improve access to finance and accelerate long-term business growth.

Throughout the day, delegates will benefit from a comprehensive programme of executive panel discussions, practical masterclasses and thought leadership sessions led by respected business leaders and industry experts. The summit will feature a keynote address by renowned entrepreneur and business strategist Vusi Thembekwayo, alongside presentations and masterclasses delivered by Marko Campher, Jedd Harris and Mushambi Mutuma.

Panel discussions will be facilitated by experienced business professionals, including Lerato Sebata and Lilah Clark, with expert insights shared by Adv. Thandi Sabelo, Dawn Smith, Obakeng Senne, Talifhani Banks, Keitumetse Lekaba and Logan Naidoo. Together, these sessions will unpack supplier evaluation methodologies, procurement readiness, scaling beyond Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes, business leadership, enterprise growth strategies and the evolving funding landscape for SMEs.

Participants will gain practical insights into:

• Procurement evaluation methodologies and supplier development.
• Scaling businesses beyond ESD programmes.
• Business leadership and organisational growth.
• Pre-approved business credit solutions.
• Alternative funding opportunities for SMEs.
• Leadership principles required to build resilient and high-performing enterprises.

Beyond knowledge sharing, the summit offers valuable opportunities for entrepreneurs, business owners, procurement professionals, investors and corporate stakeholders to build strategic relationships, exchange ideas and identify new business and procurement opportunities. Businesses will also have the opportunity to showcase their products and services through exhibition stalls, providing direct exposure to decision-makers and potential clients.

Whether you are seeking to strengthen your procurement readiness, improve access to finance, expand your professional network or gain practical insights from some of South Africa's leading business minds, the QSE Business Summit 2026 provides a valuable platform to support your next stage of growth.

Tickets and exhibition stalls are now available. To book your seat or enquire about exhibition opportunities, please contact 082 706 6085.