Empowering vulnerable youth

through entrepreneurship and technology

Emergent Academy is an entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports youth entrepreneurs to conceptualize, build and scale sustainable businesses.


Impact Stories

"I have come to understand that business is more than the service I render. My eyes were opened after joining Dream Factory. I cannot thank this vision enough for it has opened my eyes."

Zandile

Mam Mehlo's Beauty Studio

"I started a business with little to no knowledge. The emergent program is one of the best choices I have made. Implementing the trainings and feedback put my business on another level."

Nafeesah Dante

Bo-kaap's Finest

"I based the operation of the business on mere passion and perseverance and not the operation side and compliance. I now apply accounting, structure and marketing in my business."

Natasha Lekker

Aleluta

"I learnt a lot to take my business forward from doing everything to breaking down how my business will grow by implementing systems and managing / working is totally different "

Charnee Swartz

Akurah Group

Our Impact

678

total youth businesses supported since 2018

80%

survival rate

40+

businesses enrolled in the Business Accelerator Program annually

3000

businesses trained on digital marketing

R4 999 336

Total portfolio revenue (2023 financial year)

Our Funding Partners

Afrilabs
Lemonade
Ande
Hci
Google
Bowmans

Awards and Recognitions

2019

USAID Young Women Transform Prize

2022

Google.org Impact Challenge Accelerator: Women and Girls

2019

Facebook Community Leadership Fellowship

2021

South Africa Women Entrepreneurs Climate Change Awards

Help us make a difference