The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 is now officially open, offering unemployed youth in Gauteng an opportunity to gain practical technology, business, and entrepreneurship skills. The programme is implemented by Itani Technology Investments, in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, and is available through the SA Youth platform.
Designed to respond to South Africa’s growing demand for digital skills and sustainable entrepreneurship, the programme focuses on ICT business skills development and new venture creation, equipping participants with the tools needed to start, manage, and grow technology-enabled businesses.
ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 Overview
The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 is a structured skills development initiative that combines technical ICT exposure with entrepreneurship training. Rather than focusing only on employment readiness, the programme places strong emphasis on new venture creation, encouraging participants to build businesses within the ICT sector.
Key Programme Information
- 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
- Closing Date: 12 February 2026
- Application Platform: SA Youth (online)
This initiative aligns with provincial and national economic goals aimed at youth empowerment, digital transformation, and small business development.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
Why ICT Business Skills and New Venture Creation Matter in 2026
South Africa’s economy is undergoing rapid digital transformation. Businesses increasingly rely on technology for operations, service delivery, and growth. At the same time, youth unemployment remains a major challenge. Programmes that combine ICT skills with entrepreneurship are becoming critical pathways to economic participation.
Addressing Skills Gaps in the ICT Sector
The ICT sector continues to experience a shortage of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs who understand both technology and business fundamentals. This programme addresses that gap by:
- Teaching ICT-related business skills
- Developing entrepreneurial thinking
- Supporting new venture creation within the digital economy
Supporting Sustainable Self-Employment
Rather than focusing solely on job placement, the programme encourages participants to explore self-employment and enterprise development, enabling long-term income generation and job creation.
ICT Business Skills Development Focus Areas
Participants in the ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 are exposed to a range of skills designed to prepare them for the modern digital economy.
Core ICT Business Skills
The programme covers foundational business competencies relevant to the ICT sector, including:
- Digital business operations
- Basic software and systems concepts
- ICT project fundamentals
- Technology-enabled service delivery
These skills help participants understand how ICT supports business growth across various industries.
Entrepreneurial and Business Management Skills
A major component of the programme focuses on entrepreneurship and business readiness:
- Business planning and modelling
- Financial literacy and budgeting
- Marketing and customer acquisition
- Compliance and basic business registration knowledge
This balanced approach ensures participants are not only technically aware but also business-ready.
New Venture Creation in the ICT Sector
One of the defining features of this programme is its emphasis on new venture creation. Participants are encouraged to identify opportunities within the ICT space and develop practical solutions that can be transformed into viable businesses.
From Idea to Business Concept
Through guided training, participants learn how to:
- Identify market needs
- Validate business ideas
- Develop minimum viable products or services
- Understand customer value propositions
Encouraging Innovation and Problem-Solving
New venture creation training helps participants apply ICT solutions to real-world challenges, particularly in areas such as:
- Digital services
- Small business technology support
- Online platforms and tools
- ICT-enabled community solutions
This approach aligns with global best practices in entrepreneurship development.
Who Should Apply for the ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026
The programme is aimed primarily at unemployed youth who are interested in ICT, entrepreneurship, and business development.
Ideal Candidates
You should consider applying if you:
- Are unemployed and seeking skills development
- Have an interest in ICT or digital business
- Want to start or grow a technology-related business
- Are based in Gauteng or able to attend training in Sandton
No advanced technical background is required, making the programme accessible to a wide range of applicants.
Programme Duration, Certification, and Benefits
Duration and Structure
The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 runs for 6 to 12 months, depending on the learning phase and practical components.
Accredited Certification
Participants who successfully complete the programme receive an accredited certification, which adds value to both employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Skills and Career Benefits
Graduates of the programme gain:
- Practical ICT business knowledge
- Entrepreneurship and venture development skills
- Exposure to real-world business environments
- A stronger foundation for employment or self-employment
Application Process for ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026
Applications for the programme are submitted online via the SA Youth platform.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application page on SA Youth
- Log in or create an SA Youth profile
- Complete the application form
- Submit your application before the closing date
Official application link: https://sayouth.mobi/View/DirectOpportunity?opportunity=1979050
Closing Date Reminder
- Applications close on 12 February 2026
- Late applications are not accepted
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Final Thoughts on ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026
The ICT Business Skills & New Venture Creation Programme 2026 – Now Open offers more than just training. It provides unemployed youth with a pathway into the digital economy through practical skills, entrepreneurship development, and accredited learning.
By combining ICT business skills with new venture creation, the programme supports both employability and self-employment, contributing to long-term economic participation and innovation in Gauteng.
Applicants who are serious about building a future in ICT or launching a technology-driven business are encouraged to apply before the 12 February 2026 closing date.
