For over a decade, SME South Africa has played a pivotal role in equipping South African entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to thrive. Behind this mission is Velly Bosega, a digital media entrepreneur who transformed the platform into a go-to resource for the country's small business community.

In this episode of Connect South with Mashudu Modau, Velly shares how acquiring SME South Africa in 2014 was more than a business decision — it was a calling to serve. He dives into the platform’s evolution, from a traditional media brand to a dynamic digital ecosystem serving over 100,000 users a month.

We explore:

• What South African entrepreneurs really need today

• The role of content and community in supporting small business growth

• How SME South Africa is addressing systemic gaps in the ecosystem

• Why collaboration is the future of SME development

  
  

Whether you're building a digital platform, running a small business, or working to grow the entrepreneurial ecosystem in South Africa, this episode is full of insight, strategy, and inspiration.

In this episode of Connect South, we sit down with Tsepo Petla, Head of Business Development at Telkom FutureMakers, to explore how this enterprise and supplier development program is empowering South African entrepreneurs. Tsepo shares insights on FutureMakers' decade-long journey in supporting ICT startups, township-based tech innovators, and black-owned businesses. From ideation to scaling, learn how FutureMakers is shaping the future of entrepreneurship through funding, incubation, and mentorship. We also discuss the impact of their Township Incubation Program, upcoming AI-focused accelerators, and how entrepreneurs can get involved.

South Africa’s digital skills gap is a major challenge for entrepreneurs and small businesses. In this episode of Connect South, we speak to Lebogang Luvuno, B-BBEE Executive at Microsoft South Africa, about how Microsoft is investing in the future of entrepreneurship through digital skills development, enterprise support, and access to market opportunities.

We cover:

• Microsoft’s R1.3 billion investment in digital skills and black-owned businesses
• The role of AI and emerging technologies in entrepreneurship and job creation
• How small businesses can break into corporate supply chains
• The real impact of Microsoft’s programs, from rural tech training centers to enterprise development

If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or passionate about South Africa’s digital future, this episode is packed with valuable insights. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to Connect South for more conversations on South Africa’s startup ecosystem!