If you've walked through Innovation City recently, you've probably noticed it.

A bright red telephone sitting in the space, inviting curious founders, operators and builders to pick it up, scan a QR code, and potentially walk away with R50,000.

But behind the competition is a broader conversation about something every business depends on: getting paid!

Payfast by Network recently launched the activation at Innovation City as a way to connect directly with founders and SMEs while highlighting the role that payment experiences play in growth, customer retention, and cash flow.

We caught up with the team to find out where the idea came from, why they chose Innovation City, and what businesses should be thinking about when it comes to payments in 2026.

Q: Payfast by Network recently installed a bright red phone at Innovation City that invites people to pick it up, scan a QR code, and stand a chance to win R50,000. Where did the idea come from?

The idea came from wanting to meet South African founders where they actually are, not at a once off conference, but in the spaces where they're building every day. We wanted something bold enough to stop people in their tracks and invite them to engage straight away. The red phone does exactly that. It's hard to ignore, and it creates a moment of interaction that mirrors what Payfast by Network does for businesses: making it simple to connect and get paid.

Q: What was the thinking behind using something as unexpected and physical as a red phone for a fintech campaign?

Most payment brands show up with a banner and a brochure. We wanted something you couldn't walk past without wondering what it was. There's also something very deliberate about a telephone, it implies a direct line, with someone ready to answer on the other end. For South African founders who've spent time on hold with faceless platforms, that message lands differently. It breaks patterns, starts conversations, and turns a simple message into something memorable.

Q: What happens once someone scans the QR code, and what are you hoping people take away from the experience?

You scan, enter your details, and you're in the draw to win R50,000 and every step you take from there, whether that's booking a meeting or becoming a Payfast merchant, earns you another entry. But the bigger takeaway is that the scan connects you directly to the Payfast team. A real conversation about your business, your payment setup, and how we can help you grow faster. We want founders to leave feeling like they've been seen, not just captured.

Q: Beyond the competition element, what does “get paid faster” actually mean for South African businesses today?

For South African businesses, getting paid faster means better cash flow and more control. It means being able to pay suppliers on time, take on new opportunities and keep operations running smoothly. Faster payments help turn effort into income without delays.

Q: What are the biggest payment or cash flow frustrations SMEs and founders are still dealing with in 2026?

Late payments, slow settlement times and limited payment options remain key challenges. Many businesses still lose sales at checkout due to friction or lack of preferred payment methods. Cash flow pressure continues to be one of the biggest barriers to growth.

Q: Why did Payfast by Network choose Innovation City as the home for this activation?

Innovation City brings together founders, builders and businesses who are shaping the future. It’s the perfect environment to introduce a bold idea and connect with people who value speed, simplicity and growth. The audience is engaged, curious and open to new ways of doing things.

Q: Do businesses still underestimate how much payment friction impacts growth and customer experience?

Yes, and often more than they realise. Small delays or limited payment options can lead to lost sales and frustrated customers. Payments are no longer just the final step, they’re a key part of the customer experience and directly impact conversion and loyalty.

Q: Has speed become one of the biggest competitive advantages in digital commerce and payments?

Absolutely. Customers expect instant experiences, and businesses that can deliver on speed stand out. Faster payments can improve conversion, build trust and create a smoother overall experience.

Q: What has the response to the activation been like so far? Have people interacted with it the way you expected?

It’s still early days, but the response has been strong. The red phone has sparked curiosity and drawn people in, with many stopping to engage, scan and share the experience. It’s created the kind of attention and interaction we were hoping for.

Q: If you could give founders one piece of advice about payments, cash flow, or getting paid faster right now, what would it be?

Make it as easy as possible for your customers to pay you! The fewer barriers at checkout, the faster you get paid and the fewer sales you lose. Payments should support your growth, not slow it down.

The red phone will be at Innovation City for a limited time. If curiosity gets the better of you, pick it up, scan the QR code, and see where the conversation leads!