By TellZim ReporterMasvingo Province is set to position itself as an emerging investment and enterprise hub through the inaugural Masvingo Business Showcase 2026, a three-day platform aimed at connecting businesses, investors, entrepreneurs and institutions.The event, scheduled for June 4 to 6 2026 at Urban Lifestyles Hotel in Masvingo, is expected to bring together government institutions, corporates, SMEs, development partners, financial institutions and the diaspora community to promote investment opportunities and enterprise growth within the province.Organised by Elite Experiences & Escapes, the Showcase seeks to become an annual flagship platform driving innovation, collaboration and sustainable economic development in Masvingo.Speaking ahead of the event, co-founder and creative director Tafadzwa Chinembiri Fugede said the initiative was inspired by the need to unlock Masvingo province’s often overlooked economic potential by creating a platform to bridge gaps within the province’s business ecosystem, particularly limited access to markets, investors and collaborative networks.“The inspiration came from recognising the immense potential within Masvingo Province that often goes unnoticed. Masvingo has strong opportunities in agriculture, mining, tourism, land development, entrepreneurship and innovation, yet many local businesses struggle with visibility, investment access and strategic partnerships“One of the biggest gaps is limited access to markets, investors, information and collaborative networks. Many SMEs and entrepreneurs have promising products or ideas but lack exposure, financing opportunities and business support,” said Fugede.According to organisers, Masvingo’s strategic advantages include its agricultural capacity, tourism assets, mineral resources and land availability, all of which position the province as a potential investment destination.Fugede identified agriculture and agro-processing, tourism and hospitality, mining and value addition, renewable energy, land development, SMEs and digital innovation as some of the sectors expected to drive growth in the coming years.“Agriculture and agro-processing remain significantly underexposed, particularly value addition opportunities. Tourism is another major area. Masvingo hosts important heritage sites yet there is still untapped potential in hospitality and tourism investment.“There is often a perception that opportunity exists elsewhere, yet Masvingo itself holds significant potential for wealth creation and sustainable businesses,” said Fugede.Beyond exhibitions and networking, organisers say the event is expected to produce practical outcomes including business partnerships, investment interest, financing opportunities, knowledge transfer and increased market access for SMEs.The event which be free , will also place emphasis on youth entrepreneurship and startup visibility by exposing young business owners to investors, mentors and funding conversations.“We want young people to see entrepreneurship and enterprise as realistic pathways for growth and impact. We want the people of Masvingo to have access to opportunities, information and networks that can support growth regardless of business size or financial position,” said Fugede.While attendance is free, organisations seeking exhibition, sponsorship and partnership opportunities can participate through packages starting from US$250.The Showcase will feature business exhibitions, conference sessions, investment dialogue, policy discussions, SME support initiatives and business-to-business networking opportunities across multiple sectors.The showcase will include sessions like Men of Impact Breakfast on June 6, 2025, a gathering focused on men’s wellness (Mental and physical), leadership, purpose and personal growth, family and relationships among others with the entry fee charged at US$20. For females there will be a Women in Business breakfast meeting focusing on key areas such as leadership and personal growth, business and growth strategy, financial wellness, innovation and entrepreneurship as well as mentorship and support all for US$20 as well. The highlight of the showcase will the awards night to be held on June 6, again where individuals and businesses driving Masvingo forward will be honoured. Ticket prices for the awards night will go for US$40. The awards night will be hosted under the theme ‘Celebrating Excellence, Recognising Impact, Inspiring Growth’. Interested businesses and individuals can contact Elite escapes on +263 78 282 0355 or on +263 71 334 8836
