The Big Idea was originally the brainchild of HBD Venture Capital and enjoyed a strong following from 2003 to 2005, but took a breather in 2006.

Now it is being brought back by www.sabusinesshub.com — a fast-growing portal for small SA businesses.

Stepping stones to success

Julia Long, CEO of HBD Venture Capital, the VC firm started in 2000 by Mark Shuttleworth, said that a change of focus at HBD meant that it was a good time for someone else to take over The Big Idea reigns. “We have changed our funding model and this means that the conferences are no longer a natural fit for us. We were very pleased to transfer the concept and logistics to SABusinessHub, a company which has the drive and passion needed to make these great platforms a success.”

Luther Diedericks, CEO of SABusinessHub said The Big Idea events were a series of practical and interactive networking events and focused workshops aimed at assisting entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs with the development, growth and marketing of their businesses.

“The Big Idea was very successful in the past so it is a brand which we are very excited to nurture and build upon.”

SA needs a platform for networking

He also said that networking platforms at this level in South Africa were currently limited.

“We are a country full of great ideas and new businesses and yet it is often hard for us to get businesses off the ground because the more traditional ‘nine-to-five’ forms of commerce are viewed as less risky. We hope these events will fill a gap and allow entrepreneurs to network, form business relationships and find ways to work together and compliment each other’s successes.”

The February Big Idea conferences will take place from the beginning of February, starting in Belville on 1 February. For more information contact Luther Diedericks on +27 84 808 0200, or visit www.thebigidea.co.za