On Monday, 1 June 2026, the Western Cape Government’s commitment to innovation as a key driver of economic growth and job creation was recognised at the 2026 Western Cape Economy Innovation Awards.
The Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Cape Higher Education Consortium jointly hosted the event.
The Provincial Treasury’s Alternative and Blended Finance (ABF) Framework won in the category “Catalytic innovations that contribute to growth.” The ABF Framework was launched in April 2025 in direct response to tightening national fiscal conditions and the need for the province to unlock new sources of funding for growth and infrastructure.
Western Cape Minister of Finance, Deidré Baartman, said, “The framework marks a shift in how we partner with the private sector to deliver impact at scale.”
Since its launch, the Provincial Treasury has made steady progress in implementing the ABF. The Western Cape Government already has 100% unqualified audits for three consecutive years. Work is underway with the World Bank and National Treasury on establishing a Credit Guarantee Vehicle to derisk private sector investment. At the same time, preparations continue for the first provincial loan in Western Cape Government history.
“This progress reflects the commitment of our dedicated team in Provincial Treasury. I thank our Head of Treasury, Ms Julinda Gantana, as well as the teams across the department who contributed to developing and advancing this Framework. Appreciation also goes to all Heads of Department, CFOs, our Director-General, Cabinet colleagues and our Premier,” added Minister Baartman.
One area the provincial government has focused heavily on over the past several years is easing or eradicating bureaucratic red tape. To this end, the Red Tape Reduction Unit was established to assist in making it easier for businesses to operate in the province. This initiative was honoured at the awards ceremony in the “Public Policy and Support Institutions Category.”
Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said “I warmly congratulate our Red Tape Reduction Unit on receiving this prestigious award. This recognition affirms the critical work we are doing to remove barriers to growth and to build a capable, enabling state. A kinder state is one that removes obstacles, not creates them — and our Red Tape Reduction Unit is the practical expression of that commitment. By cutting unnecessary bureaucracy and supporting businesses to invest and grow, the unit is strengthening confidence in our economy, unlocking opportunities, and helping us deliver jobs for the people of the Western Cape.”
Premier Alan Winde lauded all Western Cape Government officials who continue to drive innovation in the province.
“Innovation is key value of our government. We employ innovation in every department. Congratulations to the teams across the Western Cape Government on the outstanding recognition we have received. These accolades reflect our commitment to innovation, excellence, and delivering better services that create opportunities for residents and drive economic growth. Thank you to every official and partner whose dedication and creativity continue to make the Western Cape a leader in innovation and good governance.” The Premier concluded.
