JSE and TIA Launch Programme to Investor-Ready South African Tech Startups

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), Africa’s largest bourse, has joined forces with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) to support 10 promising South African tech SMEs in becoming investment-ready. This 16-week pilot program aims to connect these companies with new markets and funding sources by providing access to capital market expertise and investor networks.

The initiative, launched September 30th, will focus on startups in high-growth sectors like healthtech, agritech, and fintech. Selected based on their commercial potential and existing traction, participants will receive guidance on investment readiness, pitch development, and market access strategies.

Building a Bridge to Formal Capital

The JSE’s SME Rise program—now extended into technology—will provide these startups with targeted support as they prepare to engage investors. While participation doesn’t guarantee listing or funding, the goal is to move companies closer to formal capital markets by developing investor-ready pitch materials and market linkages.

“One of our key challenges is ensuring that innovations reach commercialization,” explained Patrick Krappie, executive for innovation enabling at TIA. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our role as a connector between innovators and the resources they need.”

The JSE echoed this sentiment: “We’re expanding SME Rise to support technology sectors vital to economic growth—sectors where South Africa has clear competitive advantages,” said Vuyo Lee, chief marketing officer at the JSE.

Addressing Critical Needs in the Innovation Ecosystem

The program addresses a persistent gap in South Africa’s innovation landscape: helping technologies transition from development to market adoption. By providing early-stage support, the JSE and TIA aim to improve the chances of these businesses reaching scale—where they can create jobs, contribute to GDP, and compete globally.

SMEs currently account for 91% of formal businesses in South Africa, employing 60% of the workforce and contributing up to 34% of GDP. This initiative represents a strategic investment in one of the country’s most dynamic economic engines.