A new GEN Campus opened during Global Entrepreneurship Week celebrations in Cape Town, South Africa today. The hub is an expansion of 22 on Sloane, the first GEN Campus location that opened in Johannesburg in 2017.
GEN Campuses provide a physical startup village where entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate and share knowledge and networks - particularly in regions where entrepreneurs face barriers to entry into local, national and global ecosystems.
The new 22 on Sloane Cape Town hub expands the program's reach and impact as an entrepreneurial ecosystem enabler in Africa, and reinforces GEN's commitment to nurturing entrepreneurs across Africa. Since launching 7 years ago in Johannesburg, 22 on Sloane has supported the creation of more than 550 high-skilled jobs and more than US $46.6 million in cumulative revenue thanks to capacity building, access to capital and access to market programming.
The Cape Town hub is set within 1,100 m2 of prime real estate overlooking Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean and the cityscape of Green Point - offering entrepreneurs an inspiring environment to grow companies. The hub includes co-working spaces, offices, boardrooms and event spaces.
"The launch of the Cape Town hub is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration," said GEN President Jonathan Ortmans. "This hub will inspire entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools to overcome barriers and achieve remarkable success.“
The launch event, a cornerstone of the region's Global Entrepreneurship Week activities, was supported by African Bank, the South African Future Trust, the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority, and Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies. The launch was attended by entrepreneurs, investors, ecosystem builders and policymakers representing the Western Cape Provincial Government and the City of Cape Town.
Kizito Okechukwu, Executive Head at 22 On Sloane, reflected on the significance of Global Entrepreneurship Week and the Cape Town hub launch:
"Global Entrepreneurship Week provides a unique platform for entrepreneurs worldwide to showcase their ideas, gain access to resources, and build invaluable connections. At 22 On Sloane, we’re excited to be at the forefront of these efforts, empowering entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and thrive in a global market. This year’s theme of ‘Removing Barriers and Welcoming All’ is particularly meaningful, as it aligns with our mission to foster inclusive growth and innovation across Africa and beyond. The launch of the Cape Town hub during GEW 2024 is a key step in our journey to support even more entrepreneurs, creating a broader ecosystem for startups in Africa."
Beyond the launch, 22 On Sloane is hosting several key Global Entrepreneurship Week events including a hackathon at the new hub, offering innovators the opportunity to solve pressing global challenges through tech-driven solutions.
Additionally, following the successful launch of its Game Development Studio at the Johannesburg hub in July 2024, 22 On Sloane will be hosting its first Gaming Fest on November 20. The event will feature game demos, esports tournaments, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.