Telkom FutureMakers powers ICT driven solutions with Soweto social entrepreneurs

The Township Innovation Incubator programme launched by Telkom FutureMakers in 2021, enables township-based technology social entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to access technology development support,....

financial and non-financial business support services, to turn their ideas into viable, commercial and scalable solutions that can help address social challenges in their communities and the broader market.

Following an intensive and rigorous recruitment process, 11 entrepreneurs were selected to be part of the programme from the over 100 entries received.

Support for entrepreneurs in the programme includes:-

• Business ideation and validation support using design thinking methodology
• Accredited Tech Skills Capacity Development Training
• Solution Design and Development Support to create the MVP so that they can go to market
• Social and market access through Telkom and its partners
• Access to funding

Mmathebe Zvobwo, The Enterprise and Supplier Development Executive at Telkom commented, “ICT is globally recognised as one of the industries that can provide tangible opportunities for employment and more importantly, youth employment,  we are pleased with the results of the current cohort  and excited about what other solutions this programme will enable when we embark on a national roll-out of the programme in other townships.

Zvobwo added, “Through the programme Telkom FutureMakers is helping, ICT- led township businesses to commercially launch viable businesses. We are confident that Telkom is providing critical support to help local businesses move from idea to commercialisation while they position themselves as attractive and viable assets for investors,” concludes Zvobwo.

The Township Innovation Incubation programme started working with township-based ICT entrepreneurs in February 2021 as part of the telecommunications company’s Enterprise and Supplier Development programme.

One of the success stories of Telkom’s FutureMakers Township Incubator Programme is Baadaye led by Katlego Sekete a social crowd funding platform assisting public schools to create awareness and raise funds to address various social issues affecting the school like poor sanitation. "The programme has equipped me with tools that have allowed me to think about different ways in which I can better structure and monetize my business," said Katlego Sekete from Baadaye. 

Another success story is the Soweto based Bophelo Mpilo who recently signed a contract with the National Department of Health to be part of the Central Chronic Medication Dispensing and Distribution programme to set up pick-up points and offer a door-step delivery of medication. The business is working closely with BCX to develop a technology solution that will enable this process to be efficient and effective.

Telkom FutureMakers approved R100 000 in grant funding for each of the 11 entrepreneurs, in the first round to help with critical traction building activities, before they pitch for the second round of funding in the new year.  Unlike most incubator programmes, these entrepreneurs are not competing for the number one spot at the end of the programme but each are receiving critical support to bring their ideas to life.

“Each entrepreneur is supported based on merit and potential of their businesses.  We are building a community of high-growth and sustainable businesses that help solve real problems. These entrepreneurs are developing high-quality, scalable and impactful businesses demystifying the idea that township entrepreneurs are capable only to build spaza shops, internet café and informal vendors,” said Xoliswa Moraka, from the Programme Management company, A-plus Consulting.