We are pleased to announce the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) as the first confirmed partner for the 2nd Bi-Annual TVET & Technology Business Incubator/Accelerator Learning Lab 2025. As the Technology Innovation & Entrepreneurship Enabling Partner, TIA’s participation strengthens our commitment to advancing artisanal grassroots innovation, 4IR digital transition in TVET, and the development of future-ready occupational qualifications.
A particularly exciting area of focus at LLab-25 will be the development of new risk capital instruments at the pre-seed and seed stage to support artisanal innovation for commercialisation. “Many of our youth possess exceptional artisanal talent and innovative capabilities to solve some of SA pressing challenges, yet they lack access to early-stage investment. Addressing this gap is critical for unlocking South Africa’s next wave of industrial innovation,” says Tervern Jaftha, CEO & Founder of Start-Up Culture.
Additionally, LLab-25 will facilitate discussions on extending technology support instruments and rapid prototyping facilities within TVET Enterprise Hubs, leveraging proven TIA models. These interventions are essential for enabling hands-on innovation, ensuring that TVET institutions become catalysts for industrial and digital transformation.

With momentum building, we look forward to onboarding more strategic partners in the coming weeks & months as we prepare for Learning Lab 2025, TJ “Empowering Artisanal Digital Innovation.”