About us
Our story
From a small gathering of Orange Farm entrepreneurs on 5 August 2009 to a membership forum of 395+ businesses, cooperatives and non-profits.
Setshaba Sotlhe National Business Forum began because local business owners had no single place to get information, no shared voice when speaking to government and corporates, and no structured support when it came to compliance and tendering. Members decided to build that place themselves.
2009
The Forum is founded
Setshaba Sotlhe National Business Forum is established on 5 August 2009 in Orange Farm to unite local entrepreneurs under one voice.
2012
Registered as an NPO
The Forum is registered 133-192 NPO with the National Department of Social Development, opening the door to formal partnerships.
2015
Business clusters take shape
Members organise into sector clusters — construction, transport, agriculture, security and more — so support can be targeted.
2018
Youth Wing launched
A dedicated Youth Wing brings career guidance, job readiness, learnerships and entrepreneurship support to young people.
2021
Supplier development partnerships
Agreements with government departments, agencies and corporates open procurement and tender opportunities for members.
Today
395+ members and growing
Weekly meetings, training, compliance support and media advocacy keep local enterprise on the agenda.
Be part of the next chapter
Membership is open to SMMEs, cooperatives and non-profits who want to grow alongside other local businesses.