Funding — Black-Owned SMMEs
R1.32 Billion for Black-Owned Businesses: Inside Microsoft's Mission Next Programme
A 10-year, three-track commitment giving up to 250 South African SMMEs access to Microsoft's technology, AI skills training, and its partner network.
R1.32bn
Total commitment
250
SMMEs targeted
10 yrs
Programme duration
3
Funding tracks
What It Is
Mission Next is Microsoft South Africa’s Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP) — a R1.32 billion, B-BBEE-aligned commitment aimed at South Africa’s most ambitious Black-owned SMMEs. Rather than a single grant, it’s structured as three separate tracks so businesses at different stages can find the right fit.
The Three Tracks
Which one fits your business?
SMME Acceleration
For established Black-owned businesses with R1m+ in revenue, ready to scale with Microsoft’s technology and partner ecosystem.
Township Challenge
Focused specifically on township-based enterprises, addressing the access gap that keeps many local businesses out of mainstream tech support.
Tech Startup Support
For SMMEs building tech-driven products, with direct access to AI, machine learning and cybersecurity skills development.
What's Included
Beyond the funding itself, selected businesses get access to Microsoft technology and digital tools, AI/machine learning and cybersecurity skills training, mentorship from industry experts, and a route into Microsoft’s local and global partner ecosystem — the kind of access that’s normally out of reach for a small business without a corporate budget.
How To Apply
Apply directly through Microsoft South Africa. Confirm your track and current application window before submitting, as programme details are managed by Microsoft, not FAIR SA.
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A note on accuracy
We do our best to bring you accurate, current information on AI tools, funding opportunities, and developments relevant to South African communities, schools, and small businesses. Deadlines, eligibility criteria, pricing, and programme details change quickly and are set by the organisations offering them, not by FAIR SA — so please verify directly with the source before applying, purchasing, or making a decision based on anything in this article.
Spot something that’s changed or out of date? Let us know at hello@fairsa.org and we’ll fix it.