The City of Johannesburg, through the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), has launched the development of a Business Case and Concept Plan for the Empire Perth Innovation District — and is inviting the public and stakeholders to help shape its future.
The district is a bold initiative aimed at positioning Johannesburg as a leading hub for innovation, research, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. By bringing together businesses, universities, research institutions, innovators, and government, the district seeks to unlock new opportunities, attract investment, and create sustainable jobs for residents.
The Empire Perth Innovation District is envisioned as a vibrant, inclusive ecosystem where ideas can be tested, businesses can grow, and talent can thrive. The initiative will:
· Encourage collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector
· Support start‑ups, entrepreneurs, and innovation‑led enterprises
· Stimulate local economic development and regeneration
· Contribute to long‑term job creation and skills development
The Business Case and Concept Plan will act as a strategic roadmap, identifying priority interventions, catalytic projects, and partnership opportunities needed to turn the vision into reality. The study area extends from Helen Joseph Hospital to the University of Johannesburg’s Doornfontein Campus, with particular focus on the Empire–Perth Corridor — an area with significant potential for innovation‑driven urban renewal.
Your voice matters: Get involved
The City and JDA recognise that inclusive planning is essential to delivering a successful Innovation District. Community voices, institutional partners, businesses, and innovators all have a role to play. Two rounds of stakeholder engagement will be conducted to ensure that ideas, concerns, and aspirations are meaningfully integrated into the planning process.
As part of this process, members of the public and interested stakeholders are invited to participate in an online public meeting on Tuesday, 7 April 2026 from 17:00 – 20:00. This meeting will provide an opportunity to learn more about the project, share local insights, and help guide the future direction of the Innovation District.
Stakeholders who wish to take part in the study and attend the online public meeting are encouraged to contact the project team via email: nomim@nma.org.za
ISSUED BY THE CITY OF JOHANNEESBURG
