Johannesburg Innovation Exchange (JIX) Gig-Economy Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 – YOA

Deadline: July 17, 2026

Applications are open for the Johannesburg Innovation Exchange (JIX) Gig-Economy Entrepreneurship Programme 2026. The Johannesburg Innovation Exchange (JIX) is a youth innovation and entrepreneurship initiative commissioned by the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Economic Development (IRED Unit) and delivered by Wits Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct. It is designed to develop inclusive financial participation throughout Johannesburg’s interior metropolis by backing the younger people who find themselves already constructing their very own revenue.

JIX Launchpad is the programme’s flagship incubation stream. It meets gig-economic system entrepreneurs the place they’re — freelancers, content material creators, designers, tailors, meals distributors, drivers, tradespeople and repair suppliers who’re already incomes however lack the construction, data, networks and digital expertise to show a hustle right into a sturdy enterprise. Over a targeted, sensible programme of workshops, one-on-one mentorship, enterprise clinics and a public Demo Day, contributors construct a whole enterprise toolkit and a reputable plan to develop.

The programme will consist of two Cohorts of 4 weeks every. Each cohort runs an intensive 4-week curriculum constructed round the actual challenges gig entrepreneurs face. Every week combines an in-individual workshop at Tshimologong with mentorship and a sensible deliverable, so contributors depart every module with one thing they will use instantly.

Cost

• The program is free for chosen candidates.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be aged 18–35 on the time of application (Youth mandate)
• Live within the City of Johannesburg — proof of residence required if shortlisted
• Already incomes from gig work or self-employment
• Live within the City of Johannesburg
• Able to decide to at the very least 70% of programme periods
• South African citizen or everlasting resident
• Open to all gig classes — digital, inventive, trades and providers.

Application

Click here to apply

For extra info, go to JIX Gig-Economy Entrepreneurship Programme.