Strategic Programmes and Services Advancing ESD, SME Growth and Sustainable Impact

Each listing on Our Programmes and Services page has an Apply Now button

YIEDI offers a wide range of enterprise and supplier development (ESD) programmes, SME acceleration and incubation support, market-access initiatives, youth and women development programmes, innovation labs, entrepreneurship training and ESG-aligned impact solutions.

We offer both accredited and non-accredited learning pathways from learnerships to enterprise development bootcamps.

Our programmes are designed for corporates, government partners, development organisations, SMEs, early-stage entrepreneurs and established enterprises seeking structured support, business growth and measurable development outcomes.

Not necessarily! Some of our programmes are designed for aspiring entrepreneurs or start-ups. For certain SME acceleration or supplier-development programmes, a registered business may be required; in those cases we will make the requirement explicit on the Apply Now form.

Programme fees (if any) vary by track — some are fully funded via corporate or development partners, while others may require a contribution. Details on costs (if applicable) are shared in the application form or during onboarding so you know up front.

No. We have programmes ranging from entry-level (e.g. “Entrepreneurship 101”, “Business in a Box”) to more advanced acceleration tracks. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an established SME, there is a programme suited to your stage.

It depends on the programme. Some — like the “TVET Online Business in a Box” — are fully online, while others are in-person or a hybrid of online training + in-person mentorship/workshops. The delivery mode is specified in the programme description when you click Apply Now.

Many of YIEDI’s programmes include mentorship, business coaching, access to networks, supplier-development support, and  where possible linkages to market or opportunities. Some may also provide support for funding, supplier contracts, or corporate procurement access, depending on the track.

Programme duration varies significantly  from short trainings of a few weeks (e.g. “Business Unboxed”, “Entrepreneurship 101”) to longer incubator/acceleration programmes depending on the complexity and objectives of the track.

Outcomes may include a validated business concept, a registered and compliant SME, access to mentorship networks, improved business capacity, readiness for supply-chain entry, or even accreditation depending on the programme. Many alumni go on to secure clients, form partnerships, or grow revenues.

Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each programme. We encourage interested entrepreneurs or SMEs to pick the track(s) that best align with their needs and stage, but you may submit separate applications for different programmes if relevant.

Once you submit an application (via the “Apply Now” button), you’ll be screened based on eligibility (business stage, industry, readiness, etc.). Selected applicants are then notified for onboarding, which may include an orientation session, profiling, and scheduling of training or mentorship.

In many cases, yes. YIEDI aims for long-term impact, so we often maintain alumni networks, offer follow-up mentorship or support, and provide access to further programmes, resources, or opportunities in our ecosystem.