Western Cape government launches free tech startup investor course

The Western Cape government’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism is calling on digital entrepreneurs to apply for a free three-hour early-stage tech startup investment online course.

In a statement today, the department said the course — developed with assistance by Fraser Consulting and The Loudhailer — is an online programme comprised of seven video modules giving viewers insights into the early-stage investment landscape, along with the investment options available to them.

The modules are complemented by interviews with 20 industry experts from across the startup and investment ecosystem, including venture capital firms, impact investing funds and accelerators.

The content will be available free of charge on the department’s official e-learning platform.

The Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s course is comprised of seven video modules giving viewers insights into the early-stage investment landscape

Course participants will explore topics such as sourcing, assessing and making an investment and learn about regulatory issues affecting investors in South Africa.

The course covers the basics of early-stage investing from individual angel deals to Section 12J funds.

The first 35 people to register for the course will be invited to attend an exclusive event during the Southern African Venture Capital Association’s (Savca) 2020 conference at Hazendal Wine Estate, Stellenbosch on 25 February.

At the event the lucky 35 will have the chance to meet early-stage investment experts who appeared in the videos as well as build networks within the ecosystem.

Meanwhile last Thursday (27 February), Economic Development and Tourism MEC David Maynier signed a pledge of support for the early stage investment community together with the department’s deputy director-general Jo-Ann Johnston (pictured above, right and left, respectively).

The department said the course forms part of our larger programme to support the growth of the Western Cape tech sector and position the province as a leading digital hub.

To apply for the course go here.

Featured image (right to left): Western Cape MEC for Economic Development and Tourism David Maynier with the department’s deputy director-general Jo-Ann Johnston (Supplied)