Introduction

The UCT GSB Solution Space, in partnership with ayoba, has announced the selection of 15 promising startups for the second phase of the e-Track programme. This initiative is designed to support early-stage ventures in transitioning from the proof of concept stage to being ready for investment. The programme is a significant opportunity for startups to accelerate their growth and secure crucial investor backing.

The e-Track Programme: A Launchpad for High-Impact Entrepreneurs

Run by the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB) through its specialised Solution Space centre, the e-Track programme provides an intensive support system for high-potential startups. Sponsored by ayoba, the programme equips entrepreneurs with the resources and guidance needed to scale their ventures. It is a two-phase initiative that addresses both the conceptualisation and development stages of a business, providing a roadmap from idea validation to investment readiness.

Two Phases of Entrepreneurial Acceleration

The programme is divided into two key phases:

Phase One: Venture Launch
The first phase, called the Venture Launch, focuses on helping participants validate their venture concepts. It is open to entrepreneurs developing both for-profit and non-profit scale-ups. During this stage, startups receive hands-on support to refine their ideas, ensuring their business models are viable and market-ready.

Phase Two: Venture Acceleration
Upon successful completion of Phase One, participants receive a certificate from UCT GSB and are invited to pitch for the highly competitive second phase. Only 15 startups are selected for Phase Two, which focuses on accelerating their validated business models. This phase culminates in a pitch day, where these startups present to an audience of potential investors, venture capitalists, and other ecosystem enablers.

The 15 Startups Selected for Phase Two

This year's cohort of Phase Two participants includes 15 startups, with 10 originating from South Africa. These innovative businesses span various industries and are poised to make a significant impact:

South African Startups: Connected, Dormify, Eazy Way Rides, ElektroPlug, Legal Tech Eco System, Natihub, Regasis, Tetafi, Voco, and Zipterview.

Other African Startups: Kenya is represented by Ça Va Commoditech Ventures and Hoptics, while Nigeria’s Doorcas Africa, Ethiopia’s Guaro Farms, and Uganda’s Yee FM round out the group of selected ventures.

12 Weeks of Strategic Growth and Development

Over the next 12 weeks, these 15 startups will embark on an intensive journey to refine their business models and hone their strategies. The programme offers a combination of expert-led masterclasses and personalised coaching sessions. Key areas covered include:

  • Brand development
  • Pitching techniques
  • Intellectual property strategy
  • Financial management and accounting
  • Legal advisory

These sessions are designed to prepare the startups for their final demo day, a critical event where they will pitch their refined businesses to a panel of potential investors and ecosystem builders.

Demo Day: The Road to Investment

The e-Track programme will conclude on November 28 with a highly anticipated demo day. Here, each startup will have the chance to showcase their progress, pitch their ventures, and potentially secure investment that could propel their growth to the next level. This final event marks the culmination of months of hard work, with participants poised to leverage the platform to reach new heights in their entrepreneurial journeys.