Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu, this week announced the launch of an online platform which is geared towards becoming South Africa’s biggest website dedicated to showcasing craft and design products made in the country.
The platform called Peek, features the work of local craft workers and designers. The platform was launched Tuesday, 28 February at the Cape Craft and Design Institute (CCDI) in Cape Town.
According the website: “[Peek] provides a platform for SA businesses anywhere in the country to showcase their work to a local and global audience, highlighting the very best of what South Africa has to offer.”
Here is what you need to know about the website:
Q: What is Peek?
Peek is a search and connect website that is free to use and will open up access to new markets for the many small craft and design businesses.
Q: What products are available on the website?
Everything from designer clothing and jewellery to leather goods and glassware.
Q: How many businesses are currently on the platform?
“The website has been piloted since August 2016 with small businesses and currently has over 100 businesses listed and over 450 products showcased. It has already received over 35,000 views in its pilot phase,” said Zulu.
Q: Who is behind the website?
The platform was spearheaded by the Cape Craft and Design Institute (CCDI) and funded through the Craft Customised Sector Programme of the Department of Small Business Development.
Zulu said the Craft Customised Sector Programme is a fund disbursed to provincial hubs and agencies to support and grow creative enterprises in the craft sector in South Africa.
The Programme has been in existence since 2007 and has been contributing to government’s commitment to rapid economic transformation.
Q: What does the department hope to achieve with the launch of the platform?
“The Peek website is an important addition to the physical market access opportunities on a global platform. It facilitates access for small businesses to local markets, key national and international trade and consumers,” said Zulu.
Q: How can I sign up my business?
Zulu, urged creative businesses to sign up for the Peek site by registering as a business member on the free national database at www.ccdi.org.za and once registered, businesses can directly access Peek to upload products.
