Local start-up assistance

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting the development of financially and socially sustainable businesses within the local community. This commitment is realised through a variety of programmes and resources designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary skills, mentorship, and facilities.

Centre for Entrepreneurship

Established in 2006, the Johannesburg Business School Centre for Entrepreneurship (JBSCE) at UJ serves as an incubation hub focused on the needs of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) from economically disadvantaged communities. The centre offers integrated entrepreneurial development support, including specialised courses aimed at nurturing start-ups and enhancing existing businesses. By providing tailored training and resources, the JBSCE plays a pivotal role in promoting economic participation and growth within the local community. 

Small Business Enrichment Programme (SBEP)

The Small Business Enrichment Programme (SBEP) is designed to empower existing business owners and entrepreneurs through comprehensive training. In 2018, the programme was enhanced to include intensive project management tools and the introduction of the Business Canvas model, assisting entrepreneurs in developing effective business turnaround strategies. These improvements aim to provide participants with practical skills and methodologies to navigate the complexities of business management successfully. 

Technopreneurship Centre

UJ’s Technopreneurship Centre functions as an innovation hub where students collaborate with industry partners to address pressing challenges through technological solutions. The centre offers services such as ideation workshops, hackathon competitions, mentorship, and coaching. By fostering an environment that encourages the development of intelligent software systems, mobile applications, and other technological innovations, the centre contributes to the creation of sustainable businesses that can effectively compete in the modern economy. 

Enterprise and Supplier Development

UJ’s commitment to supporting local businesses is further demonstrated through its Enterprise and Supplier Development initiatives. These programmes aim to bolster black-owned SMMEs by providing managerial skills transfer, mentorship, and assistance in developing ICT solutions, including interactive website design and user-friendly accounting applications. Such support is instrumental in enhancing the operational efficiency and competitiveness of local enterprises.

Short Learning Programmes in Applied Entrepreneurship

To address the educational needs of local economic development practitioners, UJ offers Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) in Applied Entrepreneurship. These courses are tailored to broaden and deepen the knowledge and skills of individuals involved in training and supporting entrepreneurs and SMMEs at the local government level. The curriculum focuses on promoting economic development, creating employment opportunities, reducing poverty, and improving service delivery to local communities.

Through these comprehensive initiatives, the University of Johannesburg actively contributes to the empowerment of local entrepreneurs, facilitating the growth of sustainable businesses that drive economic and social development within the community.