MSME Conference

29 April 2026
Conferences

About the conference

Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA or Agency), in partnership with the Coega Development Corporation (CDC), will host a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Conference for freight operators in the cross-border road transport industry. The conference aims to address key challenges, opportunities and industry developments that affect small businesses in the sector. The conference will be held from 28 – 29 July 2025 at Coega Vulindlela Village (VACC) in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality under the theme: "Unlocking the Potential of MSMEs: Driving Innovation, Growth, and Resilience".

Conference Objective

To empower and support MSME freight operators in the cross-border road transport industry by providing relevant insights, networking opportunities and strategies for growth, compliance and operational efficiency in an evolving transport landscape. Furthermore, the Conference will raise awareness about the C-BRTA's incubation programme and its benefits for emerging MSMEs in the transport sector.

The conference aims to bring together MSME stakeholders, policymakers, industry experts, and thought leaders to:

  • Share knowledge and best practices – by showcasing successful MSME stories, innovative solutions, and effective strategies for growth and sustainability;
  • Foster collaboration and networking – by providing a platform for MSMEs to connect with potential partners, investors and customers;
  • Address challenges and opportunities – by discussing key challenges facing MSMEs, such as access to finance, technology and markets, while exploring opportunities for growth and development;
  • Promote policy and regulatory support - by engaging policymakers and regulators in discussions on creating a supportive environment for MSME growth and development.

The MSME conference objectives are aligned with the incubation strategy, which aims to:

  • Identify and support emerging MSMEs in the transport sector;
  • Provide comprehensive support, including mentorship, funding and capacity building;
  • Foster partnerships and collaborations between emerging operators and industry stakeholders;
  • Promote transformation and growth in the industry.

By achieving the conference objectives, the C-BRTA aims to identify and support emerging MSMEs by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, facilitate access to funding and strategic networking opportunities which will ultimately growth and transform the transport sector.

Target Audience
 

  • Cross-Border Road Freight Transport Operators
  • Cross-Border Road Passenger Transport Operators looking to expand to cross-border freight operations
  • Domestic Operators looking to expand to cross-border operations
  • MSME in the transport sector value chain
  • Policymakers and regulators
  • Industry experts and thought leaders
  • Investors and financiers
  • Industries in the cross-border road transport value chain
  • Development partners
  • OEMs

Conference Focus Areas 

  • Innovation and Technology: leveraging digital solutions, fleet management tools, and automation for efficiency.
  • Access to Finance: Showcasing funding options, grants and financial tools for SMMEs in transport and logistics.
  • Market Access and Trade: Enhancing MSME participation in regional and global markets.
  • Skills Development and Capacity Building: Equipping operators with industry knowledge and best practices for sustainable growth and competitiveness.
  • Policy and Regulatory Support: Creating a supportive and conducive environment for MSME growth and development.
  • Sustainability & Green Transport – Promoting eco-friendly logistics and fuel-efficient practices.

Conference Format 

  • Keynote addresses, panel discussions and presentations
  • Plenary sessions
  • MSME and OEM exhibition
  • Networking sessions

Expected Outcomes

  • Incubation programme awareness: Interested MSME will be able to apply to be part of the Incubation programme.
  • Increased knowledge and awareness: Among MSMEs, policymakers, and stakeholders on key challenges and opportunities.
  • Improved networking and collaboration: Among MSMEs, investors, and partners.
  • Business connections and potential contracts between MSMEs and OEMs.
  • Policy and regulatory support: Commitments from policymakers and regulators to create a supportive, conducive environment for MSME growth and development.
  • Increased access to finance and markets: For MSMEs, through innovative financing models and instruments, including tools to enable regional expansion.