The Summit Is
Almost Here

Join industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers in a summit that will shape what's next. The countdown to inspiration, connection, and transformation has begun.

CBO SME SUMMIT

14 NOVEMBER 2025

00

Days

00

Hours

00

Minutes

00

Seconds

Building the Empire

Join us for a powerful day dedicated to empowering small and medium enterprises. Hear from visionary speakers who will share proven strategies, insights, and tools to help you build and grow your own business empire. Unlock your potential and take your SME to the next level!

Alex Johnson
Bio
We’re one of the leading business loan providers for viable small to medium businesses in the world. We provide loan finance ranging from R500 000 to R50 million to all business owners who have a viable formal business and require finance for expansion, working capital, equipment, takeovers, property, franchises or management buy-outs. We operate from South Africa, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda and Uganda.

Business Partners

SPEAKER

Sarah Williams
Bio

Founder, Rush Nutrition | COO, Heartlines NPO I’m a recovering banker and management consultant who now finds myself at the intersection of business leadership, societal transformation, and personal well-being. My journey began in the corporate world, spending time with KFML Holdings & FNB., sharpening my skills in strategy, operational efficiency, and data-driven opportunity spotting.

Today, I channel that experience into two passions. As Founder of Rush Nutrition, I’m committed to turning the tide on chronic disease through integrative, whole-person health solutions. Rush Nutrition was recognised in the London Stock Exchange’s 2019 edition of “Companies Inspiring Africa”. As COO of Heartlines NPO, I help move people from professed values to lived values-driving real, lasting change in communities.

Lara Mare

SPEAKER

Michael Chen
Bio
I am a firm believer in South Africa, its people and its immense potential. My latest start-up, Melon Mobile - South Africa’s first fully digital MVNO is set to disrupt the mobile industry by putting the consumer at the heart of it all, offering a new level of control, flexibility, and value.


I have spent over 22 years in the Technology and Telecoms space. Driven by technology and innovation I have dedicated these years to building diverse, high-performing teams with a keen focus on creating a strong company culture. Before starting Melon Mobile, I spent 5 years at MTN as part of the Exec Team which involved building one of MTNs first sub-brands, Supersonic - taking it to number 1 ISP in its first year of relaunch.

Calvin collett

SPEAKER

Sarah Williams
Bio

As a Legal specialist, having managed and lead multiple successful practices, client satisfaction is paramount to me. My firms have assisted both small and large corporations in their legal needs, risk management as well as their growth targets, helping them to robustly scale their businesses. Let me show you how to Build your Business Empire on a solid legal and business framework.

Kenny Smith

SPEAKER

David Kim
Bio

Theo Pillay is a highly skilled business professional with extensive experience in consulting, training, and SMME development. He has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, having managed large projects and programs for major corporate companies such as MTN, Old Mutual, and Engen, as well as governmental departments like SARS and the Western Cape Education Department. With a history of setting up new startups, including being featured in Enterprise magazine as the youngest Chicken Licken franchisee at the time, he has gained immense hands-on experience and a holistic understanding of the entire value chain. Driven by the philosophy of Ubuntu, Theo is passionate about empowering individuals and communities to unlock their potential through knowledge, practical skills, and ethical business practices. As one of the founders of Lawyerz and trainerz Academy, he has dedicated his career to creating transformative, learner-centric training programs that blend real-world business insights with academic rigor.

Theo Pillay

SPEAKER

From industry leaders to breakthrough innovators, our lineup of speakers
brings fresh insights and bold ideas to every stage.

Why You Should Attend The CBO SME Summit

The CBO 2025 SME Summit & Excellence Session is designed to bridge SMEs from across the world, connecting more opportunities for meaningful partnerships, brand exposure, and economic impact.

This full-day event will feature:

  • Keynote presentations
  • Networking sessions
  • Business exhibitions

All designed to help businesses activate sustainable business growth.

You should attend if you are a:
  • Small and medium business owner (various industries)
  • Startup, entrepreneur, and service provider
  • Professional and community leader
CBO SME Summit 2025

Sundowners Session

After a day filled with powerful insights, connections, and growth at the CBO SME Summit, it’s time to shift gears and celebrate.

Join us for the Sundowners Session at the Beach Bar — an authentic experience where delegates can kick off their shoes, feel the real beach sand beneath their feet, and raise a glass to a day well spent.

Let's toast to collaboration, community, and a future of successful business – together.

Pricing

Summit AND Sundowners Ticket
R681
Early Birds Tickets
Now - 12 Oct 2025
Summit AND Sundowners Ticket
R753
Regular Tickets
13 Oct 2025 - 06 Nov 2025
Sundowners ONLY Ticket
R105
AUG - SEPT
Now - 06 Nov

Purchase Ticket

Secure your spot today by purchasing your ticket online. Our simple and convenient process ensures you get instant access without any hassle.

Buy Tickets

Sponsorship Prospectus

For more information regards sponsorship of the CBO SME Summit & Sundowners Session, please download the prospectus and feel free to reach out to the team thereafter.

Download

2025 EVENT SPONSORS

Frequently Asked Questions

Still confused?

Drop an email, we'll keep you posted.

Interested in attending the summit? Share your email with us and stay informed with event updates, registration details, and everything you need to be part of the experience.

The event is scheduled for Friday, 14 November 2025.

The venue is ANEW Hotel OR Tambo, located at 1 Country St, Lakefield, Benoni.

Registration begins at 8:15 AM, The summit officially starts at 9:00 AM.

Yes, you can access them directly from the platform.

You’ll receive a confirmation email with key event info and will be notified as soon as tickets become available.

At the Beach Bar, located at the CIELO Restaurant within the same venue.