Green & Digital Incubation Programme – Apply Now!
Most startups in Africa do not fail because of a bad idea. They fail because of limited access to capital, networks, and the right rooms.
The Le Shiftlab Green and Digital Incubation Programme is designed to change that for entrepreneurs in South Africa, Malawi, and Lesotho.
About the Programme
The Le Shift Lab – Green + Digital Incubation Programme is an initiative supported by the French Embassy and hosted at Wits University’s Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct.
It aims to empower early‑stage entrepreneurs by providing the mentorship, resources, and global connections needed to scale innovations and address real climate challenges.
What You Will Gain
Selected founders will receive:
- International investor exposure
- Investment readiness preparation
- Access to world‑class research and makerspace facilities
- One‑to‑one dedicated mentorship
- Direct access to French Greentech networks and European innovation ecosystems
The impact of a programme like this goes beyond the cohort year. Founders who develop investor‑ready fundamentals and build international connections carry that advantage into every funding round, partnership, and growth stage.
The Twin Transition Journey
This programme bridges green technology and digital innovation, enabling entrepreneurs to leverage:
- Sustainable engineering and renewable energy solutions
- IoT and smart data systems
- AI‑driven innovations such as digital twins
- Cross‑border collaboration between Africa and Europe
Programme Timeline
The programme runs over 9 months, taking ventures from prototype to global readiness:
- June 2026: Programme kickoff and onboarding
- July 2026 – January 2027: Intensive mentorship and development phase
- March 2027: Demo Day (pitch to international investors)
- Q2 2027: France immersion trip for top‑performing businesses
The France Connection
Top participants will benefit from:
- A one‑week immersion in the French tech ecosystem
- Pre‑arranged B2B meetings with corporate leaders and investors
- International masterclasses in cleantech, AI, and digital innovation
Who Should Apply
This programme is open to visionary founders who are:
- Building early‑stage greentech or climate solutions
- Using digital innovation for environmental impact
- Based in South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi
- Passionate about scaling impactful ideas
- Women‑led businesses are strongly encouraged to apply
Why This Matters
This is more than an incubation programme. It is an opportunity to:
- Unlock access to global markets and networks
- Build investor‑ready, scalable businesses
- Solve real climate challenges in Africa
- Transform innovative ideas into impactful ventures
Deadline: Wednesday, 20 May 2026.