History of the Cape IT Initiative (CITI)

CITI was founded in June 1998 by a group of business people who saw the potential to create an ICT (Information & Communications Technogies) networking and cluster development agency that brings together people, ideas and capital to create a strong ICT community, increase the attractiveness of the Cape as an IT location, stem the loss of professional skills to Gauteng and overseas, and attract inward investment.

A gathering was convened under the banner of a Cluster Muster, and at that meeting a strong consensus for action emerged and the foundations of the organisation were laid. The election of a board, creation of a Section 21 (Association incorporated not-for-gain) company with no shareholders, and appointment of an employed executive team followed, ensuring the organisation's sustainability and effectiveness.

Our Vision
The founding vision of CITI was the creation of an ICT cluster that is regionally and internationally recognised for excellence in its ability to innovate, generate investment, create jobs and grow revenue (all in a way which is inclusive of all communities within the Western Cape.)

Our Mission
CITI's mission is to stimulate and support the growth, promotion and transformation of the ICT cluster in the Western Cape, in collaboration with business, government, academia and other stakeholders.

Our Objectives
We aim to:

• Grow and develop ICT businesses through the Bandwidth Barn business accelerator
• Develop ICT skills and experience through close co-operation with all industry bodies, academia and other stakeholders
• Develop, promote and help transform the ICT cluster, by hosting events and industry round-tables, and by encouraging networking between ICT companies, government, academia and other stakeholders
• Develop and influence ICT policy by participating in national processes and commissioning relevant research

Our stakeholders
CITI's main stakeholders are City of Cape Town and the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, local ICT companies (including startups, SMME's and large companies) and individuals with ideas and inventions who want to start ICT businesses.