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Invest in the Future of Township Economies

We empower Black-owned businesses in South African townships to drive growth for micro-enterprises using innovative digital solutions.

Township Challenge Initiative

The Township Challenge Initiative under Microsoft's EEIP is   designed to empower and support black-owned micro-enterprises in   township economies through existing platforms, networks or similar businesses which have a wide base of micro enterprises they are already connected with.   We are looking for innovative investment ideas to drive impact across your business and your network.

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Key Objectives:

Network Expansion

Leverage existing business networks to drive benefit to hundreds or even thousands of micro-enterprises.

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Digital Innovation

Invite ideas on how such a network can develop AI or other digital technologies to the mutual benefit of the network business and the micro-enterprises with which they work.

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Win-Win Solutions

Fund creative approaches with the view to win-win mutually beneficial scenarios.

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Programme Highlights:

Microsoft is looking for innovative ways to digitally enable Micro Enterprises in the Townships. If you’re a black owned business and have a network of Township business relationships, we are looking for innovative ways to leverage your network to benefit you and especially your customers.

Maybe you’re a Point-of Sale Provider and could leverage the platform to bring a game-changing feature to your customers’ businesses with the right investment. Or maybe you’re in last-mile delivery, and have an idea to extend your service to Township businesses.

The goal is to invest in these creative ideas to drive digital change across our Townships.
Funding opportunities are provided to help cover operational costs, invest in growth initiatives, and expand market reach.
The chance to connect with potential investors, partners, and customers through various networking events and platforms is provided.

Who Should Apply?

If you operate in a Township and have a customer base of Micro Enterprises, we want to hear how you propose to use an investment in your business to the mutual benefit of your broader network!

Apply for the Township Challenge

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Research and Development

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