Too many corporate enterprise and supplier development (ESD) initiatives focus on compliance rather than real results. For long-term success and a sustainable impact on lives, the economy and South Africa’s unemployment crisis, emerging suppliers must be integrated into real supply chains.

This is the contention of Kgalaletso Tlhoaele, head: Enterprise Development at Absa. Ahead of the 14th annual Absa ESD Expo, he urges businesses to examine whether their ESD approach is just a compliance checkbox or a truly transformative economic driver. “After 14 years, and with more than 14 000 small businesses engaged since 2012, the Absa ESD Expo is a powerful formula that works and creates real business opportunities,” he states.

“This is more than just an event and offers much more than exhibition stands and networking sessions. It is a market access programme that continues to empower emerging businesses long after the expo. Hosted small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) benefit from a six-month extensive buyer linkage platform which includes ongoing buyer matchup sessions, direct introductions to buyers and ongoing access to SMME clinic masterclasses,” Tlhoaele explains. “The 2024 programme recently culminated in a gathering in Riversands where attending small businesses got a powerful kickstart to 2025 with access to more than 40 buyers from across the industry spectrum. This is a comprehensive, purpose-driven formula for business growth, ensuring that emerging suppliers are not just seen but integrated into real supply chains.”

Feedback from attendees echoes this. Kealeboga Tshikovhi from Lamo Fuel says: “Since joining the Absa / Smart Procurement World ESD Programme, our business has grown tremendously. We secured a supplier development loan and an agreement that strengthened our financial position and market access. We've also formed key partnerships in Kenya, Gauteng, Rwanda and Zambia, expanding operations and securing sustainable feedstock sources. This programme has been a game-changer for our long-term sustainability.”

Mechanical engineering company Bareng Cons Services has benefited through exposure to major original equipment manufacturers, according to Rita Sello-Mohlala. “We've built a strong database of buyers and are already working on a tender submission. Some corporates have initiated communication, and we’re planning a factory site visit for potential clients. The last session led to serious commitments from buyers.”

 “The programme opened doors we never imagined. We also secured a five-year contract worth R500 000, a game-changer for our business,” says Thabile Makhoba, Makhoba Professional Services.

The Absa ESD Expo’s success in bridging the gap between SMMEs and corporate procurement teams is what sets it apart, according to Colleen Mac Namara from Zeltec Telecoms (Pty) Ltd.

“While exhibitions and networking are essential, real supplier development happens when SMMEs receive sustained, structured support beyond the event itself. That’s why the Absa ESD programme ensures long-term market access through structured, facilitated engagements with corporate procurement teams. The proof lies in the numbers, and more importantly, in the voices of the entrepreneurs whose businesses have been transformed through the Absa ESD programme. The future of ESD lies in moving beyond lip service. Absa is proud to be at the forefront of this, setting the gold standard for what effective supplier development looks like, and providing tangible results, strategic mentorship and structured market access,” Tlhoaele states.

The 2025 Absa ESD Expo takes place from 16 to 17 September 2025 at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand. It runs alongside the 19th annual Smart Procurement World Indaba.

Smart Procurement ESD project manager Nyasha Mate urges corporates and SMMEs to get involved in the Absa ESD Expo. “This is an invaluable opportunity for corporates to empower their beneficiaries with direct access to hundreds of buyers actively seeking solutions. Their growth is your success. This is also where meaningful connections that drive sustainable business opportunities are established. Corporates have commended the impact of the Supplier Matchup Sessions.

“SMME’s have a not to be missed chance to showcase their offerings on the exhibition floor,” Mate expands.

The expo will feature more than 250 exhibiting SMMEs, interactive on-floor sessions and one-on-one Supplier MatchUp meetings. In addition, an open visitor day allows broader industry participation, fostering valuable connections.