e4 and Tushiyah invest in the next generation of KwaZulu-Natal's ICT entrepreneurs

Durban, South Africa – 18 August 2026 - A new group of aspiring ICT entrepreneurs from KwaZulu-Natal have officially begun their enterprise development journey through the e4 Enterprise Development Programme, delivered in partnership with Tushiyah Xchange.

The latest intake marks another milestone in the eight-year partnership between e4 and Tushiyah, an award-winning Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) specialist. Together, the organisations are helping small businesses develop the skills, commercial capability and industry networks needed to build sustainable businesses and participate more meaningfully in South Africa's digital economy.

Small and medium-sized enterprises remain central to South Africa's economic future, yet many entrepreneurs face significant barriers to growth. By combining practical business development, governance and compliance guidance, market access opportunities and operational support, the programme equips participants with the foundations needed to become competitive, resilient businesses.

Programme support and participant development

The programme builds on a proven track record of supporting ICT start-ups through targeted business training, coaching, business growth support and access to market opportunities. Previous participants have strengthened their operational capabilities, secured new commercial opportunities and, in some cases, achieved internationally recognised certifications such as ISO 27001, opening the door to larger corporate contracts.

The initiative forms part of e4's Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) and socio-economic transformation strategy, which includes investing in education, digital skills development, entrepreneurship and enterprise development. Through partnerships such as Tushiyah, the company is helping to create a more inclusive technology ecosystem while supporting the growth of small businesses with the potential to contribute to South Africa's economy.

Leadership perspectives on the partnership

"The success of South Africa's digital economy depends on the success of its entrepreneurs," says Phylla Jele, HR & Transformation Executive at e4. "For the past eight years, we have proudly partnered with Tushiyah because we have seen first-hand the impact they make in developing skills, creating opportunities and empowering future technology professionals and business owners. Our role is to invest in programmes that create meaningful opportunities, while Tushiyah brings the expertise and experience that help entrepreneurs turn potential into long-term success."

"As this new cohort begins its journey, we encourage every participant to embrace the opportunity ahead," adds Jele. "The knowledge, relationships and experience gained through this programme have the potential to become the foundation for thriving businesses, new jobs and lasting economic impact. We are excited to see what this next generation of entrepreneurs will achieve."

As the newest participants begin the programme, e4 and Tushiyah remain committed to creating opportunities that extend beyond skills development by helping promising ICT businesses become sustainable enterprises capable of creating employment, driving innovation and strengthening South Africa's digital economy.   Ends.