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IBM expands start-up investment to SA

Johannesburg, 05 Sep 2012

Global computing giant IBM is starting its Global Entrepreneur Programme this week, and has extended it to next-generation entrepreneurs in SA for the first time.

The programme was established in 2010 and is aimed at converting tech start-ups to 'speed-ups' by providing coaching and connections to IBM clients and partners.

Start-ups that are privately held, have been in business for five years or less, and are actively engaged in developing a software-based product or service are being called on to sign-up for this global initiative.

“The Global Entrepreneur Programme is focused on helping early stage entrepreneurs to capture emerging business opportunities, especially in fast-growing industries such as energy, utilities, and telecommunications,” says Clayton Booysen, independent software vendor and developer relations lead for IBM SA.

SA is one of 10 additional markets, including Brazil, China, Mexico, Turkey, Spain and Germany, to join the Global Entrepreneur Programme and will host SmartCamps in October.

Since 2010, the IBM programme has helped launch more than 500 new businesses in areas such as green energy, healthcare and transportation. It helps these start-ups get to market faster and, at the same time, provides IBM clients with new technologies.

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