AWS South Africa supports black-owned tech firms via investment program

AWS South Africa is utilizing its Equity Equivalent Investment Program (EEIP) to accelerate the growth of black-owned technology businesses within the cloud market. The initiative focuses on providing small, cloud-native companies with essential resources, including AWS certifications, access to the AWS Partner Network, technical training, business coaching, and go-to-market planning.

Over the past six years, the program has supported 47 cloud-native companies. Beyond financial assistance, the EEIP aims to address challenges such as technical capability and market access. Participants have achieved high-level recognition, such as the AWS Golden Jackets, by earning all available AWS certifications.

James Hickman, country manager at AWS South Africa, stated that the program is designed to create lasting economic impact. Nomzamo Xaba, principal programme manager for B-BBEE at AWS South Africa, noted that the initiative seeks to build businesses that not only succeed but also positively impact their local communities.