The Association of SADC Chambers of Commerce and Industry (“ASCCI”) in partnership with Grace Bible Church (GBC) are hosting the 2008 Business Development Conference. The focus of this year's conference will be SMME & BEE Development. The focus of this year's conference will be the following:

• Third – GBC & ASCCI SMME & BEE Development Conference
• Launch of Global Business School of Entrepreneurship
• Launch of Global SME Business Toolkit
• Launch of Soweto Campus of GBSE (Evening and Saturday school)
• Announcement of the Regional Business Climate Survey

The conference will be held on Saturday 18 October 2008 at Grace Bible Church, Pimville, Soweto, starting at 08h00 to 17h00

In partnership with Nedbank as platinum sponsor, ASCCI, GBSE and Grace Bible Church invite you to attend this national business event showcasing the best of South African Corporate and Government leaders. More than 2 000 delegates are expected to attend the conference with more than 50 high profile speakers having confirmed.

The exciting plenary session and workshops will cover topics such as, Private and Public Partnerships, SMME Development, Codes of Good Practice, Women in Business, Access to Finance, Procurement Opportunities and many more. The highlight of the event will be the launch of the Global Business School of Entrepreneurship (GBSE) and the GlobalSMEBusinessToolkit.

To ensure that you receive the maximum benefit out of the conference, we have arranged a number of prominent speakers which will include among others, President of the ANC, Dr Jacob Zuma, Pastor Mosa Sono, Min. Mandisi Mphahlwa (DTI), Mr Harrison Kalua, Prof. Thami Mazwai, Dr Reuel Khoza, Dep. MEC. Paul Mashatile, Executive Mayor, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa, Mr Sibongiseni Ngudze, Mr Simon Phafane, Mr. Sipho Mseleku, and many more.