2023 LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
START-UP SUPPORT PROGRAM


Create

Create momentum for, and drive projects and programs in the city that innovatively tackle social, system and structure issues that hinder growth and perpetuate poverty.

Collaborate

Collaborate with, and connect, stakeholders from all spheres, to work together to 'disrupt’ thinking, and practice and create new opportunities for active participation by all in growth and renewal.

Connect

Connect those in need with real opportunity, by providing practical tools, training, access to resources and support for self-improvement, business start ups and community-building and upliftment.

Celebrate

Celebrate the city of Durban, promote all that it has done, and will do, for its citizens, to attract, retain and support the business and investors needed to underpin growth and development.

Start-up
support program

The Start-up Support Programme is a 12-month accelerated mentorship programme providing business and technical skills in the early stage innovation. The programme is aimed at supporting Local Economic Development focused innovators and start-ups grow and propel their innovations and business forward.

What is Innovation?

Innovation can be defined simply as a “new idea, device, or method”. However, innovation is often also viewed as the application of better solutions that meet new requirements, needs, or existing market needs. The term “innovation” can be defined as something original and more effective.

innovation
for local economic development

Innovation for LED is an innovative sustainable and socially driven product or service that aims to create opportunities of employment and growth economically for surrounding communities.

 

What is local economic development?

Local Economic Development is an approach towards economic development which allows and encourages local people to work together to achieve sustainable economic growth and development thereby bringing economic benefits and improved quality of life for all residents in a local municipal area.

WHO CAN APPLY?

·      Must be South African citizen

·      Must be 18 years or older

·      Innovation must be early or pre-prototype stage

·      Innovation must seek to address an economic challenge prevalent in the community. The solution must be geared towards unlock value in a local economic value chain

·      People living with disabilities and female innovators are welcome to apply

 

How to apply?

Complete the application form by clicking on button below.
Applications close 15 January 2022