Welcome to Hempire-EC

Harnessing the Power of Hemp and Cannabis for Economic Empowerment in the Eastern Cape

17

Communities Developed

68

Hectares Land Developed

200+

Individuals Empowered


Hempire-EC is being incubated under the Non-Automotive Manufacturing (NAM) Cluster to accelerate its establishment, implementation and impact.

This is

Born as an initiative between the Dept of Small Business Development (DSBD) and the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA), Hempire-EC is an industrial sector-benefit organization (an Industrial Cluster) dedicated to leveraging the natural resources of the Eastern Cape, particularly industrial hemp and cannabis, to foster economic inclusion for black industrialists.
Our objective is to create sustainable economic opportunities, economic inclusion and drive community development through innovative and responsible use of these valuable resources.

Mission
Statement

At Hempire-EC, our mission is to harness the natural endowments of the Eastern Cape, specifically hemp and cannabis, to create opportunities for economic inclusion of black industrialists. We aim to empower communities through sustainable development, education, and innovative agricultural practices.

Vision
Statement

Our vision is to become a leading catalyst for economic transformation in the Eastern Cape by pioneering the sustainable cultivation and processing of hemp and cannabis. We envision a thriving economy where black industrialists are at the forefront of growth and innovation, driving prosperity and social equity.

Our Trusted Partners

Our Services

Advocacy, Lobbying, and Stakeholder Education:

Hempire-EC plays a crucial role in shaping the regulatory landscape for the hemp and cannabis industry. Through advocacy and lobbying efforts, the cluster works to influence policy decisions at local, provincial, and national levels, ensuring that the legal framework supports the growth and sustainability of the industry. They also focus on educating stakeholders, including government officials, businesses, and the public, about the benefits and potential of hemp and cannabis, helping to dispel myths and build broad-based support for the industry.

Market Development

Recognizing the importance of market access for industry growth, Hempire-EC actively works to identify and develop new markets for hemp and cannabis products. This includes conducting market research, facilitating trade missions, and building relationships with buyers and distributors both locally and internationally. The cluster also supports businesses in developing competitive products, branding, and marketing strategies that align with market demands, helping to ensure their success in a rapidly evolving industry.

Training and Mentorship

To build a skilled workforce and empower entrepreneurs in the hemp and cannabis sector, Hempire-EC offers comprehensive training and mentorship programs. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including cultivation techniques, processing methods, compliance with regulations, business management, and product development. Through partnerships with educational institutions and industry experts, the cluster provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to succeed in the industry.

Development of Black
Industrialists

Hempire-EC is committed to fostering inclusive growth in the hemp and cannabis industry by supporting the development of Black industrialists. The cluster initiates and manages catalytic projects that are designed to empower Black entrepreneurs and businesses, providing them with the resources, training, and support needed to thrive. These projects often involve collaboration with government agencies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders, ensuring that participants have access to funding, mentorship, and market opportunities. By focusing on the development of Black industrialists, Hempire-EC is helping to create a more equitable and diverse industry landscape.

Get In Touch With Us

We would love to hear from you! Whether you are a farmer, entrepreneur, or community member, your participation is crucial to our mission.
Offices
  • InvestSA One Stop Shop,
    12 Esplanade Road. Quigney,
    East London, 5201
    Eastern Cape, South Africa
Join us at Hempire-EC and be a part of the economic transformation in the Eastern Cape!
Copyright © 2024. Hempire EC. All rights reserved.