EPF Tech Fund

From Validation to Scale: Phases 5 & 6

As the DSTI x EPF Venture Building Program advances, participating startups enter a critical stage focused on strengthening their solutions and unlocking new growth opportunities.

These phases are designed to refine and validate what has been built, ensuring ventures are market-ready while laying a strong foundation for sustainable expansion. Through rigorous quality assurance, strategic stakeholder engagement, and access to valuable ecosystem networks, startups are empowered to accelerate their journey toward commercial success.

By enhancing operational readiness, strengthening market positioning, and fostering meaningful partnerships, ventures are better equipped to scale their innovations, expand their impact, and drive long-term growth.

Together, we are transforming potential into progress and innovation into opportunity.

of Science, Technology and Innovation SA

Refined for Impact, Positioned for Growth.

The DSTI x EPF Venture Building Program is in a pivotal stage where innovation meets ex*****on, Phase 5 & 6.

Phase 5: Quality Control
Refining, testing, and validating solutions to ensure they are market ready.

Phase 6: Growth Enablement
Equipping startups with the strategies, networks, and opportunities needed to scale with confidence.

From building great products to building sustainable ventures, this is where promising innovations become investment-ready, impact-driven businesses.

Empire Partner Foundation Department of Science,Technology and Innovation SA

“Often described as the world’s most important gathering, the World Economic Forum in Davos brings together global leaders to shape the future.”

WEF brings together global business and political leaders to shape the future. Khiosk Founder Zuko Tisani shares how stepping into that space from South Africa House engagements to meeting the Head of WEF Africa is driving new momentum for his startup through the DSTI × EPF Venture Building Programme.

Catch the interview on Wednesday, 18 February, from 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM on 919 FM, or stream live at 919.co.za.

Don’t miss it. Hear Zuko’s story, fuel your ambition, and see how African innovation is conquering the global stage.

Department of Science,Technology and Innovation SA Empire Partner Foundation

We’re proud to introduce the Digital Service Agent (DSA), a township-based model designed to turn smartphones into income-generating tools.

Through the DSA programme, community members are empowered to sell digital products, support service delivery, and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

This initiative forms part of TDM’s commitment to youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and sustainable township development.

As we roll out the model, we look forward to collaborating with partners, communities, and stakeholders who share our vision of inclusive economic growth.

📍 Current focus: Kwa-Mashu, Durban

Together, we can build pathways to skills, income, and opportunity.

Apply here: https://lnkd.in/d3UQGXuE

The DSTI × EPF Venture Building startups are making waves on the global stage.

Khiosk is officially on the international radar as founder Zuko Tisani represents the startup in Switzerland at the World Economic Forum, engaging with ministerial leaders and global decision-makers. This marks a powerful step in Khiosk’s mission to empower small businesses and content creators, while re-wiring e-commerce through commerce in content. A true South African superpower.

In 2026, we continue turning up the heat, amplifying bold moves, global conversations, and the fearless ambition of startups building from Africa to the world.
Department of Science,Technology and Innovation SA Empire Partner Foundation