“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
If you are a fund manager, analyst, advisor, administrator, service provider or just curious about Section 12J, its role and value to investors and the economy, its stringent governance – and its future, this is the event to be at.
I have personally walked the journey from 2004 when Grovest set up and operationalized the first Section 12J in South Africa, to today proudly being the largest administrator of Section 12J VCCs in the market. It is my privilege, on behalf of Grovest, the team who have worked so hard in pioneering this alternative asset class, to be the lead sponsor of this milestone Indaba.
In an industry first, the Indaba is being held entirely online, using innovative video conferencing that facilitates delegates’ networking, and getting to know other people in the industry. Social capital is probably the most underestimated source of wealth that we as business people aren’t using to full advantage. It is at conferences like these where we network, and new business relationships and friendships are established.
A natural question would be could you achieve the same from a virtual conference as that of a physical one?
After months of watching the planning unfold, here’s my take on it:
- Costs – virtual is much cheaper to attend – no venue and food costs, and no flight costs if you are located outside of Joburg (where the event is usually held).
- Practicality – No traveling, traffic or parking hassles; and you are assured the best seat in the house!
- Content – there is no difference in content quality, and in some cases this is even better as we are able to link up speakers and delegates from across the country, with some delegates joining from outside of South Africa.
- Networking – technology has enabled conference participants to see who is attending, connect with them, and as well as to set up virtual chats and meetings. And with the exclusive 12J Indaba app available to confirmed delegates, you can start interacting with other delegates and sponsors before and during the event.
- Delegates still earn their CPD points for attending.
- Sponsorship – similarly, today’s technology allows sponsors to communicate with participants more meaningfully through the app, to host branded panels, break out rooms, and more.
- Mask-free and 100% COVID-safe through virtual social distancing
- Comfort! No awkward conference chairs for hours on end. Join us from the comfort of your home or office (even wearing your slippers – no-one will ever know!)
- Last but certainly not least, aside from the very pertinent theme of the Sunset Clause, it’s not often that one has the pleasure to glean so much information from so many industry experts on one platform, in one morning. The 12J Indaba is your opportunity to explore a range of topics relating to 12J. By way of example, Section 12J has been a significant vehicle in raising capital and creating jobs in the hospitality industry – which has also been one of the hardest hit industries as a result of COVID. You’ll get to hear first hand from industry experts Gillian Saunders – independent advisor to the minister of tourism, and Martin Weist the CEO of Tourvest Destination Management, the largest inbound tour operator in Africa, and others on what they believe the future holds.
If you are currently involved in, or advising clients around Section 12J, this is your opportunity to learn, grow, refine existing strategies and come up with new ones, understand best practice and upskill yourself.
I look forward to seeing you there!
For the full line-up of topics and speakers visit www.12jindaba.co.za
Jeff Miller
Grovest Co-founder and CEO
LEAD SPONSOR OF 12J INDABA 202