The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 is an exciting opportunity for young people in Gauteng who are looking for work. This program provides hands-on training in technology, business, and entrepreneurship. It is run by Itani Technology Investments in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development and is available through the SA Youth platform. The goal of this program is to equip unemployed youth with skills that can help them start and manage their own technology-focused businesses.
Overview of the Programme
This program is not just about getting ready for a job; it’s all about learning how to create a business. It aims at developing skills that can help participants launch their own ventures in the ICT (Information and Communications Technology) sector. The program includes a mix of technical training and entrepreneurship skills, making it well-rounded for those eager to jump into the digital business world.
Important Details About the Programme
- Programme Name: ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026
- Sponsor: Gauteng Department of Economic Development
- Implementing Partner: Itani Technology Investments
- Location: Sandton, Gauteng
- Duration: 6 to 12 months
- Certification: Accredited certification upon completion
- Application Closing Date: 12 February 2026
- How to Apply: Applications can be completed online via the SA Youth platform
This initiative works toward boosting youth empowerment, encouraging digital growth, and promoting small businesses in South Africa.
Why This Programme Counts in 2026
South Africa is increasingly moving towards a digital economy, where technology is essential for business growth. Unfortunately, many young people are still struggling to find jobs. Programs like this one that blend tech skills with the spirit of entrepreneurship can help address this issue, providing a pathway for young people to actively participate in the economy.
Closing the Skills Gap in ICT
The ICT sector in South Africa needs more skilled workers. Many young people don’t have the skills or knowledge to bridge the gap between technology and business. This program aims to tackle that by:
- Teaching essential ICT business skills
- Fostering entrepreneurial thinking
- Supporting new business creation in the digital market
Promoting Sustainable Self-Employment
Instead of just preparing people to find jobs, this program encourages participants to think about starting their own businesses and becoming self-sufficient. This focus on self-employment can lead to more job opportunities for others as well.
Skills You Will Learn
Participants will gain a variety of skills that are crucial for success in today’s digital market.
Core ICT Business Skills
The training covers essential knowledge needed for navigating the ICT landscape, including:
- Understanding digital business practices
- Learning basic software and systems
- Getting familiar with project fundamentals in ICT
- Knowing how technology helps service delivery
These skills will help you see how technology impacts business across different sectors.
Entrepreneurship and Business Management
A major focus of the program is on making you ready to launch and manage a business. You’ll learn about:
- How to create business plans and models
- Managing finances and budgeting
- Marketing your business and gaining customers
- Understanding business laws and registration processes
This balanced learning ensures you’re ready not just in technology, but also in running a successful business.
Creating New Ventures in ICT
An exciting part of this program is that it encourages you to come up with new business ideas in the ICT space. You will learn how to identify business needs and develop real-world solutions that can turn into successful companies.
Turning Ideas into Action
The training includes how to:
- Spot market opportunities
- Test and validate your business idea
- Create simple versions of your products or services
- Define what makes your offer valuable to customers
Inspiring Creativity and Problem Solving
You’ll be taught to apply tech solutions to real problems, focusing on areas like:
- Digital services for businesses
- Technology support for small businesses
- Tools for online operations
- Community-oriented ICT solutions
This gives you a chance to learn how global practices work in entrepreneurship.
Who Should Consider This Programme?
This program is perfect for young people without jobs who are interested in technology and business.
Ideal Candidates
You should think about applying if you:
- Are currently unemployed and need skill training
- Have a strong interest in digital businesses
- Want to start or expand a tech-driven business
- Are available to attend training in Sandton, Gauteng
No advanced experience in technology is necessary, making this program open to everyone.
Programme Duration, Certification, and Advantages
How Long Is the Programme?
The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 lasts between 6 to 12 months based on the learning and practical aspects.
Certification
At the end of the program, you will receive an accredited certificate that can help you in both job searching and entrepreneurship.
What You Will Gain
Graduates will walk away with:
- Hands-on knowledge of ICT business practices
- Skills in entrepreneurship and business growth
- Real-world experience in business settings
- A solid foundation for getting a job or starting your own business
Steps to Apply
You can apply online through the SA Youth platform. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the application page on SA Youth
- Log in or set up your SA Youth profile
- Fill out the application form
- Submit your application before the deadline
Make sure to apply before the 12 February 2026 closing date. If you miss it, late applications will not be accepted!
Final Call to Action
The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 is about more than just learning; it’s a step into a growing digital economy. It offers practical skills and development opportunities that are essential for improving your life and contributing to your community in Gauteng. If you’re serious about building a future in technology or launching a business in this sector, take the next step and apply before the closing date!
